Deputy Public Works Director

Colleton County is seeking a dedicated public servant to serve as our Deputy Public Works Director. The Deputy Public Works Director assists the Director in planning, organizing, directing, and overseeing daily operations and activities of the Public Works Department, including but not limited to: Roads & Bridges Department, Solid Waste Department, Animal Shelter and Animal Control, and the Mosquito Abatement Program. This position plays a key role in ensuring efficient service delivery, regulatory compliance, and operational effectiveness across multiple service areas. 

The ideal candidate is knowledgeable about county government operations, can assist in the management of day-to-day functions while identifying efficiencies to make process improvements. This position requires a collaborative leader who can work effectively with department heads, staff, elected officials, and the public. The Deputy Director serves as acting Director in their absence and supports the County’s mission to enhance quality of life through responsive and reliable public services. The Deputy Director reports directly to the Public Works Director.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assists the Director in providing leadership and operational oversight for all Public Works divisions to ensure efficient service delivery.
• Works with department heads and supervisors to implement departmental goals, policies, and procedures.
• Assists in the preparation and administration of departmental operating and capital budgets; monitors expenditures and identifies efficiencies.
• Supports the Director in advising County Administration on operational, infrastructure, and environmental matters.
• Responds to operational issues and citizen concerns ensuring timely resolution.
• Coordinates and assists with emergency response for storm damage, flooding, debris removal, and roadway hazards.
• In the event of a natural disaster or other declared emergency, this position is on-call and should be available for the duration of the emergency as directed. 
• Assists department heads to ensure compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations, including environmental and public health requirements.
• Supports implementation and enforcement of safety policies and risk management practices.
• Monitors program performance and recommend improvements to increase efficiency and effectiveness.
• Assists with maintaining records and preparing required reports, including operational and regulatory reporting.
• Coordinates with state agencies, municipalities, contractors, and community organizations as needed.
• May represent the County in public meetings, hearings, or community events regarding department-related matters.
• Acts on behalf of the Public Works Director in their absence, with delegated authority as assigned.
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Environmental Science, or a related field preferred. Five (5) to eight (8) years of progressively responsible experience, including at least four (4) years in a supervisory role or a combination of education and experience preferred. 
• Experience in public works operations, or any combination of Roads/Bridges, Solid Waste, Animal Shelter, Mosquito Abatement or a closely related county or local government operations preferred. 
• Experience overseeing multiple functional areas or divisions is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Working knowledge of public works operations, including roads, solid waste, and environmental services preferred. 
• Knowledge of applicable laws, regulations, and safety standards. 
• Strong leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, projects, and operational demands.
• Ability to assist with budgets, contracts, and capital projects.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to respond effectively in emergency and high-pressure situations.

Licenses and Certifications

• Valid state driver’s license.
• Any required state certifications related to landfill operations, mosquito control, or animal control (or ability to obtain within a reasonable specified time).

Working Conditions

• Combination of office-based work and frequent field visits to roads, landfill sites, animal shelter, and other facilities. 
• Exposure to outdoor conditions, heavy equipment, and potentially hazardous environments.
• Availability for after-hours emergencies, including nights, weekends, and holidays.