Public Utilities Manager

We’re looking for a dynamic and forward-thinking Public Utilities Manager to help drive excellence in our countywide waste prevention and collection programs. In this pivotal role, you’ll guide multiple work groups, shape operational strategy, and ensure our community receives reliable, high-quality waste services every day. You’ll work closely with internal teams, external partners, and community stakeholders to strengthen service delivery, champion innovative waste prevention efforts, and lead key initiatives such as the County’s Illegal Dumping Task Force. This is an opportunity for a motivated, detail-oriented professional with strong leadership, communication, and analytical skills to make a meaningful impact on public service and environmental stewardship. What You'll Do Operational Leadership & Team Management Direct multiple operational work groups and oversee daily activities. Lead staff meetings, safety briefings, and contribute to department operational meetings. Oversee routine staff field inspections and ensure compliance with operational standards. Coordinate and conduct required health, safety, regulatory, and operational training. Lead and coordinate internal and external department staff during storm recovery operations to ensure an effective, organized, and timely response. Planning, Compliance & Program Oversight Lead operational planning and implementation of departmental goals and objectives. Ensure regulatory compliance across all waste prevention and collection programs. Oversee countywide waste prevention and franchise collection initiatives. Lead the County’s Illegal Dumping Task Force, ensuring effective investigation and prevention strategies. Contract & Vendor Management Develop, administer, and monitor franchise hauling agreements and operational contracts. Create scopes of work and monthly vendor performance reports. Ensure vendor compliance and high-quality service delivery through continuous performance monitoring. Budgeting & Administrative Management Manage budgeting, resource planning, and related operational processes. Ensure timely completion of required risk management documentation, accident reports, and incident investigations. Collaboration & Stakeholder Coordination Work closely with County departments, contractors, consultants, municipalities, regulatory agencies, elected officials, developers, and community stakeholders. Build and maintain effective working relationships with staff, contractors, and internal/external stakeholders at all organizational levels. Coordinate programs and resolve operational issues through effective communication and partnership. Technical & Analytical Skills Utilize Microsoft Office applications and database software to support planning, reporting, and analysis. Apply strong analytical, organizational, and project management skills to optimize operations. What We're Looking For Minimum Requirements Any combination of education and/or experience equivalent to: A bachelor's degree Business Administration, Engineering, Public Administration, Environmental Science, Logistics, Supply Chain Management or closely related field AND Two (2) years of experience in municipal solid waste operations, public works, environmental compliance or closely related field Licensing Requirement Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record Preferred Qualifications Experience supervising field teams, operational crews, or contracted service providers Experience administering operational contracts, franchise hauling agreements, or vendor performance programs Knowledge of federal, state, and local regulations related to solid waste, recycling, environmental compliance, or public works operations Demonstrated project management skills, including budgeting, planning, and coordinating multi-stakeholder initiatives Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, database systems, and operational reporting tools Strong analytical skills with experience using data to monitor performance, improve workflows, or solve operational problems Experience working with municipalities, regulatory agencies, contractors, or public-sector partners Experience participating in or leading illegal dumping mitigation or enforcement programs Work Schedule : Monday - Friday, 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM. Why Join Us? Make a meaningful impact by supporting essential community services that protect public health, improve service delivery, and enhance environmental stewardship across the County. Work in a dynamic, collaborative environment where your leadership, ideas, and problem-solving skills directly shape operational success. Take on a highly visible role that partners with multiple departments, municipalities, contractors, and community stakeholders. Grow professionally through hands-on program management, contract administration, regulatory compliance, and cross-department coordination. Lead initiatives such as the Illegal Dumping Task Force, giving you the opportunity to influence countywide strategies and improve community outcomes. Join a supportive team committed to innovation, continuous improvement, and high-quality public service. About the Department Lee County Solid Waste works to protect the environment and support a healthier community through responsible and efficient waste management. Our programs include curbside collection, recycling, hazardous waste drop-off, construction debris recycling, and composting operations. When you join our team, you help turn waste into valuable resources and support sustainability efforts across Lee County. About Lee County Lee County is located in beautiful Southwest Florida and is home to over 800,000 residents. We are dedicated to serving our community with high-quality services and a focus on sustainability and innovation. Join us in making Lee County a great place to live, work, and visit. Find out more about Lee County at Lee County Government .