Highway / Public Works & Maintenance Director

Date Posted: March 10, 2026 | End Date: September 06, 2026
County: Penobscot County
Job Type: Water & Wastewater

Town of Patten, Maine
Full-Time | Appointed Position
Reports To: Town Manager

The Town of Patten is seeking a highly skilled, hands-on professional to serve as Highway / Public Works & Maintenance Director. This is a key leadership position responsible for overseeing and performing a wide range of municipal public works, infrastructure, and maintenance services that directly support the safety, functionality, and appearance of the community.

Position Summary

The Highway / Public Works & Maintenance Director manages and performs maintenance and repair operations for town roads and streets, water and sewer systems, cemetery access and operations, municipal buildings, and town-owned equipment. The Director supervises department activities, works closely with the Town Manager, coordinates contractors, ensures regulatory compliance, and plans both short- and long-term infrastructure needs for the Town of Patten.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Maintain and repair town roads and streets, including pothole patching, gravel application, grading, and snow removal
• Inspect and coordinate replacement of culverts and drainage systems
• Remove downed trees, debris, and road obstructions
• Install, repair, and maintain road signage in compliance with State of Maine standards
• Operate, inspect, and maintain the town’s water and sewer systems, including wastewater pumping and transfer stations
• Perform required testing, reporting, and regulatory compliance for water and wastewater systems
• Supervise wastewater treatment operations to meet State and Federal requirements
• Maintain town cemetery grounds, including layout, inspections, and grave excavation using heavy equipment
• Oversee routine maintenance and minor repairs to town-owned buildings and facilities
• Supervise maintenance of town vehicles and equipment; obtain price quotes and recommend replacements
• Coordinate and oversee contractors on major construction and infrastructure projects
• Train new department employees in safety practices and document required training
• Attend Board of Selectpersons meetings and provide departmental reports
• Assist with setup and takedown for elections, town meetings, and municipal events
• Inspect proposed private driveway plans for compliance with town policies
• Maintain cleanliness and appearance of town properties
• Develop long-range plans and departmental goals in coordination with the Town Manager
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Town Manager

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Valid State of Maine Class C driver’s license with a good driving record
• Ability to obtain and maintain required State of Maine certifications, including:
  • Class I Water Treatment & Distribution License
  • Class II Wastewater Treatment License
• Experience operating and maintaining heavy equipment, vehicles, and power tools
• Strong leadership, supervisory, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects, and work independently
• Availability for 24 hour on-call (to be rotated with part time position) and emergency response, should live no more than 15-20 miles from Town of Patten.
• Ability to work outdoors year-round in all weather conditions

Physical Requirements

This position requires frequent physical activity, including lifting over 75 pounds, walking, standing, bending, climbing, pushing, pulling, stooping, and operating heavy equipment. Work is performed in varying weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, snow, rain, and wind.

Why Join the Town of Patten?

This role offers the opportunity to make a direct, visible impact on the community while leading essential municipal services. The successful candidate will play a critical role in maintaining public safety, infrastructure reliability, and the overall quality of life for Patten residents.

Applications are available at the Town Office or on the Town’s website: Please send to [email protected] or via mail to: Patten Town Office, P.O. Box 260, Patten, Maine 04765 Deadline to apply: Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and the position will remain open until filled.