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ABOUT THE POSITION:

The Seasonal Maintenance Worker position performs a variety of entry-level and unskilled labor, maintenance and repair tasks in various public works operations, such as park maintenance, landscape maintenance, creek and catch basin maintenance, street maintenance, and janitorial and facility maintenance.  Weekend availability is at times required for picnic area prep, general park clean-up, etc.  

This is an excellent opportunity to gain insight and experience for a rewarding career in local government.  

Work Schedule:

• Planning to hire for start date in May 2026
• Work hours will not exceed 29 hours per week.
• Most hours will occur during maintenance operation hours: Saturday through Friday, 7:00 am – 3:30 pm.
• Evening hours are required for special events and will be scheduled accordingly.
• After-hours emergencies in the evening or on weekends may require availability.

Recruitment is open until filled.

Performs a variety of unskilled or semi-skilled maintenance work, and operates a variety of equipment in the construction, operation, repair, maintenance and replacement of Town water, sewer, street and storm drainage facilities and systems.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

Typical duties include but are not limited to:
•    Perform required labor involved in construction and maintenance projects as part of a crew, including pavement cutting, ditch digging, manhole and line cleaning, main and pipe repair, laying and backfilling.
•    Perform routine cleaning, inspection and preventive maintenance of equipment and refers defects or needed repairs to supervisor.
•    Performs all duties in conformance with appropriate safety and security standards.
•    Maintains Corporation Yard and other Town facilities.
•    Responds to residents' requests for service.
•    Maintains a variety of records relating to maintenance activity.
•    Assists in determining the locations of water, storm drain and sewer lines from the appropriate sources prior to excavation.
•    Drives trucks of various sizes and weights in the loading, hauling, and unloading of equipment and supplies.
•    Work in adverse weather conditions.

 

Possible 40 or more hours per week (Subject to change) up to total 960 hours of temporary employment.

Applications will be accepted for this position until Friday, April 17, 2026

Incomplete applications will not be accepted.

Resumes are not accepted in lieu of completing a City application.

Written Exam: Tuesday, May 12, 2026

Oral Exam: TBA

DEFINITION
Under general supervision, performs a variety of semi-skilled and skilled gardening and turf maintenance duties in the development, maintenance and repair of landscaped areas; and related work as required.

Groundskeeper Gardener I is the entry-level class and Groundskeeper Gardener II is the journey-level class in the series. Incumbents in the Groundskeeper Gardener I class will progressively perform most of the duties required in the Groundskeeper Gardener series but are not expected to function at the same skill level and will usually exercise less independent direction and judgement on matters related to work procedures and
methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established pattern that has been explained before the work is started. Generally, changes in procedures or exceptions are explained in detail as they arise. Under the flexible staffing concept, Groundskeeper Gardener II positions that may become vacant may reasonably be filled at the Groundskeeper Gardener I or Utility Maintenance Worker level for training purposes.

Positions in the Groundskeeper Gardener II class are flexibly staffed and normally filled by advancement from the Groundskeeper Gardener I class, or when filled from the outside, require prior specific experience in gardening and general grounds maintenance. Appointment to this class requires the employee to be performing substantially the full range of gardening and general grounds maintenance duties and to meet the qualification standards for the class. This class requires the ability to work independently exercising
judgement and initiative. Duties will normally require the ability to operate the full range of mechanical equipment related to gardening and general grounds maintenance.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES
Plant, cultivate, water, spray, and propagate plants, hedges, trees, flowers, and lawns and perform grounds maintenance work; operate hand and power machines; aids in keeping greenhouses and other structures in repair and free from plant diseases and pests; maintain equipment, tools, and supplies in proper condition and repair; do general laboring tasks related to grounds and garden maintenance work. Install, maintain, and
operate manual and automatic irrigation systems. Input and retrieve data and work orders from the computer system. May assist in supervising utility workers, temporary employees, court referrals and other subordinates.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of: Approved methods of planting, propagating and caring for hedges, ornamental trees, shrubs, lawns, and flowers; gardening materials, tools and equipment, and their use and care; the common plant diseases and insect pests and the approved methods and materials used in controlling and destroying them.

Ability to: Safely use hand and power gardening tools and perform heavy physical labor; follow oral and written directions; follow and abide by the City's Rules and Regulations of the Classified Service. Learn to use the computer system. Maintain an appropriate public service demeanor and positive customer service interactions. Interact positively and cooperate with co-workers, respond politely to customers, work as a team member, function under demanding time pressure, respond in a positive manner to supervision, and attend work and perform duties on a regular and consistent basis.

Physical capability to: Perform sustained, strenuous manual labor; climb, lift, crawl, stoop and bend to reach work; may work outdoors in temperature extremes and inclement weather.

Experience:

• Groundskeeper Gardener I, entry level: one (1) year, full-time, paid experience in construction, maintenance or other semi-skilled, physical work.
• Groundskeeper Gardener II: two (2) years of full-time experience in gardening and general grounds maintenance work.

Education:

• Groundskeeper Gardener I, entry level: completion of the tenth grade. Graduation from high school or the equivalent is desirable and required to advance to Level II in the classification series.
• Groundskeeper Gardener II: A high school diploma or the equivalent.

License:

• Possession of a valid, Class C California Driver's License.
• Groundskeeper Gardener II: A current Qualified Applicator Certificate is desirable.

Welcome to the City of Pacifica!

We invite you to apply for the position of BUILDING MAINTENANCE SPECIALIST

COME AND JOIN OUR TEAM!

The City of Pacifica's Public Works Department is recruiting for a Building Maintenance Specialist. This is a full-time position with benefits and a compensation schedule range of $6529- $7,755 per month. This position works a 9/80 schedule, with every other Friday off. This position is included in a bargaining unit under Teamsters MISC Local No. 856.

DEFINITION

Under general supervision, to perform skilled carpentry, plumbing, mechanical and electrical work involving rough and finished construction, installation, and repair work

 

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is the skilled level class in the building maintenance series.

 

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receive general supervision from higher-level staff.

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS - INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO THE FOLLOWING:

• Operates woodworking machinery such as sanders, planers, and power saws in the construction of cabinets, shelves, stairways, and other wooden articles or structures;
• Hangs doors and installs wooden sashes;
• Lays finished flooring;
• Instels, remodels, repairs and maintains electric, HVAC, wiring and plumbing systems, furniture, roofs, and other general repairds to buildings;
• Installs wall board;
• Prepares walls for plastering and refinishing;
• Maintains and services carpentry equipment and tools;
• Repairs small motors, heaters, boilers, and broken water lines; may do occasional general public works construction and maintenance work.
• Perform related duties and responsibilities as required and other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of

• Materials and methods used in both rough and finished carpentry and most other areas of the construction field;
• Plumbing maintenance, installation, and finishing

 

Skill/Ability to

• Prepare rough sketches of work and estimates of materials and labor;
• Read blueprints and work according to plans and specifications;
• Carry out oral and written directions;
• Use and operate mechanical tools; ;
• Work with others.

 

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way of qualifying is:

Experience: Two years of progressively responsible experience performing public works building maintenance duties

Substitution: Completion of an accredited apprenticeship in the construction field or may substitute for two years.

Training: Graduation from high school and

LICENSE

Ability to drive and possess a valid California driver’s license.  May be required to qualify for and obtain a Class A or Class B driver’s license and be subject to random drug and alcohol testing under the Department of Transportation regulations. 

 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

 

Physical Skills: Able to sit, stand, walk (on uneven surfaces), kneel, crouch, bend, stoop, squat, crawl, twist, and climb; lift and carry 75 pounds; dexterity to drive trucks and large vehicles; distinguish among various colors; distinguish various computer generated auditory signals; use common hand and power tools; vision to read printed materials, a computer screen, and to test equipment in varied field settings; hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone.

 

Working Environment: Work in a shop and field setting; exposure to inclement weather, cold, heat, noise, outdoors, dust, dirt, vibration, chemicals, traffic, traffic hazards, confining workspace, mechanical hazards, electrical hazards, and explosive hazards.

 

May work protracted and irregular hours; take 24-hour call and stand-by; available for evening meetings; available for unusual hours in emergencies.

 

APPLY TODAY!!! 

At the City of Pacifica, we are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. All aspects of employment will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. To us, equal opportunity employment is not just about compliance, it’s about who you are, how you can help our City and who you want to be. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and community members.

Applications are being accepted for the position of Maintenance Services Supervisor (Building Maintenance) with the City of South San Francisco in the Parks & Recreation Department. 

APPLICATION DEADLINE: TUESDAY, APRIL 14, 2026 OR UPON RECEIPT OF THE FIRST 100 ONLINE APPLICATIONS, WHICHEVER OCCURS FIRST.

THE CITY OFFERS AN ATTRACTIVE BENEFIT PACKAGE, AS WELL AS CALPERS RETIREMENT PLAN AND SOCIAL SECURITY PARTICIPATION.

The Department

The Parks and Recreation Department mission is to provide opportunities for physical, cultural and social well-being; protect and enhance the physical environment; and ensure the effective and efficient use of public facilities and open space. The Parks and Recreation Department is organized by program area, with each program administered by a supervisor, coordinator, or specialist. 

The Building Maintenance Division’s scope of duties includes, but is not limited to the following:

• Provides janitorial, preventative maintenance services, and necessary building and related equipment repairs to all of the City’s facilities, including interior and exterior work.
• Builds and/or installs items involving finish carpentry, painting, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, and other skilled crafts work.
• Manages contracts with vendors maintaining, repairing and upgrading building systems.
• Responds to emergency facility-related issues.
• Plans and executes minor maintenance projects, including tenant improvements, building system and energy efficiency projects, facility repairs and capital upgrades.
• Advises and supports the delivery of capital improvement projects.
• Maintains service records and time logs.
• Supports facilities for meetings and other special events.             

Description

The Department of Public Works is seeking well-qualified candidates for the position of Wastewater Collection Supervisor.
 
The Wastewater Collection Supervisor serves as first-line working supervisor, having responsibility for overseeing a crew of Wastewater Collection Workers in the operation and maintenance of sanitary sewer facilities of the ten County-owned sewer maintenance and sanitation districts. The Supervisor will coordinate, direct, and participate in the activities of the crew and administrative staff; utilize the computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) for scheduling work and indicating work that has been completed; operate a variety of light construction equipment and wastewater collection system maintenance equipment; and perform related duties as assigned.
 
The ideal candidate for this position will have at least two years of experience leading or supervising a crew of workers and laborers performing sanitary sewer maintenance work.
   
 The ideal candidate will also have the following:

• Knowledge of and demonstrated experience with practices, procedures, materials, tools, and equipment used in the operation, maintenance, and repair of sanitary sewer facilities 
• Experience in conducting sanitary sewer system inspections (sewer laterals and mainlines) and preparing related reports
• Ability to organize office work, manage day-to-day tasks, and interpret and implement instructions, policies, and procedures
• Knowledge and experience with computerized maintenance management systems
• Familiarity with GIS
• Knowledge of safety protocols and procedures and the ability to champion and inspire employee safety
• Strong computer skills and aptitude for learning new technologies
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.  
• Ability to recognize and evaluate operational issues and problems and recommend and implement efficiency and productivity improvements
• Ability to understand, evaluate, and track system issues or problems that can be corrected by specific actions (additional maintenance, repairs, customer education, etc.)
• Demonstrated experience providing excellent customer service in a professional and courteous manner 
• Ability to perform well under pressure and in stressful situations 
• Demonstrated ability to read and interpret drawings, engineering plans, and regional maps 
• Experience working independently in the field and office and managing workload in an organized manner 
• Skill in communicating effectively orally and in writing and working professionally with the public and co-workers 
• Certification by the National Association of Sewer Service Companies (NASSCO)
• Proficient in using computers, electronic devices, and standard business software applications, including CMMS and asset management systems.

 

Examples Of Duties

 

Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Plan, organize, coordinate, direct and participate in the operation and maintenance of sanitary sewer systems.
• Supervise, train, evaluate and instruct subordinate personnel.
• Investigate, respond to, and resolve customer complaints and prepare reports of findings and actions taken.
• Perform field inspections associated with sewer district projects or sewer inspection permits.
• Read and interpret engineering and construction plans and specifications.
• Review crew’s completed work assignments, such as sanitary sewer overflow (SSO) reports, work order and service request documents, CCTV inspection reports, etc., to ensure information required is complete and accurate. May enter details into California Integrated Water Quality System (CIWQS).
• Administer County and Department safety programs and policies by ensuring employees' compliance with safety practices and procedures.
• Prepare performance evaluations and address performance issues with crew members.
• Participate in an "on-call" rotation and be available to assist for work in emergencies outside of normal working hours.
• Perform related duties as assigned. 

 

Qualifications

QUALIFICATIONS
Licensure/Certification:

• Possession of a Class B California driver license with both air brake and tank endorsement; AND
• Possession of a Grade III Collection System Maintenance Certification through the California Water Environment Association’s (CWEA) Technical Certification Program.

 
Education and Experience:
Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities is qualifying.  A typical way to qualify is:

• Four years of experience in road maintenance and construction work, including two years of experience with sanitary sewer collection and water distribution systems.

Knowledge of:

• Supervisory principles and practices, including work planning, scheduling, employee training and evaluation
• Practices, procedures, materials, tools, and equipment used in the operation and maintenance of sanitary sewer and storm drain systems
• Safety practices relating to public works projects
• Basic arithmetic
• Volume, weights, and measures
• The proper use of hand tools including shovels, rakes, hoes, etc.
• The proper use of power tools and light equipment including power saws, drills, air powered tools, portable and stationary pumps, generators, compressors, vibratory rollers, motorized tampers, etc.
• County and CAL OSHA safety rules, procedures, and equipment

Skill/Ability to:

• Foster teamwork and service excellence through example
• Organize, plan, outline, and coordinate work for the crew
• Supervise, train, evaluate, and instruct subordinate personnel
• Use initiative to analyze and solve problems
• Read and interpret simple plans and specifications
• Enforce common safety practices and procedures
• Effectively communicate verbally and in writing
• Prepare clear and comprehensive reports
• Work with basic arithmetic computations
• Operate a variety of light construction equipment and wastewater system maintenance equipment, which may include combination truck (Vactor), flusher truck, rodder truck, dump truck, closed circuit television inspection vehicle and equipment, and vacuum pumps
• Perform heavy manual labor, which requires strength, agility, and endurance
• Operate a wide variety of hand and power tools and equipment
• Drive and operate ½- and 1-ton trucks, haul-behind compressor, and walk-behind rollers
• Work courteously and effectively with the public and with co-workers
• Follow oral and written instructions
• Bend, stand, and walk for extended periods of time
• Lift and carry heavy equipment and supplies used in the course of the work, such as jackhammers, pumps, piping, and paving materials

 

Application/Examination

 

Open & Promotional. Anyone may apply.  Current County of San Mateo and County of San Mateo Superior Court of California employees with at least six months (1040 hours) of continuous service in a classified regular, probationary, or extra-help/limited term position prior to the final filing date will receive five points added to their final passing score on this examination.

The examination process will consist of an application screening (weight: Pass/Fail) based on the candidates' application and responses to the supplemental questions. Candidates who pass the application screening will be invited to a panel interview (weight: 100%). Depending on the number of applicants, an application appraisal of education and experience may be used in place of other examinations or further evaluation of work experience may be conducted to group applicants by level of qualification. All applicants who meet the minimum qualifications are not guaranteed advancement through any subsequent phase of the examination. All examinations will be given in San Mateo County, California and applicants must participate at their own expense. 

IMPORTANT: Applications for this position will only be accepted online. If you are currently on the County's website, you may click the "Apply" button. If you are not on the County's website, please go to https://jobs.smcgov.org/ to apply. Responses to the supplemental questions must be submitted in addition to our regular employment application form. A resume will not be accepted as a substitute for the required employment application and supplemental questionnaire.

Tentative Recruitment Schedule
Final Filing Date: Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at 11:59 PM
Application Screening: Wednesday, April 15, 2026
Civil Service Panel Interview: Wednesday, April 29, 2026
 

About the County
San Mateo County is centrally located between San Francisco, San Jose, and the East Bay. With over 750,000 residents, San Mateo is one of the largest and most diverse counties in California and serves a multitude of culturally, ethnically, and linguistically diverse communities.

The County of San Mateo, as an employer, is committed to advancing equity to ensure that all employees are welcomed in a safe and inclusive environment. The County seeks to hire, support, and retain employees who reflect our diverse community. We encourage applicants with diverse backgrounds and lived experiences to apply. Eighty percent of employees surveyed stated that they would recommend the County as a great place to work.

 

The County of San Mateo is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion at all levels.

 
Talent Acquisition Analyst: Sarah Huynh (032426) (Wastewater Collection Worker/N065B)

Position Summary

 

Under the general direction of the Fleet and Facilities Manager, this position is responsible for planning, assigning, supervising, training, and assisting mechanics in the routine preventive maintenance, inspection, diagnosis, and repair of structural, mechanical, and electrical systems at Bus Transit facilities. This includes overseeing shop equipment, automated fueling systems, revenue fare collection equipment, passenger amenities, and signage.

The Chief Mechanic - Building Maintenance is a working position that combines the duties of the Mechanic - Building Maintenance classification with skilled supervisory responsibilities. These include supervising work crews, scheduling tasks, managing projects, and providing training and mentorship to subordinate employees. Additionally, the position is accountable for generating detailed written and electronic reports on facility and equipment conditions, documenting maintenance and repairs performed, and outlining ongoing maintenance needs.

 

Essential Responsibilities

 

• Plans, supervises and participates in work assignments for all employees supervised
• Evaluates job performance and knowledge, skills and abilities (KSA) of all employees being supervised.
• Provides training, mentoring and feedback to personnel
• Issues 2nd level of progressive discipline, counseling, and written letters of reprimand to employees supervised. This position will not be responsible for administering discipline at subsequent levels.
• Interprets and enforces District rules, regulations, and policies
• Assures proper completion of job assignments with minimum expense and maximum productivity 
• Certifies records of work in progress and completed, including timecards, material requisitions, maintenance records and equipment counts when required.
• Collaborates closely with supervisors of oncoming and off going shifts to assure maximum daily productivity and continuity of work
• Monitors employee attendance and adherence to arrival, break and departure times
• Assures security and safety of premises and work.  

• Assists in developing and performs ongoing monitoring of key performance measures to ensure departmental goals are consistently achieved
• Performs quality control inspections to ensure all repairs meet or exceed regulatory requirements and internal safety and reliability standards
• Schedules facilities and equipment routine maintenance and ensures all inspections and preventive maintenance activities are performed on time and in a timely and satisfactory manner
• Monitors condition of facilities, passenger terminals and equipment. Directs preventive and corrective maintenance activities to maximize asset life and minimize maintenance expenditures   
• Coordinates and directs special projects and campaigns as required
• Coordinates with stores personnel to ensure adequate materials and supplies are available to complete ongoing and scheduled work
• Responsible for cleaning and safe housekeeping in work areas
• Ensures that occupational health and safety practices and procedures are strictly followed
• Refers any problems to Fleet and Facilities Manager, recommending action required
• Opens and closes work orders in Maximo and enters all pertinent information
• Performs other computerized recordkeeping as required
• Inspects, maintains and repairs all facilities mechanical systems including, but not limited to, bus washers, HVAC systems, electrical systems, lighting, plumbing, automatic and roll-up doors, waste oil and wastewater systems 
• Inspects, maintains and repairs shop equipment such as air compressors, generators, welders, fuel and lube oil delivery systems, hydraulic jacks and lifts, steam cleaners, pressure washers and pneumatic tools and other miscellaneous equipment. 
• Performs additional related duties as assigned
• Regular and reliable attendance and performance are required

The City of San Mateo Public Works Department is Looking for a

Wastewater Treatment Plant Electrical Technician

The Department

The Public Works Department’s Environmental Services Division (ESD) is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the City’s 15.7 million gallon per day (MGD) conventional activated sludge wastewater treatment plant (WWTP). The WWTP serves a population of more than 140,000 with an annual operating budget in excess of $15 million and has a staff of 28 professional and technical personnel. Upgrades currently in progress to the WWTP include new liquids treatment process facilities consisting of new headworks, primary treatment, and biological nutrient removal/membrane bioreactor (BNR/MBR) process.  When you join the Public Works Department, you will work among collaborative and energetic colleagues who share a passion for serving our San Mateo citizens and improving the community in which we live and work. Our team is comprised of individuals with diverse talents and experience in various fields.  We will provide you with a wide range of opportunities in a team-based collaborative environment while helping you achieve your professional goals.

Collaboration, Innovation, Respect, Creativity, Transparency and Informed Risk-taking are attributes within the City’s mission, values and organizational principles that we are seeking in the candidates.

Look to some of the reasons why the City of San Mateo is a great place to work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_GTIzeSpc_g

The Position

• Install, maintain, repair and research a variety of supervisory controls and replacement electrical components that are part of advanced wastewater treatment processes such as aeration, filtration, disinfection and dichlorination, sludge dewatering, odor control, and an environmental laboratory.
• Perform wiring required for the installation of electronic equipment; electrical conductors in conduits; splice high and low voltage cables utilizing hand taping and pre- molded splice kits.
• Design, install, maintain, repair, test and construct electrical assemblies.
• Troubleshoot plant electrical systems, controls and related process equipment. Provide technical support for other work groups within Public Works.
• Specify, install, program, and repair various types of variable frequency motor drive systems.
• Fabricate, maintain, install, service, and calculate power load distributions to various motors and related equipment.
• Install and repair programmable logic controllers and install related hardware and software for control systems in conjunction with controls technician.
• Maintain and repair automatic control valves and associated control functions.
• Implement preventive maintenance and repair on motors from fractional to over 400 horsepower. Record and calculate current requirements for new electrical installations.
• Troubleshoot, perform inspections, preventive maintenance and repairs on industrial switchgear and high voltage equipment such as transformers, breakers, circuits, switches, relays, regulators and distribution panels.
• Specify, install, and inspect various types of conduit; isolate breakers and switches for major repairs; coordinate repairs and scheduled outages with operations staff.
• Conduct surveys to gather field data.
• Use aerial lifts, scaffolding and ladders.
• Prepare requisitions and associated documents for purchase of repair parts and supplies.
• Maintain accurate records of work performed, materials used, and associated costs.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

The WWTP Electrical Technician receives general supervision from the WWTP Maintenance Superintendent or higher level personnel and exercises technical and functional supervision over assigned technical and maintenance personnel.

For a complete list of duties, reference our job specifications at https://www.cityofsanmateo.org/DocumentCenter/Index/86

The City of Berkeley invites dynamic, forward-thinking public works professionals to apply for the role of Director of Public Works and join a city known for innovation, civic engagement, and progressive leadership. This is an exceptional opportunity to lead essential citywide services, shape long-term infrastructure investments, and help advance Berkeley’s commitment to sustainability, mobility, and community well-being. We are looking for a collaborative, people-centered leader committed to strengthening public infrastructure, supporting equity, and delivering high-quality services for all residents.

 

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS

Annual Salary 

$201,678.46 - $294,945.87 (Current)

$206,720.28 - $302,319.42 (July 2026)

$210,854.80 - $308,465.73 (January 2027)

 

Famous worldwide as a center of academic achievement, scientific innovation, free speech, and the arts, the City of Berkeley is bordered by San Francisco Bay to the west and rolling hills to the east. The City is known for its abundant green space, mild weather, and rich cultural life. Berkeley’s international shopping districts, outstanding restaurants, cutting-edge environmental organizations, art galleries, theaters, museums, Berkeley City College, and the University of California, Berkeley all contribute to its uniquely diverse and vibrant atmosphere. With more than 50 public parks, miles of bike lanes and walking trails, and a public marina, Berkeley offers exceptional opportunities for year-round outdoor recreation.

The City is governed by a Mayor elected at-large and eight Councilmembers elected by district. The City Council appoints the City Manager, who oversees City operations. Under the Berkeley Charter, the Director of Public Works is appointed by the City Manager with the affirmative vote of five Councilmembers and reports to the Deputy City Manager.

Berkeley is also advised by 40 boards and commissions made up of community members and stakeholders who help guide policy and protect the quality of life for all Berkeley residents. Public Works staff provide direct support to the Transportation Infrastructure, Disability Advisory, Zero Waste, and Safe Streets Oversight Commissions.

 

THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

Public Works is the largest department in the City and provides essential services to the community every day. Its mission is to deliver high-quality services with pride, courtesy, and excellence. By developing and offering efficient, cost-effective services in partnership with residents, the Department strives to help Berkeley remain a leading city known for outstanding Public Works services.

Key Strategic Initiatives 

Key Strategic Initiatives: During the next 24 to 36 months, Public Works has several large initiatives underway to improve organizational performance and further advance community goals. The Zero Waste Strategic Plan and accompanying Five Year rate implementation will be key to funding new programs and infrastructure needed to achieve Berkeley’s waste diversion goals. The Bike Plan, Pedestrian Plan, and Vision Zero Plans are scheduled for large scale updates and public processes to define the traffic safety and infrastructure priorities of the future. Finally, an update of the goBerkeley Parking Program is underway to re-evaluate parking demand and transit uses to continue to drive effective curb management of metered parking and reduce emissions through improved programs.

Division Overviews

Refuse & Recycling – Berkeley has a long-standing commitment to reducing and ultimately eliminating landfill waste. The City established one of the nation’s first municipal recycling programs and, in 2019, adopted one of California’s most comprehensive ordinances regulating single-use foodware and litter. Berkeley operates its own transfer station and waste-collection franchise—an uncommon model in the region. Given its commitment to waste diversion, Berkeley is one of the few municipalities in the region that has its own City-owned transfer station and waste collection franchise operations. 

Streets & Utilities – Includes street maintenance, sewer maintenance, the Clean City Program which is responsible for illegal dumping collection, litter collection, encampment support, street sweeping).

Facilities Management – Responsibilities include electrical maintenance and Radio Shop; building maintenance and janitorial services; and property management support. This Division maintains public service facilities, traffic signals and pedestrian control devices, and streetlights. 

Public Works Administration – Leading, integrating and supporting departmental services, the administrative division provides strategic planning and policy formulation, budget administration, human resources management, payroll processing, coordination of legislative issues, and management of information systems.

Engineering & Capital Infrastructure – Under the leadership and technical guidance by the Engineering Manager/City Engineer Sidewalk Program, Sanitary Sewer Program, Pavement Rehabilitation Program, Storm Water, Utilities, Land Use Permitting, and Facilities Capital Renovations. In 2016 Berkeley voters passed the $100 million T1 infrastructure bond. There are more than $40 million in capital projects currently underway. In addition, in 2024, Berkeley voters approved Measure FF, which is a parcel that tax that is estimated to generate $15 million per year for the City to make repairs to streets, sidewalks, and pedestrian paths.

Transportation Division – The Transportation Division oversees citywide transportation planning, traffic engineering, parking, bicycle and pedestrian planning, and alternative transportation programs. In partnership with neighborhood organizations, community groups, and local business associations, the Transportation Division develops short- and long-range policy recommendations and directs program implementation to support a safe, efficient transportation environment in Berkeley.

 

THE PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR

The Director of Public Works is responsible for leading the operations, planning, administration, financial management, and intergovernmental relations associated with all Public Works activities, including:

-Directing the operations of the Department which include streets and sanitation, engineering, traffic engineering, facilities maintenance, equipment maintenance, and solid waste management, collection and disposal; performs related work as required.

-Planning and administering all aspects of the following: streets and sanitation, including construction and maintenance of streets, sidewalks, storm drains, and lateral sewer lines; facilities maintenance for City buildings and grounds, and installation and repair of electrical facilities such as street lighting, police and fire alarm, and communications systems; equipment maintenance for police and fire vehicles, solid waste trucks, construction equipment, fleet vehicles and other motorized equipment.

-Overseeing operations management including solid waste collection and the long-range planning of environmentally sound solid waste collection, recycling, and disposal which meets with community standards; the planning, design, installation and maintenance of traffic signs, signals and markings; and engineering design and inspection.

-Assuming direct responsibility for dealing with complex matters involving policy, administration and operations. This position requires considerable public partnership with citizen groups, boards, commissions, other governmental agencies, and other City departments and officials.

 

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

The ideal candidate is a strong leader and an effective communicator with broad public works experience. Because this role interacts with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders - including commissions and community interest groups - exceptional interpersonal skills are essential. The successful candidate will bring strong management, financial, and political acumen to lead a large, complex department with extensive capital projects and contracts. They will have a passion for public service in an engaged and progressive community; a vision for expanded, energy-efficient capital investments; and a commitment to safe, low-stress, multimodal streets. They will also understand the culture of a large municipal public works agency and demonstrate the ability to lead and communicate with diverse professional and skilled-labor teams. 

 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Equivalent to graduation from an accredited college with a degree in civil engineering, architecture, planning, public administration, or a closely related field. Six years of professional experience in the field of public works, planning, or high-level project management. A minimum of four years of this experience must have involved high-level management of a variety of programs and demonstrated success in supervising a sizable professional and administrative staff involving policy information, program planning, development and implementation. An advanced degree may be substituted for the non-supervisory experience on a year-for-year basis, for up to two years of the required experience.

 

APPLICATION PROCESS

Applications must be received by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, April 6, 2026. To be considered for this opportunity, please submit your application, résumé, and cover letter by clicking the "Apply" button. For further information about this opportunity, please contact Human Resources Manager, Monica Walker, at 510-981-6818.

The City of Newark is seeking an Urban Forest Supervisor for the Public Works Department. The Urban Forest Supervisor leads the City’s forestry and landscape maintenance programs. This role blends strategic planning, technical expertise in tree health, and hands-on project management to ensure a safe and well-maintained urban environment.

EXAMPLE OF DUTIES

• Participates in the preparation of the operating budget for the landscape and tree program; participates in the forecasting of additional funds needed for materials and supplies and gathers cost estimates as directed. 
• Provides skilled and technical direction on care, maintenance, disease prevention, and removal of trees; plans inspection and maintenance of all trees in appropriate cycles; assigns priorities and special projects as needed.  
• Inspects work sites before, during and after completion of work to assure that required work is completed in a satisfactory and thorough manner; inspects work sites, equipment and tools for compliance with safety standards; and inspects and approves work done by outside contractors. 

EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING

Any combination of education and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

• Possession of a high school diploma or equivalent, and four (4) years of increasingly responsible experience in landscape and tree maintenance, including two (2) years of lead responsibility or other qualifying higher level public works maintenance experience.

Licenses and Certifications

• Possession of a Qualified Applicator Certificate issued by the State of California.
• Possession of certificate as a Certified Arborist from the International Society of Arboriculture.
• Possession of a valid driver's license and a satisfactory driving record throughout employment.