Program Manager I – Engineering Process Improvement & Innovation

City of Fort Wayne•Fort Wayne, IN

3d•Onsite

About The Position

City Utilities Engineering is looking for an innovative leader who can turn data, ideas, and technology into practical improvements. This position leads process improvement and innovation initiatives that help City Utilities Engineering operate more efficiently, improve customer service, reduce costs, and prepare for future needs. The role works across teams to evaluate current practices, introduce new tools, and guide meaningful change.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Systems Engineering, Operations Management, or a related engineering or management field; or an associate degree with at least 10 years of experience leading operations and process improvement.
At least five years of experience using Lean, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methods.
Strong leadership, communication, change management, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Experience with Microsoft Office, including Excel pivot tables, PowerPoint, and Word.
Ability to work effectively with engineering teams, operations staff, consultants, contractors, vendors, government agencies, and the public.
Valid Indiana driver's license if operating a City vehicle.
Ability to occasionally lift or move up to 50 pounds.
Ability to work in office and field environments, which may occasionally include weather conditions, moving vehicles, fumes, or airborne particles.

Nice To Haves

Experience working for or with a municipal government or utility.
Experience with project management, performance measures, KPIs, grant applications, and staff training.
Adobe Illustrator experience.
Spanish or Burmese language skills.

Responsibilities

Lead process improvement and innovation initiatives that help City Utilities Engineering operate more efficiently, improve customer service, reduce costs, and prepare for future needs.
Works across teams to evaluate current practices, introduce new tools, and guide meaningful change.
Analyze engineering and development workflows to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement.
Develop and lead process improvement strategies using Lean, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methods.
Introduce new tools and technologies, coordinate pilot programs, and evaluate opportunities for broader use.
Establish performance measures, track results, document savings, and prepare reports and presentations.
Supervise assigned employees and support hiring, training, performance management, and daily team direction.