Special Assistant to the Director

Metropolitan Government of Nashville & Davidson County•Nashville, TN

About The Position

The Special Assistant to the Director serves as a trusted advisor and administrative partner, supporting departmental outcomes and working closely with the Director and leadership team on fiscal, personnel, operational, and strategic matters. The role represents the department to employees, Metro agencies, Council members, the media, and the public, and requires strong communication and problem-solving skills across a varied and visible range of work. Waste Services provides weekly curbside waste and biweekly curbside recycling collection to more than 151,000 customers in the urban services district, and collects litter from more than 200 public baskets in downtown Nashville. The division operates four convenience centers and eight recycling drop-off locations. Its staff work across collection, administration, customer service, education, landfill engineering, development review, and outreach. The position provides high-level administrative and managerial support to the Department Director, contributes to departmental planning and operations, and helps coordinate work across divisions. A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and five years of administrative experience are required, with no substitution for this position. A valid driver's license is also required. Employees must reside in Tennessee or become residents of the state within six months of employment.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
Five years of administrative experience; no substitution is available for this specific position.
Valid driver's license.
Must be a Tennessee resident or become one within six months of employment.

Nice To Haves

Experience with a Metropolitan Government structure, operations, and budget process.
Experience leading small teams or project groups.
Ability to work with upper management and leadership teams.

Responsibilities

Provide high-level administrative and managerial support to the Department Director.
Consult with the Director or designee on personnel, budget, fiscal, and operational matters.
Serve as a liaison between the Director and staff, Metro agencies, elected officials, the press, and the community.
Interpret and disseminate information on behalf of leadership.
Prepare sensitive, complex, and analytical reports to support decision-making.
Conduct special studies and present recommendations for improvements.
Coordinate activities across divisions to support seamless operations.
Investigate and resolve complaints, ensuring timely follow-up and effective solutions.
Assist in developing and implementing departmental rules, policies, and procedures.
Participate in management or union meetings, including researching grievances and requests.
Attend meetings and hearings on behalf of departmental leadership.
Contribute to annual budget development and ongoing financial planning.