Job Title: Director
Department/Agency: Department of Public Works (DPW)
Closing Date: December 13, 2024
Type of Position: Political Appointee
Posting Type: Employment Opportunity/Open to the PublicPay Grade and
Salary Range: GS-18/$65,000 - $85,000 p.a.
Email Your Resume, Cover Letter and References to: OfficeGovElectASG@gmail.com
Your Resume - Attach your updated resume in either a txt, Word document, or PDF format. Confirm the subject line includes the position you are applying for: Department of Public Works (DPW)
Submit a Cover Letter and Headshot - Include a personalized cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications for the role. Be sure to include a recent headshot photo.
Provide Professional References - Send a list of at least three professional references. Include their names, phone numbers, and email addresses. You are welcome to include letters of reference if available.
General Description
The Director of the Department of Public Works (DPW) serves as the senior executive responsible for managing the planning, development, maintenance, and operation of public infrastructure in American Samoa. This includes overseeing key infrastructure systems such as roads, bridges, public buildings, drainage systems, and other essential services, ensuring they are developed and maintained in a manner that aligns with the territory’s growth and sustainability objectives. The Director plays a pivotal role in leading the department to meet both immediate and long-term infrastructure needs while ensuring compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and policies. The position requires a strategic, results-driven leader capable of managing diverse teams, handling large-scale projects, and overseeing a substantial budget, while fostering effective collaboration with government agencies, contractors, and local communities.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Leadership and Strategic Planning:
Provide visionary leadership in the development, implementation, and management of the DPW’s goals and strategic objectives, ensuring alignment with the Governor’s vision and policies.
Lead the department in creating and executing comprehensive plans for the design, construction, and rehabilitation of public infrastructure, considering future needs and the potential for growth within American Samoa.
Supervise the DPW’s leadership team and staff, ensuring clear objectives are set, resources are allocated efficiently, and the department operates in a cohesive and productive manner.
Project and Operations Management:
Oversee the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure projects, ensuring that all projects meet quality standards, are completed within budget, and are delivered on schedule.
Manage the various divisions within the Department, including the Land & Survey Division, Architecture & Engineering Division, Building Branch, Maintenance & Operations Division, Civil Highway Division, and Transit Division.
Monitor the progress of infrastructure projects and address any issues or obstacles to ensure smooth project execution.
Budget and Financial Management:
Develop and manage the Department’s budget, ensuring that funds are allocated effectively across projects, programs, and operations, while adhering to financial and procurement regulations.
Ensure that financial resources are used efficiently, with strict adherence to cost control measures, while maximizing the impact of public investment in infrastructure projects.
Oversee the procurement process for contractors, service providers, and equipment, ensuring fair and competitive bidding in line with the territorial laws and regulations.
Regulatory Compliance and Policy Development:
Ensure that all projects and operational activities comply with applicable local, territorial, and federal laws, including the Uniform Building Code, environmental regulations, and public safety standards.
Continuously review and update departmental policies and procedures to reflect current legal and regulatory requirements, while implementing best practices in infrastructure development and maintenance.
Monitor compliance with safety, health, and environmental regulations across all public works projects, ensuring a safe working environment for staff and contractors.
Stakeholder Engagement and Community Relations:
Foster strong relationships with government agencies, contractors, community leaders, and local organizations to ensure collaboration on projects and address the infrastructure needs of the public.
Engage with local residents, business owners, and other stakeholders to gather input on infrastructure needs, and ensure public concerns are addressed in a timely and transparent manner.
Serve as the primary liaison between the DPW and other governmental entities, facilitating communication on key projects, policies, and issues.
Performance Monitoring and Reporting:
Establish clear key performance indicators (KPIs) for the DPW and its divisions, regularly assessing performance and ensuring that objectives are met.
Provide regular reports to the Governor, the American Samoa Legislature, and other senior officials regarding the progress of infrastructure projects, financial management, and Department performance.
Ensure that detailed project reports, financial statements, and operational reviews are submitted in a timely and transparent manner, highlighting successes, challenges, and opportunities for improvement.
Sustainability and Innovation:
Promote sustainability in public works projects by incorporating energy-efficient, environmentally responsible practices, and innovative technologies into infrastructure designs and operations.
Encourage the use of green building materials, climate-resilient infrastructure, and energy-saving measures that reduce long-term operational costs and environmental impact.
Lead the Department in adopting innovative solutions to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of public infrastructure development and maintenance.
Emergency Response and Disaster Recovery:
Collaborate with other government agencies in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery efforts, ensuring that critical infrastructure is protected, restored, and rebuilt when necessary.
Develop and implement plans for the rapid restoration of essential public services, including roads, bridges, and utilities, following natural disasters or other emergencies.
Lead post-disaster assessments and coordinate recovery efforts to minimize the impact of disasters on the community.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Comprehensive knowledge of public infrastructure systems, including roads, bridges, drainage systems, and public buildings, as well as the technical, environmental, and economic factors influencing infrastructure development.
Familiarity with the Uniform Building Code, environmental protection laws, and safety standards applicable to public works projects.
Understanding of construction, project management, budgeting, and procurement regulations relevant to public works and infrastructure in American Samoa.
Strong leadership and managerial skills, with the ability to inspire, direct, and develop a diverse team of professionals.
Excellent financial management skills, with experience in budgeting, cost control, and resource allocation.
Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities, capable of addressing complex issues and obstacles in a timely and effective manner.
Effective communication skills, with the ability to engage a wide range of stakeholders, including government officials, contractors, community groups, and the public.
Ability to manage multiple large-scale infrastructure projects simultaneously, ensuring that they are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality and safety.
Ability to prioritize tasks, manage resources efficiently, and ensure the Department’s objectives are achieved in a dynamic and challenging environment.
Ability to adapt to shifting priorities and changing circumstances while maintaining a clear focus on the Department’s mission and goals.
Academic and Experience Requirements
Education:
A Master’s degree in civil engineering, construction management, public administration, or a related field is required.
Experience:
At least 10 years of progressively responsible experience in the field of public works, infrastructure management, or construction, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership position.
Proven experience in managing complex infrastructure projects, including project oversight, financial management, procurement, and compliance with regulations.
Experience working with government agencies, contractors, and other stakeholders in the public works sector.
Familiarity with the specific challenges and infrastructure needs of American Samoa, including geographic, environmental, and cultural factors, is highly beneficial.
Certifications:
Professional licensure in civil engineering or a related field is preferred, but not required.
Certifications in project management (e.g., PMP) or public administration are advantageous.
Salary
The salary is competitive and based on experience and qualifications. Specific compensation details will be provided upon request.
Additional Information
For questions regarding the position or application process, please contact the Office of the Governor-Elect directly via email at officegovelectASG@gmail.com
*The American Samoa Government is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified candidates will be considered for political appointments without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal and territorial laws. Appointments will be made based on qualifications, experience, and the ability to serve effectively in alignment with the policies and goals of the administration.
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