Highway Superintendent - Tripp County

Tripp County South Dakota is seeking to hire a Highway Superintendent responsible for the administration, planning, construction, maintenance, and improvement of the county highway system in accordance with South Dakota Codified Law Title 31. This position oversees all county highway operations, including road and bridge construction and maintenance, project planning, budgeting, equipment management, regulatory compliance, and supervision of highway department personnel and contractors. The Highway Superintendent serves as the County's primary leader for transportation infrastructure and works closely with the County Commission, County Auditor, contractors, engineers, and the South Dakota Department of Transportation to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective transportation systems throughout the county. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Highway System Management Direct and oversee the construction, maintenance, repair, and improvement of county roads, bridges, culverts, drainage systems, and related infrastructure. Develop short- and long-range plans for transportation infrastructure improvements. Conduct inspections of roads, bridges, and construction projects to ensure compliance with plans, specifications, regulations, and safety standards. Coordinate emergency response activities related to county roads and transportation infrastructure. Project Planning and Administration Develop project scopes, schedules, timelines, and budgets. Participate in the planning and design of road, bridge, and drainage projects. Collaborate with engineers, architects, contractors, and regulatory agencies during project development and execution. Prepare bid specifications, review proposals, and administer contracts. Oversee contractor performance and ensure project completion according to schedule and budget. Financial Management Prepare and manage departmental budgets. Monitor project expenditures and implement cost-control measures. Maintain detailed records of all labor, materials, equipment usage, hauling, inspections, depreciation, rentals, and related costs as required by South Dakota law. File required cost reports and project documentation with the County Auditor. Identify opportunities for cost savings while maintaining quality and safety standards. Regulatory Compliance and Reporting Prepare and submit applications, reports, and documentation required by the South Dakota Department of Transportation and other agencies. Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. Maintain complete and accurate project documentation, including contracts, change orders, reports, correspondence, and meeting records. Provide regular progress reports to the County Commission regarding ongoing projects and contractor performance. Personnel and Resource Management Supervise all county highway department employees. Recruit, train, evaluate, and develop staff. Assign work and schedule crews to ensure efficient operations. Promote a culture of safety, professionalism, and accountability. Ensure employees receive appropriate safety training and comply with safety procedures. Equipment and Materials Management Oversee the maintenance and operation of county highway equipment and vehicles. Monitor equipment performance and maintenance schedules. Manage inventory of materials and supplies. Coordinate procurement of equipment, materials, and services. Ensure efficient utilization of labor, equipment, and resources. Risk and Safety Management Identify and mitigate risks associated with highway operations and construction activities. Implement and enforce safety policies and procedures. Investigate accidents and incidents and recommend corrective actions. Ensure compliance with applicable workplace safety standards. Minimum Qualifications High School Diploma or GED required. Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Public Works Administration, or a related field preferred. Equivalent military training or relevant experience may be considered. Progressively responsible experience in highway construction, road maintenance, public works, construction management, or related field. Supervisory experience preferred. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of road and bridge construction methods and maintenance practices. Knowledge of budgeting, project management, and contract administration. Knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local regulations. Ability to read and interpret engineering plans and specifications. Ability to prepare reports, maintain records, and manage documentation. Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, contractors, government agencies, elected officials, and the public. Ability to make sound decisions under pressure and manage multiple priorities. Licenses and Certifications Valid South Dakota Driver's License required. Commercial Driver's License (CDL) preferred or ability to obtain within a specified period after hire. Additional certifications related to highway maintenance, construction management, safety, or public works are desirable. Working Conditions Work is performed in both office and outdoor environments. The position requires frequent field inspections of construction sites, roads, bridges, and maintenance operations. Exposure to varying weather conditions, construction hazards, traffic, and heavy equipment is expected. What we offer you! Market competitive wages - Starting salary between $50,000 and $80,000 annual Health Insurance for you is 100% PAID! Dental and Vision Insurance Participation in the South Dakota Retirement System as well as the SD Supplemental Retirement insurance and Paid time off (vacation, sick and holiday) Applications accepted until the position is filled. Tripp County, South Dakota is an Equal Opportunity Employer