ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER OF OPERATIONS

Company: City of Worcester
Location: Worcester
Posted on: May 28, 2025

Job Description:

ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER OF OPERATIONS
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
CITY OF WORCESTER
The City of Worcester is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Assistant Commissioner of Operations for the Street Operations, Sanitation Operations and Central Garage Divisions within the Department of Public Works (DPW). Under the direction of the Commissioner of Public Works, the position is responsible for leading and managing the functions and employees within these key divisions. This position will be responsible for the operations related to but not limited to snow and ice operations, refuse collection, leaf collection, maintenance of traffic control devices, central garage and the maintenance and upkeep of streets, bridges, sidewalks for the City of Worcester. The Assistant Commissioner of Operations is responsible for division planning, budget administration, and the administration of department and City policies, programs and procedures.
Bilingual and multilingual applicants are encouraged to apply.
ESSENTIAL TASKS:

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• Responsible for the effective direction and administration of operational programs and functions of DPW including but not limited to snow and ice operations, and the maintenance of streets, sanitation, and the central garage
  
• Responsible for analyzing program objectives, determining the necessary work operations to meet goals, and estimating the financial and staff resources required for their successful execution
  
• Recommend and evaluate program goals and develop plans for achieving short and long-term objectives, determine organizational structure, operating guidelines and work operations
  
• Coordinate program efforts within the division and with other departments
  
• Oversee the personnel function within the designated divisions and participate in the hiring, training and professional development of division staff. Ensure the designated divisions comply with disciplinary policies, addresses performance or behavioral issues when they arise and recommend appropriate actions
  
• Formulate, prepare and defend budget and manpower requests, and account for the effective use of funds and staff provided
  
• Represent the department in collective bargaining and handle labor grievances
  
• Ensure the designated divisions in compliance with standards, policies and statutory provisions
  
• Assist designated division Directors with supervisory decisions related to workload, cost analysis, records and reports, budget requests and adequate staffing for priority assignments or projects
  
• Attend and participate in staff, department or other meetings, conferences, committees, or task forces
  
• Maintain professional relationships to stay informed about trends and developments within relevant fields or areas of expertise
  
• Other duties as assigned, which may include operational oversight of other DPW Divisions, special projects, special crews, consultants, or contractors
  
  SECONDARY ELEMENTS:
  
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  • Answer citizen complaints and inquiries
    
  • Prepare a variety of records, reports, documents, and analyses for the Commissioner of DPW
    
  • Perform other related duties as assigned
    
    REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
    
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    • Extensive knowledge of DPW division operations and services provided with an ability to conduct and oversee major public works programs
      
    • Extensive knowledge of street maintenance, sanitation, snow removal methods, equipment needs and building and road maintenance
      
    • Ability to plan, coordinate and direct large scale labor operations and to lay out and supervise the activities involved in the operations of a modern public works department
      
    • Experience with third party contract oversight
      
    • Ability to do technical research, compile records and reports, assist with the development of budget requests and make recommendations for the practical application of findings
      
    • Knowledge of office software, including MS office suite and specialized software
      
    • A strong working knowledge of city geography, engineering aptitude skills
      
    • Knowledge of public procurement processes, including bid preparation, vendor management, and contract administration
      
    • Ability to work independently and take initiative
      
    • Ability to remain positive and tactfully resolve concerns of the public
      
    • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, city officials, the general public, external stakeholders, businesses in the City, as well as State and/or Federal regulatory authorities
      
    • Ability to administer an operating budget and implement financial management practices
      
    • Ability to prepare cost estimates, specifications, reports, contracts, and review plans and documents
      
    • Ability to think strategically and make decisions that balance short-term needs with long-term goals, ensuring the sustainability and growth of city infrastructure
      
    • Ability to mentor, train, and develop staff, and foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement, while ensuring that team members are equipped to meet departmental objectives
      
    • Ability to prioritize tasks, delegate responsibilities effectively, and manage multiple projects simultaneously
      
    • Ability to make public presentations, explaining technical concepts to diverse audiences, including other City departments and officials, boards, committees, community members and elected officials
      
    • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, especially as they relate to internal and external communication regarding municipal projects
      
    • Effective supervisory and leadership skills
      
      MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
      
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      • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or related field
        
      • Seven (7) years of related work experience in public works or related field
        
      • Five (5) years of supervisory experience
        
      • Valid MA Driver's License
        
        PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
        
        • 
          
        • Master's degree in Civil Engineering or related field
          
        • Ten (10) years of related work experience in a public works or related field
          
        • Professional Engineering (PE) License. Registration in the State of Massachusetts is preferred
          
        • Seven (7) years of experience in municipal procurement and budgeting
          
        • Seven (7) years of supervisory experience
          
        • Seven (7) years of experience in project management
          
        • Five (5) years of operational work experience in a municipality
          
          SALARY RANGE: $110,325 - $156,907 annually, full-time, exempt, with an excellent benefits package
          To apply, please visit: www.worcesterma.gov/employment or send resume and cover letter to: City of Worcester, 455 Main Street, Room 109, Worcester, MA 01608. OPEN UNTIL FILLED, applications received prior to or on FRIDAY, MAY 23, 2025, will receive preference. Preference is given to Worcester residents. The City of Worcester is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply. Direct inquiries to: City Hall, Human Resources, Room 109, 508-799-1030, Hiring@worcesterma.gov.

Keywords: City of Worcester, Cambridge , ASSISTANT COMMISSIONER OF OPERATIONS, Other , Worcester, Massachusetts