Manager, Public Utilities Operations

The Lee County Solid Waste Department is seeking a Capital Planning and Maintenance Operations Manager to join our Fort Myers–based team. This position provides strategic leadership for the department’s comprehensive capital improvement and maintenance programs, encompassing multiple specialized waste processing and administrative facilities across more than seven locations in both Lee and Hendry Counties.

The incumbent will oversee an annual capital and maintenance budget of approximately $40 million and an annual operating budget of approximately $1 million, ensuring fiscal responsibility, operational efficiency, and alignment with departmental goals.

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in capital project planning and execution, enterprise asset management, financial planning, and team leadership and development. A demonstrated commitment to process improvement, innovation, and organizational growth is highly desirable.

Solid Waste is one of Lee County Government’s largest and most public-facing departments, dedicated to responsible waste management practices, environmental stewardship, and strategic growth through effective operational and capital project management.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Develops and oversees comprehensive maintenance and capital plans that align with departmental goals, operational needs, and available resources.
• Manages the development, review, and execution of the department’s five-year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and major maintenance programs.
• Coordinates project prioritization, scheduling, and resource allocation for ongoing and planned maintenance and capital initiatives.
• Establishes, implements, and enforces policies and procedures related to maintenance operations and construction standards.
• Oversees consultants, contractors, and engineering firms; assigns responsibilities and provides direction to supervisory and project management staff.
• Builds and maintains effective working relationships with County departments, external agencies, contractors, and community stakeholders.
• Utilizes enterprise asset management (EAM) systems and data-driven practices to manage maintenance operations, forecast future needs, and monitor performance.
• Provides leadership, training, mentoring, and professional development for technical and administrative staff.
• Ensures compliance with all applicable safety, health, and environmental regulations and standards.
• Oversees departmental financial performance, including formulating, managing, and monitoring budgets and operating metrics, and identifying opportunities for process improvement.
• Represents the department by participating in professional organizations, conferences, seminars, and committees to stay informed of best practices and emerging trends.
• Serves as part of the County’s emergency response operations as needed.
• Performs related work as assigned.

Education, Experience, Licensing

Qualifications:

• Education:
• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience:
• 3 years of experience in public utilities or a closely related industry.
• 1 year of supervisory experience.
• Driver's License: Possession of a valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record is required

An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered in place of the stated requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience: 5-7 years of experience in engineering, facilities maintenance, construction, or program management, with a focus on managing complex projects.
• Licensing: Professional Engineer (P.E.) license in Florida, or the ability to get licensed within 6 months of hiring.
• Leadership: Experience managing teams in solid waste or large public works organizations.
• Skills: Familiar with GIS software, project management tools, and asset management systems.
• Certifications (preferred): Certifications in planning, construction management, or facilities management (e.g., AICP, PMP, FMP).
• Relationship Building: Ability to work well with staff, contractors, and stakeholders at all levels.
• Legal Knowledge: Understanding of relevant laws, codes, and regulations.
• Organizational Skills: Able to plan, organize, and manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills.

EMERGENCY RESPONSE/RECOVERY ACTIVITIES:

All County employees are required to work before, during, or after an emergency as needed. This may include temporarily being assigned to work and performing duties outside of the normal scope of their position, location and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its citizens.

DISCLAIMER: The above information on this description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to this classification. All positions are subject to a criminal background check. A conviction in and of itself may not necessarily preclude employment. Some positions may be subject to a pre-employment drug screening. Certain service members and veterans, and the spouses and family members of such service members and veterans, who claim and meet eligibility requirements of veterans preference, receive preference and priority in employment and are encouraged to apply.