Department of Public Works Director

Job Title: Department of Public Works Director

Department: Department of Public Works

Reports to: Tribal Administrator

Salary Range: $67,787.20 to $127,129.60 Annually

Status: Exempt

Level: GD

Opens: August 18, 2026

Closes: Until Filled

SUMMARY: The Public Works Director oversees and manages the Tribe’s Public Works Department, including water and wastewater utilities that serve tribal government buildings, the Odawa Casino Resort, commercial rental properties, residential apartments and future developments. This position ensures the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of all water and wastewater systems, infrastructure, and public works services. The Director is responsible for managing budgets, supervising staff and contractors, coordinating maintenance activities, and implementing departmental systems and policies consistent with the Tribe’s mission and strategic goals and DPW statute.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: CURRENT DUTIES

• Supervises Water & Wastewater Operations employees and contractors in the operation, repair, and maintenance of equipment; assigns and inspects completed work and work in progress.
• Oversees the operation and maintenance of the Class D Wastewater Treatment Plant, lift stations, water wells, storage towers, and distribution systems.
• Develops departmental work plans including goals, objectives, timelines, and evaluation processes for staff and operations.
• Works with accounting and engineering staff to conduct rate studies for accurate wastewater utility billing.
• Oversees invoices and billing materials for utility recipients, including but not limited to Odawa Casino Resort, Victories Square and future tenants.
• Prepares and presents annual department budgets; ensures compliance with budgets, grants, and contract agreements.
• Develops and enforces safety, maintenance, and operational procedures for water and wastewater systems.
• Monitors plant performance, laboratory results, and operational data to ensure compliance with applicable permits and standards.
• Maintains accurate records, prepares monthly reports, and ensures all regulatory testing and reporting are completed as required.
• Coordinates with other LTBB departments, contractors, and agencies on public works projects, repairs, and improvements.
• Provides oversight for storm water retention systems and recommends maintenance and repair actions.
• Responds to emergencies related to water, wastewater, and public works infrastructure.
• Trains and evaluates staff performance; recommends hiring, termination, and disciplinary actions.
• Represents the Tribe at relevant meetings, training, and intergovernmental boards.
• Develop departmental procedures and policies in alignment with LTBB’s Public Works Statute.
• Performs all other duties as assigned.

IN ACCORDANCE WITH WOS 2021-011 ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: FUTURE DUTIES

• Procure telecommunications and utility services for the Tribe and its Tribal Citizens contingent upon the availability of funds.
• Provide general training on telecommunication equipment and services.
• Inventory roads and transportation needs.
• Conduct public service awareness campaigns in partnerships with other entities.
• Administer Energy and Utility based programs, grants, and projects.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, public works management, water/wastewater technology, or a closely related field combined with a minimum of 2 years of supervisory or managerial experience required.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:

Must possess a valid driver’s license, have reliable transportation, and be insurable by the Tribe’s insurance carrier during duration of employment.

Must hold or be able to obtain within 12 months of hire:
• Michigan Wastewater Operator – Class D license, and
• Michigan Drinking Water Operator – S-3 or F-3 certification.

Storm Water Industrial Site Certification required within six (6) months of hire.

COMMENTS: Indian preference will apply (Preference will be given to qualified Native American applicants in accordance with the LTBB Indian Preference Statute). 

ABOUT US: On Sept. 21, 1994, the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians (LTBB) was federally reaffirmed with the signing of Public Law 103-324. The Tribe is governed by a nine-member Tribal Council. The LTBB Government presently employs over 200 Native and Non-Native employees across more than 20 departments, ranging from Healthcare to Natural Resources.

BENEFITS: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k) match, 13 Holidays, PTO, Parental, Cultural, Wellness and Educational leave, and more!

TO APPLY: Please submit LTBB Application Form, Resume, and Cover Letter by Email to hr@ltbbodawa-nsn.gov or via Fax, Mail, or In Person at our Human Resources (HR) office.

LTBB Application Form: https://ltbbodawa-nsn.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Employment-Application.pdf

HR Contact Info: https://ltbbodawa-nsn.gov/departments/human-resources-department/job-opportunities/