Are you a results-driven leader ready to manage complex public works operations and lead a diverse team? Palm Bay is hiring its next Public Works Director! Palm Bay is a vibrant, fast-growing city covering 88 square miles—the largest in Brevard County and second largest in Central Florida, after Orlando. Known for its family-friendly vibe and strong community spirit, Palm Bay’s economy is fueled by manufacturing, engineering, and professional services, with major employers like L3Harris, Renesas Electronics, and Raytheon Technologies.
Palm Bay’s Public Works Department delivers vital services including roadway maintenance, stormwater management, traffic operations, engineering, surveying, and fleet management. The department also leads capital improvement projects and ensures permitting and compliance to support a safe, efficient, and sustainable infrastructure.
The ideal candidate for Public Works Director will be a seasoned professional with a proven track record in managing complex municipal operations, including engineering, transportation, stormwater systems, and capital improvement projects. A collaborative and approachable leader, they will prioritize open communication, foster team cohesion, and inspire trust throughout the department. With strong decision-making skills and emotional intelligence, they will navigate challenges with confidence and clarity. Technically adept in strategic planning, budgeting, and regulatory compliance, this individual will bring hands-on expertise in core public works functions like fleet, traffic, and engineering services. Committed to innovation and operational excellence, the ideal candidate will promote staff development, drive efficiency, and embrace forward-thinking approaches. Through interagency collaboration and strategic planning, they will help guide Palm Bay’s infrastructure growth and support its long-term community vision.
Required qualifications include:
• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Business Management, Public Administration, or a related field; an Associate’s degree combined with relevant experience may also be considered.
• Eight (8) years of progressively responsible experience in Public Works or a related field.
• Minimum of two (2) years in a supervisory or leadership role.
• Valid Florida Driver’s License and acceptable driving record, or have the ability to obtain a Florida Driver’s License.
Preferred qualifications include:
• Master’s degree in Civil Engineering, Business Management, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Professional Engineer (P.E.) registration in the State of Florida (preferred but not required).
• Experience overseeing large-scale capital improvement projects, municipal infrastructure planning, and multi-division operations within a public sector setting.
• Experience reporting directly to a City Manager or Deputy City Manager.
The salary range for this position is $114,039 to $188,165 DOE/DOQ.
For more information, contact: