Job Description

Position Type:

Full-time

Work Location:

In person - Apache, Oklahoma

Interviews:

Will be held

on or after January 6, 2026

. This is

not an immediate hire

.

Job Overview

The Town of Apache is seeking an experienced, forward-thinking

Public Works Director

to oversee and manage the community's essential services, including

Water/Sewer, Streets, Sanitation, and Parks

. This leadership role is responsible for supervising staff, managing departmental budgets, coordinating daily operations, ensuring regulatory compliance, and maintaining the infrastructure that supports the quality of life for Apache residents.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on manager who can work in the trenches when needed, provide strategic direction, and maintain high operational standards across all Public Works functions.

A

Class B or higher Water License

is

required

, along with proven experience in municipal utilities or public works operations.

Key Responsibilities Public Works Leadership & Management

Oversee all divisions: Water/Sewer, Streets, Sanitation, Parks, and Cemetery. Supervise staff, assign work schedules, provide training, and ensure accountability. Develop and manage budgets for all Public Works departments. Create work plans for preventive maintenance, operations, and capital projects. Ensure compliance with Town ordinances and all Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) regulations. Maintain accurate reports, operational logs, and project documentation. Coordinate with Town leadership on infrastructure planning and community needs. Respond to emergencies and lead teams during after-hours incidents when required.

Water/Wastewater System Oversight

Manage and perform water service connections, leak repairs, meter installations, and water line maintenance. Oversee daily operations of water wells, sewer systems, pump stations, and monthly sampling. Ensure timely reporting of meter readings and system issues. Supervise installation and maintenance of water and sewer mains, manholes, and system infrastructure. Operate equipment such as backhoes and excavation machinery as needed. Maintain lagoon areas, well houses, and related water system facilities.

Streets, Parks, Sanitation & Cemetery Oversight

Oversee maintenance and repair of streets, alleys, culverts, storm drains, and asphalt work. Ensure parks, ballfields, splash pads, playgrounds, and public grounds are maintained to Town standards. Provide supervision for sanitation operations and scheduling. Direct cemetery care, including mowing, debris cleanup, and assisting with grave opening/closing when necessary. Operate and oversee machinery including mowers, tractors, dump trucks, chainsaws, and other equipment.

Required Qualifications

Class B or higher Water License (required).

Municipal Public Works, utilities, or infrastructure management experience. High School Diploma or GED equivalent. Valid Driver's License. Ability to pass background check and drug test. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills. Ability to perform and supervise labor-intensive outdoor work in all weather conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience operating heavy equipment and maintenance machinery. DEQ Water/Wastewater certifications beyond Class B. Prior supervisory or director-level experience in public works or municipal utilities.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Ability to safely and efficiently operate Town equipment. Skilled in planning, reporting, and prioritizing departmental operations. Ability to interpret and follow oral and written instructions. Understanding of safety standards and regulatory expectations. Professionalism, teamwork, and willingness to support all departments as needed.

Working Conditions

Outdoor work in extreme heat, cold, wet, muddy, or otherwise challenging environments. Exposure to sewer systems, pump stations, and other confined or dirty areas. May require working after hours, weekends, or holidays during emergencies or special needs.

Compensation

Pay is

dependent on experience and education level

.

Schedule

Full-time, 40 hours per week 8-10 hour shifts depending on departmental needs On-call rotation required Weekend or holiday work may be required
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $40,000.00 - $50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Professional development assistance Retirement plan Vision insurance
Application Question(s):

Do you have proven experience in municipal utilities or public works operations?
License/Certification:

Class B or higher Water License is required (Required)
Work Location: In person