Assistant Director, Austin Watershed Protection - Support Services

City of Austin • Austin, TX

23d

About The Position

At the City of Austin, we are more than just an employer—we are a vibrant community dedicated to shaping one of the nation's most dynamic and innovative cities. As we strive to fulfill our commitment as public servants, it is important that we ground our efforts in a set of guiding principles – Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, Engagement, and Equity – anchors in delivering services that significantly impact the lives of Austinites. Joining the City of Austin means embarking on a purposeful career, contributing to the community, and being part of a forward-thinking organization that values every employee.
Under the direction of the Director, this position directs the activities of personnel involved in providing development review and inspection services, including reducing the impact of flooding, erosion, and water pollution for the City of Austin.

Requirements

• Knowledge of fiscal planning and budget preparation.
• Knowledge of and skill in supervisory, managerial techniques, and principles.
• Skill in oral and written communications.
• Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
• Skill in using computers and related software applications.
• Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
• Ability to train others.
• Ability to quickly recognize and analyze irregular events.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective communication and working relationships with City employees and the public.
• Graduation with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in a field related to Engineering, Business, Natural Science, or Public Administration plus six (6) years of supervisory or management experience in the environmental field, public or business administration.
• Master's degree may substitute for experience up to a maximum of two (2) years.

Nice To Haves

• Proven experience managing a very diverse program portfolio (Finance, Safety Resources, Communications, Marketing & Engagement, Community Education, Human Resources, and Administrative Services).
• Demonstrates the ability to convey and receive information and ideas in an open, clear, and articulate way with respect to cultural differences and others’ perspectives.
• Experience in collaborating and presenting to internal and external stakeholders on projects and programs that might include public outreach, City Council updates, and program implementation.
• Establish and maintain organizational capacity and resources to support continuous quality improvement.
• Proven executive experience working in or with government teams to support the delivery of complex projects.
• Supports leadership team growth and continuous improvement by building clear structures, communication pathways, and accountability systems across the department.
• Ability to exhibit confidence and professional diplomacy and be comfortable in high-visibility public settings (e.g., council, commissions, community meetings).

Responsibilities

• Develops and implements short- and long-range strategies, plans, programs, and personnel that provide administrative, managerial support, fiscal management, program planning, and evaluation.
• Determines goals, objectives, and resource requirements for activities within the division.
• Develops, revises, and implements standard operating practice, policy, and procedure governing the division.
• Ensures division is in compliance with all governmental regulations, ordinances, directives, and City practice, policy, and procedure.
• Assists in the development, management, and monitoring of the departmental budget, ensuring department operates within appropriated budget.
• Recommends and, as applicable, approves major purchases and expenditures.
• Acts as liaison to City departments, consultants, contractors, and governmental agencies.
• Responds to and resolves sensitive inquiries, complaints, and issues from both internal and external sources.
• Prepares and presents reports by compiling, reviewing, and analyzing data; provides written and/or oral reports.
• Investigates and resolves consumer and citizen inquiries and/or complaints.
• Presents to City Council; boards; County, State, and Federal officials; vendors; contractors; and the general public.
• Responsible for the full range of supervisory activities including selection, training, evaluation, counseling, and recommendation for dismissal.

Benefits

• Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits.
• Retirement Security: Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System.
• Sustainable Transportation Options: Commute easily with access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure.
• Focus on Wellness: Stay healthy through wellness programs, on-site fitness centers, and mental health support.
• Career Growth: Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees