Director of Public Works

As the 8^th largest municipality in the province, The Town of Portugal Cove – St. Philip’s is seeking a full-time Director for the Public Works and Infrastructure Department. This position will report to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) and be a key member of the Town’s senior management team providing strategic leadership, operational oversight, and expert guidance in the planning, delivery, and continuous improvement of Public Works services.

Job Overview

The Director is accountable for the effective stewardship of the Town’s core infrastructure, municipal facilities, equipment, and public works programs, including drinking water distribution, sanitary and storm sewer systems, solid waste collection, road maintenance, snow clearing, and animal control. The role ensures services are delivered safely, efficiently, and in compliance with all relevant legislation, regulations, and Town policies, while optimizing resources and supporting long-term asset management.

The Director also collaborates extensively across departments to coordinate shared infrastructure and advance integrated service delivery.

The Director will play an active role in building trust and positive relationships with residents and Council through open, transparent, and reliable communication. This role extends beyond departmental oversight and requires responding to public inquiries and concerns in a timely and courteous manner, communicating service disruptions and operational challenges, providing clear information about municipal projects and services, and ensuring that residents’ concerns are appropriately addressed and followed through. The Director will lead by example, establish clear expectations for staff, and promote a customer-focused approach throughout all levels of the department.

Key Responsibilities Include (but not limited to)

• Ensure that critical infrastructure and services are maintained to support the Town’s emergency response capabilities and community resilience.
• Collaborate with the Human Resources/OHS function to ensure Public Works operations align with safety initiatives, compliance requirements, and hazard prevention strategies.
• Serve as a representative of the Town on committees and during intergovernmental discussions.
• Prepare and monitor department budgets, capital plans, and operational expenditures.
• Identify opportunities for cost efficiencies and service improvements as it relates to Public Works activities.
• Provide strategic advice and recommendations to Council and the CAO on policies, procedures, infrastructure planning, and long-term asset management, while ensuring alignment with Town bylaws and all applicable legislation.
• Oversee the development and maintenance of records, reports, policies, and procedures related to Public Works functions.
• Perform other related duties, responsibilities, and special projects as assigned by the CAO.

Qualifications & Skills

• Degree or diploma in Civil Engineering, Business, or Project Management or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Minimum 5-8 years leadership experience in a comparable field, ideally in a municipal environment.
  • Extensive knowledge of Public Works operations, infrastructure management, and municipal regulations.
  • Demonstrated leadership, negotiation, and people management skills, with the ability to plan, supervise, and evaluate staff and contractors while exercising sound judgment and discretion.
  • Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving abilities, with high standards of ethics and professionalism, and confidence representing the Town in public and stakeholder engagements.
  • Proficient in office software, records management, and reporting systems.
  • Valid Class 5 Driver’s License with an acceptable driving record.
  • Equivalencies in education and experience will be considered.

Salary

Salary is based on the successful candidate’s experience and qualifications.

To Apply

As posted, the deadline for applications is November 20, 2026, at 4:30pm. Please submit your resume no later than this date to be considered as a candidate.

Please submit your resume and cover letter to:

Public Works Employment Opportunity

Town of Portugal Cove – St. Philip’s

1119 Thorburn Road, Portugal Cove – St. Philip’s A1M 1T6

Fax: (709)895-3780

OR

Email: [email protected]

*If you are submitting via email, please use the subject line PCSP Public Works Director.