Assistant Director of Public Works

Job Description

Job Description

TOWN OF GROTON

Assistant Director of Public Works

Signing Bonus or Relocation (up to $5k for external candidates) available

POSITION RANGE : $99,395 - $139,153 / annum

ENTRY SALARY : Dependent on Qualifications

The Town of Groton, Connecticut seeks an experienced, proactive, and responsive leader who will support the overall direction and management of the Public Works Department. This position will have oversight and responsibility for the Public Work’s Department, with a direct focus on the Water Pollution Control Division, as well as Stormwater Management. While these will be the primary assignments, the position may assist in other Public Works functions and may fill in for the Director in their absence. The position will further develop the expectations and culture of the department and is accountable for ensuring that belonging and engagement are integrally tied to all actions and decisions in areas of responsibility. The Assistant Director of Public Works is a non-union, exempt, full-time position.

Groton is located on the shoreline in southeastern Connecticut and is home to a diverse community that celebrates inclusivity. The Town is active in economic development and diversification, and is conveniently located midway between New York and Boston. Groton boasts diverse educational options, historic sites, attractions, and outdoor spaces, for a balanced quality of life.

The Town of Groton is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity at all levels; it is committed to creating an environment of belonging and engagement for all employees, and encourages all individuals to apply.

The total rewards package for this position includes the following :

• Health and Dental Insurance
• Employer HSA contribution
• Traditional Pension, or 457 Defined Contribution, Retirement Plan
• Optional Deferred Compensation plans (Roth IRA or 457(b))
• Employer sponsored life insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Dependent Care FSA
• Wellness activities and resources
• Generous accrued leave time (Vacation and Sick)
• 13 Paid Holidays
• Professional Development Opportunities and Tuition reimbursement
• The Town is an eligible Public Service Loan Forgiveness employer

POSITION OVERVIEW :

Under the general direction of the Director of Public Works, this position is responsible for the overall administration and management of designated operational divisions within the Department of Public Works. Performs highly complex professional, technical and managerial work including operational and financial analysis. Specific responsibilities include long range planning, budget administration, personnel / labor relations and public relations. Has project management responsibilities within designated areas to include management information systems, capital improvement projects and regulatory compliance.

The primary focus will be on the management of the Public Work’s Department - Water Pollution Control Division, ensuring safety, permit compliance, best practices, service deliverables, and team member development are priorities. There will also be direct responsibility for the leadership and guidance of the Town’s Stormwater management practices and developments, particularly as they relate to the CT DEEP MS4 permit requirements. Oversees the planning, scheduling and organization of work in designated divisions, including the establishment and successful deliverance of operational priorities. The Assistant Director may serve as a project manager for short and long-term projects. Oversees the development of preventive maintenance and replacement schedules for facilities and equipment including specifications for the purchase of new equipment. Conducts financial and technical analysis and long-range planning for operational and capital improvements in designated divisions. Will develop, analyze, and present a variety of reporting data, with the ability to suggest and implement changes as needed. Will respond to citizen and stakeholder concerns and may represent the department at community meetings, and other interlocal partnerships. The position will occasionally attend off-hours meetings, and may be responsible to present to elected bodies, boards, commissions, and other partners.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS :

The required skills and knowledge would generally be acquired with a Master’s Degree with a minimum of eight (8) years’ experience related to the management of Public Works operations, including a minimum of four (4) years supervisory / administrative experience or a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering, with a minimum of ten (10) years’ experience related to the management of in Public Works operations, including four (4) years of supervisory / administrative experience. Experience managing in a union environment is preferred. A combination of education and experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the responsibilities of this position may be considered in lieu of stated education and experience requirements.

This position requires excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills. Strong organizational, administrative, and coordination skills are essential. The ability to successfully effectively manage, lead, motivate staff, and to engender a team approach, while supporting development as well as accountability for assigned functions, is key. Ability to exercise mature judgment, make responsible decisions in accordance with established policies and procedures, and meet deadlines. The ability to manage multiple projects in a dynamic environment, coupled with personal flexibility and commitment to continuous improvement, is a necessity. This position requires the incumbent present a consistently positive and professional image and an enthusiasm for collaborative approaches to accomplishing goals. Must be proficient with administrative software and Microsoft Office. Must possess strong knowledge of the current operating procedures, principles, and trends of municipal Public Works and Public Administration, and knowledge of municipal, state and federal statutes, ordinances, regulations and codes related to Public Works.

Criminal background, drug testing, and driving record checks required prior to employment.

CERTIFICATIONS / LICENSES :

Motor Vehicle Operator’s License is required. Licensure as a CT Professional Engineer preferred. CT Wastewater licensing desirable.

SELECTION PROCEDURE :

Review and screen of applications / resumes with best qualified candidates eligible for oral examination(s).

APPLICATION PROCEDURE :

Applications are available at the Human Resources Office, Groton Town Hall, 45 Fort Hill Road, Groton, CT 06340 or at www.groton-ct.gov. Applications must be returned to the Human Resources Office on or before October 30th, 2025 .

Individuals with disabilities who will need reasonable accommodation to complete the selection process should inform the Human Resources Office as soon as possible. Documentation supporting the need for this accommodation may be required.