Capital Projects Operational Manager III

Sarasota County Government

1d • $103,000 - $115,000

About The Position

Start Here. Grow Here. Stay Here. Ready to lead infrastructure that powers a growing community? Sarasota County is seeking a dynamic and strategic Operational Manager III to join the leadership team within our Capital Projects Department. In this high-impact role, you will provide executive-level oversight of the Utilities Capital Improvement Program on behalf of the Public Utilities Department—guiding complex, high-visibility projects from concept through construction. You’ll lead capital initiatives spanning design, permitting, construction, project management, and inspection—ensuring projects are delivered with excellence, transparency, and fiscal responsibility. These initiatives require extensive coordination across County departments, regulatory agencies, consultants, and the communities we serve. This is more than a project leadership role—it’s an opportunity to shape essential infrastructure, influence long-term planning, and strengthen public trust through collaboration and accountability. If you are a proven leader who thrives in complexity, builds strong partnerships, and champions continuous improvement while advancing the County’s mission, vision, and values—we invite you to bring your expertise to Sarasota County. The pay starts between $103,000.00 - $115,000.00/ annually (based on experience), and benefits begin within 60 days of hire. Apply today and help build the infrastructure that supports tomorrow. Up to $3,000 relocation is available for those moving 50+ miles to join the premier community where people choose to live, work, and play!
About the Position Lead the future in Utilities Capital Improvement Program: Lead and oversee the Utility Division in delivering the Utilities Capital Improvement Program (CIP). Serve as primary liaison between the division and the owner-department’s director and senior leadership. Direct 5-year CIP budget development, funding allocation, cost estimating, and annual spend-down planning. Provide financial oversight, including historical cost analysis, grant support, and management of State Revolving Fund (SRF) loans. Establish strategic goals and initiatives aligned with departmental objectives. Promote continuous improvement to ensure projects are delivered on schedule, within budget, and with high quality. Develop reporting and transparency practices for leadership, administration, and the Board. Manage personnel functions, team development, communication, and division culture. Provide executive oversight across project phases, including procurement, design, construction, and negotiations. Establish project management standards, documentation practices, and delivery methods to ensure consistency and accountability. Why Join Us: Lead High-Impact Infrastructure Programs: Play a pivotal leadership role in delivering complex, high-value utility capital projects that directly impact communities and long-term infrastructure reliability. Drive Strategy and Financial Stewardship: Shape the 5-year Capital Improvement Program, guide multimillion-dollar budget planning, and influence funding strategies including grants and State Revolving Fund financing. Executive-Level Influence and Visibility: Serve as a trusted advisor and direct liaison to senior leadership and the Board, with meaningful input into strategic goals and major program decisions. Build and Empower a High-Performing Team: Lead and develop a cohesive division culture focused on collaboration, continuous improvement, accountability, and professional growth. Own Projects from Vision to Delivery: Provide oversight across the full project lifecycle—from planning and procurement to design, construction, and closeout—while establishing standards that ensure quality, efficiency, and transparency. Work Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in related field AND six (6) years in engineering or related field.
• Master’s Degree in related field AND four (4) or more years in engineering or related field.
• May consider substituting years of experience for the four (4) year degree.
• Four (4) or more years of supervisory/management experience.
• Subject to Passing Substance Screening: This position is subject to passing a pre-employment substance screening. An applicant who fails to pass a required drug screening test shall be disqualified from employment for a period of five (5) years.

Nice To Haves

• Project Management Professional Certification.
• Expereince using: e-Builder, Outlook, Microsoft Office 365 Suite of Applications, Adobe, etc.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the Utility Division in delivering the Utilities Capital Improvement Program (CIP)
• Serve as primary liaison between the division and the owner-department’s director and senior leadership.
• Direct 5-year CIP budget development, funding allocation, cost estimating, and annual spend-down planning.
• Provide financial oversight, including historical cost analysis, grant support, and management of State Revolving Fund (SRF) loans.
• Establish strategic goals and initiatives aligned with departmental objectives.
• Promote continuous improvement to ensure projects are delivered on schedule, within budget, and with high quality.
• Develop reporting and transparency practices for leadership, administration, and the Board.
• Manage personnel functions, team development, communication, and division culture.
• Provide executive oversight across project phases, including procurement, design, construction, and negotiations.
• Establish project management standards, documentation practices, and delivery methods to ensure consistency and accountability.

Benefits

• Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Florida Retirement System (FRS)
• Wellness program including free gyms at multiple Sarasota County Government locations.
• 11 paid holidays, 3 personal days and 16 paid vacation days in the first year of full-time employment with increasing accrual rates with years of service.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager