Public Works Technician Lead

The City of Bend is currently recruiting for one (1) full-time, COBEA represented, overtime-eligible Public Works Technician Lead to support our Landscaping Division within the Transportation & Mobility Department. This position plays a key role in maintaining and enhancing the City’s landscaped public spaces, rights-of-way, and streetscapes that contribute to Bend’s livability, safety, and visual character.

Under the direction of a Street Supervisor, the Public Works Technician Lead performs advanced skilled work and serves as a lead worker for crews providing daily direction, training, and coordination of landscaping and right-of-way maintenance activities. The Lead works with minimal field supervision and is responsible for the efficient use of staff, equipment, and materials while ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with applicable standards and regulations.

This role is ideal for an experienced public works professional who enjoys hands-on technical work, mentoring crew members, and taking ownership of day-to-day operations in the field.

As a Public Works Technician Lead in Landscaping, you will perform a full range of advanced maintenance, construction, and lead duties, including:

• Lead and coordinate daily work activities for landscaping and right-of-way maintenance crews, including task assignment, workflow planning, and on-the-job training
• Perform and oversee landscaping maintenance such as planting, pruning, irrigation system maintenance, vegetation control, erosion control, and right-of-way upkeep
• Operate and direct the operation of light to heavy equipment and specialized tools used in landscaping and public works operations
• Serve as a technical resource for crew members by demonstrating proper techniques, promoting safe work practices, and troubleshooting complex field issues
• Assist supervisors by providing input on work planning, staffing needs, materials, equipment, and budget-related items
• Prepare and maintain records, logs, and documentation related to maintenance activities, inspections, and work orders
• Respond to customer service requests and public inquiries, investigating and resolving issues from start to finish
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations, OR-OSHA requirements, environmental standards, and City policies
• Participate in emergency response activities, including after-hours callouts and declared emergency events
• Support winter operations as assigned, including snow and ice control activities
• Collaborate with other divisions and departments to coordinate work and support City-wide goals
• Perform other related duties as assigned

The ideal candidate is an experienced public works or landscaping professional who brings both strong technical expertise and leadership skills to the field.

You are someone who:

• Has extensive hands-on experience in landscaping, right-of-way maintenance, or related public works functions
• Enjoys leading crews, mentoring others, and setting clear expectations in a collaborative work environment
• Demonstrates sound judgment, problem-solving skills, and the ability to adapt to changing field conditions
• Communicates effectively with crew members, supervisors, contractors, and the public
• Is safety-focused and committed to high-quality workmanship

Minimum Qualifications at Time of Hire

• High School Diploma or GED, plus one (1) year of specialized or technical training beyond high school

• At least six (6) years of experience in public works, landscaping, right-of-way maintenance, construction, or related fields, including two (2) years in a higher-level oversight or lead role

• Two (2) – three (3) years of people management or supervisory experience

• Current and valid driver's license in accordance with City policy
• Valid Oregon Class A Commercial Driver’s License with tanker endorsement (Hazmat endorsement may be required depending on assignment)

Required Post-Hire Certifications (reasonable / assignment-based timeframes)

• Oregon Roads Scholar I and II Certification – Obtain within a reasonable timeframe, based on course availability

• FEMA ICS 100 and 700 Certifications

• ODOT Environmental Construction Inspector (Erosion Control)
• IMSA Signs & Pavement Markings Certification Level II
• Oregon Department of Agriculture Pesticide License (Public Right-of-Way Category)
• Oregon Department of Agriculture "Laws and Safety" Certificate
• Oregon Cross Connection Specialist Certificate
• ODOT ADA Curb Ramp Inspector Certification
• ODOT Asphalt Concrete Pavement Inspector Certification

Application Deadline:
This recruitment has a priority consideration date. Applications received byApril 3, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. (noon) Pacific Timewill receive first consideration. This recruitment willremain open until the position is filledand may close at any time after the priority consideration date without additional notice.

Application Requirements:

To be considered, applicants must submit a complete online application through NeoGov. Required attachments include:

• Resume
• Cover letter

Incomplete applications or missing required attachments may result in disqualification.

Veterans’ Preference:
The City of Bend provides Veterans’ Preference in accordance with applicable laws. Applicants requesting Veterans’ Preference as a qualified veteran or disabled veteran must submit appropriate documentation with their application.For more information click here: Human Resources | City of Bend

Equity & Inclusion:
The City of Bend is committed to building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the community we serve and to fostering an inclusive, safe, and respectful workplace. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are dedicated to providing equitable employment opportunities so employees can thrive.

Benefits:
Benefits include medical, dental, vision, paid leave, retirement through PERS, and other City-sponsored programs.