Assistant Director, Public Works Operations (Street & Bridge Operations)

City of Austin • Cambridge, MA

23d • $181,000 - $191,000

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. The City of Austin Transportation and Public Works (ATPW) is a department of the City of Austin responsible for a variety of transportation, mobility, and safety functions throughout the community. ATPW works with many Austin-area partners and agencies to build, maintain, and operate a multi-modal transportation system that is safe, reliable, and sustainable. Job Description: Under nominal direction, develops, plans, and implements operational plans and public works functions for the City of Austin.

Requirements

• Graduation with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Engineering, Construction Management, Business, or Public Administration ,plus six (6) years of supervisory/management experience in road, pavement, utilities, vehicle, facilities, and other public works maintenance and repair operations.
• Twelve (12) college semester hours of graduate work in one of the above-specified areas may substitute for six months of the required work experience up to a maximum of two (2) years.
• Knowledge of fiscal planning and budget preparation.
• Knowledge of city practice, policy, and procedure.
• Knowledge of technical aspects of maintenance and repair operations.
• Knowledge of supervisory and 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.
• Skill in managing multiple programs, projects, and tasks.
• Ability to quickly recognize and analyze irregular events.
• Ability to establish and maintain excellent communication and working relationships with city personnel and the public.

Nice To Haves

• Experience Maintaining Transportation Infrastructure – Understanding transportation asset maintenance best practices, prioritizing resource needs, budgeting, and planning for future needs.
• Experience managing field crews – Understanding the complexities and safety concerns that may arise during projects.
• Emergency Management Experience - Familiarity with Incident Command System (ICS) and expertise in providing critical response to emergencies such as climate change, heat, floods, and winter storms.
• Data-Driven Innovation Experience - Ability to leverage data to support and enhance practices, processes, and decision making within Street and Bridge Operations.
• Inclusive Leadership Expertise – Ability to connect with employees throughout the various units, locations, and shifts across the city.
• Crisis Leadership Experience – Ability to navigate crisis situations with strong decision making.
• Change Management – Ability to identify and lead change initiatives to move the organization forward in a meaningful way.
• Relationship Builder – Ability to effectively build and leverage relationships with internal and external stakeholders and Mayor and City Council.
• Cross-functional Project Collaboration Expertise - Proven ability to streamline and optimize complex, cross-functional projects by identifying inefficiencies, implementing scalable workflows, and leveraging project management tools to enhance productivity, reduce resource waste, and accelerate delivery timelines.

Responsibilities

• Manages division and section activities, including audits of existing facilities, equipment, and personnel to ensure effectiveness and efficiency.
• Identifies and analyzes trends; determines methodologies to implement change.
• Develops and implements short and long range 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 City practice, policy, and procedure.
• Develops and reviews infrastructure maintenance and repair functions and technical criteria, including but not limited to roads, traffic signals, signs, pavement striping, pavement markings, facilities (mobility management center), street trees, and vehicle maintenance.
• Serves as the Emergency Response Management Coordinator for the Department.
• Reviews, approves, and implements quality and safety systems and programs.
• Assists in the preparation, presentation, and monitoring the departmental budget, and ensures department operates within appropriated budget.
• Represents the department at City Council meetings, citizens groups, boards and commissions.
• Provides support to other City departments and agencies on an enterprise basis.
• Investigates and resolves consumer and citizen inquiries and complaints.
• Prepares and presents reports by compiling, reviewing, and analyzing data; provides written or oral reports.
• 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.
• Modern Workspaces: Work in innovative and sustainable environments that foster collaboration and inspiration.

What This Job Offers

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