Lead with Purpose. Build with Pride. Serve Ware.
The Town is seeking an experienced Director of Public Works
Salary Range:
$125,000-$145,000
Are you an experienced public works professional ready to make a lasting impact in a community that values its employees? The Town of Ware is seeking its next Director of Public Works, an innovative leader to guide multimillion-dollar infrastructure projects, oversee essential services, and shape the future of this historic New England community.
As Director, you’ll lead a dedicated team, manage critical projects, and directly enhance residents’ quality of life. Ware prides itself on supporting employees with the resources to succeed, the trust to lead, and a leadership team that values collaboration, innovation, and integrity.
Why Ware?
Ware is one of Massachusetts’ hidden gems—a welcoming community with a rich history, natural beauty, and a strong sense of civic pride. Nestled in the scenic Quaboag region, it offers small-town character with easy access to Worcester, Springfield, and the Pioneer Valley.
What truly sets Ware apart is its employee-centered culture. The Town values, supports, and respects its staff, prioritizing professional growth, collaboration, and work-life balance. With financial stability, strong leadership, and community support, the Department of Public Works is well-resourced and positioned for success.
Ware also offers an outstanding quality of life, with affordable housing, excellent schools, recreation opportunities, and access to the outdoors. Employees benefit from being part of a close-knit community while working for a forward-thinking organization that invests in training, certification, and leadership development. The Town’s leadership team is committed to being an employer of choice in Central Massachusetts, providing competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and a truly supportive environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead a dedicated team committed to maintaining and improving Ware’s infrastructure and public spaces.
- Report directly to the Town Manager as Director of Public Works.
- Oversee all Department operations and administration in line with state law, by-laws, and Town policies.
- Guide strategic planning and implement short- and long-term goals for public works projects.
- Develop and manage multimillion-dollar operating and capital budgets responsibly.
- Advise the Town Manager, Select Board, and officials on infrastructure and public works matters.
- Manage contracts, bids, and grants while ensuring compliance with regulations.
- Recruit, lead, and support staff, fostering professional growth and positive labor relations.
- Represent the Town in regional partnerships, regulatory forums, and emergency planning.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree in civil engineering, public administration, or related field (Master’s preferred).
- Minimum of ten (10) years progressively responsible public works experience, including at least three (3) years in management.
- Valid Massachusetts driver’s license required; CDL Class A or B preferred.
- Knowledge of civil engineering, water distribution, wastewater treatment, highway construction, solid waste, and OSHA safety standards.
- Strong financial, planning, organizational, and leadership skills.
- Preferred: Massachusetts Wastewater Operator’s License (Grade 5), Drinking Water Facilities License (D2, T1), and Massachusetts Certified Public Purchasing Officer.
Why Join Our Team?
Joining the Town of Ware means more than a job, it’s becoming part of a supportive community that values its employees. With competitive pay, excellent benefits, and the chance to shape a historic town’s future, this is a rewarding opportunity for a visionary public works leader.
A full detailed job description can be found at:
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to
Human Resources Department, Town of Ware, 126 Main Street, Ware, MA 01082
OR e-mail: resumes@townofware.com
The Town of Ware is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Town of Ware does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, gender identity, transgender status, gender transitioning, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, pregnancy/parenting status, marital status, sexual orientation, homelessness, or military status, in any of its programs, activities or operations. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, volunteers, subcontractors, and vendors.