Assistant Commissioner for Operations

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT:

The Department of Public Works is a 250-person department of professional, technical, administrative and labor service employees, committed to providing dependable, high-quality services; developing a safe, healthy, livable environment; supporting and developing the work force; engaging the community and providing excellent customer service; and planning for a sustainable future.

The Assistant Commissioner for Operations is a key member of the leadership team at Public Works.  The Assistant Commissioner reports to the Commissioner and oversees eight operational divisions and functions for the department: Streets & Sewer Maintenance, Parks, Urban Forestry, Buildings, Solid Waste, Vehicle Maintenance, Cemetery, and Electrical.  Operational Division Heads for these eight divisions report directly to the Assistant Commissioner, and the Assistant Commissioner has delegated supervisory responsibility across the department.  

The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of public works services and public sector operations, strong leadership skills and professionalism, and a demonstrated ability to continuously improve operations and processes.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Oversees all aspects of day-to-day Public Works operations as well as all related budgeting, long-term planning, project management, and consultant and/or vendor contracts.

• Oversees winter storm operations, organizing salting, plowing, and/or snow hauling events.

• Leads a large operational team responsible for implementing multiple City initiatives, including the Urban Forest Master Plan, Zero Waste Master Plan, Cemetery Master Plan, and various capital improvements.

• Works to improve the overall effectiveness of all operations through enhanced coordination and effective use of resources, including strategic work to meet City climate, sustainability, and emissions-reduction goals.  

• Works closely and cooperatively with the Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner for Administration and Planning, and the Assistant Commissioner for Engineering. 

• Partners on all employee/labor relations matters, safety initiatives, and trainings within operating divisions.

• Represents the Commissioner and department before City Council, at community meetings, on internal City of Cambridge projects and/or leadership initiatives, and with external partners.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

REQUIREMENTS & QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, public works management, public administration or related field. Will consider an equivalent combination of relevant education and      experience.

• 8 years of experience in municipal public works, utilities and/or other multi-function public-sector organizations, with at least 5 years of increasingly responsible experience.

• Valid Class D driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree or P.E.

• Specialized knowledge and skills in engineering, construction, sewer maintenance, fleet maintenance, landscaping and parks, urban forestry, building or facility operations, electrical work, and/or managing winter/snow operations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of municipal public works and services.

• Knowledge of other City of Cambridge departments and the Cambridge community at large are a plus. 

• Knowledge of safety protocols, environmental, construction, and building codes and related compliance with Federal and State rules and regulations is crucial.

• Familiarity with capital and operating budgets and budget preparation/management.

• Excellent leadership, conflict resolution, and team-building skills.

• Strong oral and written communication skills.

• Experience working with unionized staff.

• Proficient computer skills for MS Office Suite applications and other software systems and applications supporting the department’s operations.

• Demonstrated ability to coordinate operations across multiple departments, groups or disciplines.

• High ethical standards, personal integrity, and ability to represent the department professionally at all times. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT: Standard office environment, which includes fluorescent lighting and air conditioning. Moderate noise level, which can elevate with phone calls and walk in members of the public. Busy office work environment characterized by multiple works demands from staff, a great deal of customer interaction, and heavy call volume.

Frequent field work/on-site meetings and engagements required. This position may be eligible for hybrid work under the City’s Telework Policy depending on operational needs.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Ability to access, input and retrieve information from a computer. Ability to operate office equipment including copiers, printers and scanners. Executes multiple tasks involving keyboarding, telephones, writing, bending, reaching and lifting boxes of files (up to 15 lbs).

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS:

Please upload the following documents to complete your application.

• Resume
• Cover letter