Executive Director of Public Works

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We have an exciting opportunity for the Executive Director of Public Works to join a northern and busy municipality. Reporting to the Chief Administrative Officer, the Executive Director of Public Works will be responsible for planning, overseeing, and organizing all aspects of the Public Works Department. This includes the areas of Engineering, Maintenance, Water & Wastewater, Fleet Vehicles, Airports, Bridges, and Roads and is the largest department within the County. The Executive Director will have six (6) direct reports and will lead a team that includes the Executive Assistant, Shop Manager, Utilities Manager, Transportation Manager, Facilities & Solid Waste Manager, and Manager of Agricultural Services. The position is a vital member of the Senior Management team and a trusted leader within the organization and community.

IDEAL CANDIDATE

We are looking for a leader that can coach and mentor a large team, someone that can also be hands on as required, yet strategic and politically savvy as they will be working with a diverse group of stakeholders such as contractors, rate payers, regulator bodies, government, and Mayor and Council. Asset management and procurement experience would also be advantageous.

THE ORGANIZATION

Big Lakes County is home to 26,957 hectares of park and protected natural assets that offer a variety of outdoor activities for locals and visitors alike. Big Lakes County boasts a stunning natural landscape with the third largest lake in the province, Lesser Slave Lake. The surrounding Lesser Slave Lake Wildland is home to diverse wildlife and important habitats, making it a prime spot for birdwatching, hiking, and camping. Winagami Lake Provincial Park & Wildland, Hilliard's Bay Provincial Park, and Little Smoky Ski Area add to the outdoor adventures, including skiing and snowshoeing in winter. Big Lakes County intends to fulfill their mission by investing in core services like infrastructure, communities, and other municipal services. Through Council policy and resolutions, they will promote responsible development, environmental security, and positive intermunicipal relations with our private, public and governmental partners.

Also, Big Lakes County, through their Council’s leadership, satisfies their vision by striving to build and diversify their economy and strengthen Big Lakes County’s role as a leader of rural municipalities. They will strive for sustainability and set the stage for continued innovation, education, diversification, and good government, and by maintaining the rural landscape in Big Lakes County, they will be protecting agricultural resources and significant natural environments for future generations.

Mission

Enhance their community by encouraging responsible development that supports their agricultural and resource-based industries.

• As part of the Municipality’s Senior Management Team, participates in setting priorities and implementing the Municipality’s Strategic Plan and the management of corporate goals consistent with Council’s policies.
• Ensures that all municipal services are delivered effectively and efficiently.
• Assists the CAO in determining short and long-term organizational plans through design, maintenance, and review of all aspects of the department.
• Oversees the Municipality’s infrastructure and capital construction programs.
• Develops Municipal standards and ensures the application of these standards; monitors processes and facilitates the resolution of problematic issues; and directs the development of engineering and operational strategies.
• Monitors, reviews, and evaluates administrative and service delivery, focusing on best practices.
• Prepares monthly reports and presents to Council on service delivery changes, programs, and performance enhancements.
• Makes presentations and provides advice and guidance on plans and strategies related to engineering studies and regulatory requirements.
• Makes recommendations on the hiring of consultants and contractors to assist with or undertake major departmental projects and studies.
• Supervises consultants and contractors and oversees the administration of agreements in accordance with Municipal bylaws, policies, and procedures.
• Responsible for the development and implementation of budgets and presents these to Senior Management and Council.
• Coordinates development of asset management plans within the various sections of the Department to set priorities, allocate resources and deliver results in accordance with the overall organizational strategic vision.
• Establishes and maintains strong relationships with colleagues, elected officials, external agencies, and the community.
• Ensures that approved policies and procedures, including records documentation and retention, are observed, and adhered to by all sections and employees within the Public Works Department.
• Attends Council and committee meetings, responds to queries, advises, and communicates on Public Works Department matters.
• Implements Council directives and decisions with follow-up on implementation and corrective actions as required.
• Minimizes risks for the Department’s physical assets.
• Directs best practice solutions for all transportation and road network components (roads, bridges, equipment, buildings, etc.) for construction, maintenance, and design.
• Oversight of water and wastewater supply and distribution system components in consultation with the Utilities Manager.
• Oversight of agricultural services in consultation with the Manager of Agricultural Services.
• Conducts employee performance reviews and appraisals and encourages employee training for current responsibilities and future succession planning initiatives.
• Assists with employee interviews, recruitment, organizational changes and hiring process as required.
• In conjunction with the CAO and Human Resources, supports and resolves employee disputes and disciplinary matters as they arise from within the department.
• Ensures an inclusive, successful, and collaborative organizational culture while supporting a learning environment and positive employee relationships.
• Encourages all staff to seek efficiencies, continuous improvement and innovation in the operation and services provided by the Public Works Department.
• When the CAO is absent, the Executive Director of Public Works may perform Acting CAO duties.
• Perform any other duties as may be required by the CAO.

QUALIFICATIONS

• An engineering degree or diploma with a professional engineering designation (such as P.Eng., R.E.T., or C.E.T.)
• 7+ years of experience in a municipal leadership position.
• An understanding of the Municipal Government Act (MGA) and other relevant provincial or federal legislation is very beneficial.
• Knowledge of engineering requirements for technical solutions and maintenance requirements of municipal infrastructure.
• Computer literacy utilizing word processing, geographic information systems, global positioning systems, computer-assisted design and drafting, asset management programs, spreadsheet and presentation software, and the internet.
• Superior project management, facilitation, communication, and presentation skills.
• Able to work independently or on a team working on multiple, complex, and diverse projects.
• Criminal Records Check.
• Provide current 5-year drivers abstract.
• Valid Class 5 Drivers License.

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Ability to develop and implement long-term plans to achieve organizational goals efficiently.
• Strong leadership skills to inspire and motivate teams, while fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.
• Knowledge of operational processes and best practices to streamline workflows and optimize resource utilization.
• Understanding of financial principles and budgeting to effectively manage resources and drive profitability.
• Capacity to identify challenges, analyze root causes, and implement effective solutions to improve operational performance.
• Excellent communication skills to convey complex ideas clearly, both verbally and in writing, with staff, Council, and County residents.
• Sound judgment and decision-making abilities to prioritize tasks, allocate resources, and mitigate risks effectively.

Alternatively, you can apply online through the following links: