ASSISTANT MUNICIPAL SERVICES AND OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

The City of Lawrence is a vibrant, progressive municipality committed to serving its residents through innovative and dedicated public services. Nestled in northeastern Kansas, Lawrence is known for its rich cultural heritage, educational institutions, and forward-thinking governance. With a focus on sustainable growth, infrastructure development, and community engagement, the City of Lawrence has earned a reputation for excellence in municipal management and public works. Their Municipal Services and Operations department plays a pivotal role in maintaining and improving the city’s infrastructure, ensuring that residents benefit from well-planned, efficient, and responsive services. This department oversees a diverse range of functions from engineering and construction to asset management and transportation planning, all aimed at enhancing the quality of life for the community.

The City of Lawrence is currently seeking a committed and compassionate individual to join their Municipal Services and Operations team as the Assistant Municipal Services and Operations Director. This full-time position offers the opportunity to engage in meaningful projects while leading a dynamic group of engineering and technical staff. The Assistant Director will be responsible for managing, supervising, and coordinating programs and projects within the Construction Management, Engineering, and Development (CMED) division. Key functions include capital delivery, infrastructure planning, and project execution. This role demands a professional adept at resolving sensitive issues involving citizens, the City Manager’s Office, and other departments, as well as skillful coordination with external agencies.

The ideal candidate will oversee multiple divisions including engineering, construction, fiber/ROW, ADA compliance, transportation planning, asset management, and GIS. They will lead the development and execution of the City’s Capital Improvement Program, ensuring all projects align with regulatory requirements, risk assessments, and sustainability goals. Delivering complex capital projects on time, within budget, and according to operational necessities will be a critical part of the role. Continuous evaluation and improvement of project delivery and management systems aim to enhance efficiency and public satisfaction.

Additional responsibilities encompass procurement processes such as RFQ/RFP preparation, contract negotiation, and consultant selection. The Assistant Director will provide executive oversight for engineering standards, design review, and construction quality assurance, advising city leadership on infrastructure investments, capital programming, and policy decisions. Acting as a liaison for MSO Division projects and programs, preparing detailed reports and presentations for city officials, and resolving complex infrastructure-related issues play crucial parts in this capacity.

Focused on internal leadership and team development, the position requires strategic planning, resource allocation, and performance evaluation to cultivate a skilled workforce. The candidate will manage department budgets and forecast needs, ensuring fiscal responsibility. Effective collaboration with community groups, federal and state agencies, and other departments underscores the role’s significance in advancing the city’s infrastructure and public service objectives. This position also offers professional growth through participation in industry meetings and staying abreast of trends. The City of Lawrence provides a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, life insurance, generous paid leave, and retirement plans, making this an attractive career opportunity for those passionate about public service and municipal operations.