Assistant Director

Under the general guidance of the Director of Public Works, play a key role in managing, planning, organizing, and directing activities within the Department of Public Works. Exercise considerable professional judgment and initiative within the established regulatory framework, policies, and procedures. Responsibilities encompass the oversight of various operations, including sanitation, street maintenance, fleet management, building oversight, parks maintenance, capital improvement project management, workplace administration, and budgetary management.

This is a summary of major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this job.

• Operational Leadership:
  Assist in directing the overall operations, employees, programs, projects, and activities within the Department of Public Works. Provide valuable recommendations for the preparation and implementation of department budgets, capital improvement plans, and relevant master plans, aligning with standard operating procedures and department priorities.
• Strategic Planning and Analysis:
  Conduct comprehensive research and prepare detailed management reports. Perform departmental analyses for various facilities, offering insights to enhance operational efficiency.
• Record Management and System Utilization:
  Propose, analyze, and design departmental record-keeping procedures to streamline record management. Leverage computer information systems to maintain and effectively utilize department databases.
• Personnel Management:
  Participate in personnel matters, including interviewing and selecting employees, appraising productivity and efficiency, reviewing performance evaluations, and offering guidance. Handle employee complaints and contribute to fostering a positive work environment.
• Operational Oversight:
  Review and monitor sanitation, street, and fleet maintenance operations within the city. Provide hands-on oversight of all capital improvement projects to ensure successful execution.
• Work Schedule:
  
  On-call availability as needed, 24/7/365, reflecting a commitment to ensuring continuous operational readiness and responsiveness to emergency situations.
• Budgetary Stewardship:
  Assist in preparing the annual department budget and maintain fiscal responsibility in budget management.
• Communication and Presentation:
  Prepare and present staff reports, presentations, and other pertinent information to City Council, boards, commissions, and interested citizen groups.
• Citizen Interaction:
  Resolve and respond to citizen complaints or inquiries regarding public works programs and operations. Conduct field inspections of work in progress or upon completion to ensure quality and compliance.
• Compliance:
  Adhere to all written City policies, procedures, and ordinances, and ensure alignment with regulatory standards.
• Emergency Preparedness:
  During emergency conditions, be prepared to respond to disaster situations such as snowstorms or other emergencies. Perform emergency service duties as assigned, showcasing dedication to public service and the City of East Chicago.

This briefly outlines the major duties and responsibilities of the position, highlighting key areas of focus and the commitment to operational excellence and community service.

Associates' or Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university, a minimum of work experience of two years in municipal government performing similar work; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Any work-related experience resulting in acceptable proficiency levels in the above qualification may be an acceptable substitute for the above-specified education experience requirements.

• Possession of a valid driver’s license.
• CPR & First Aid Certifications or within six months

• Comprehensive Screening:
  Successful employment contingent on passing a thorough drug (hair) test, ensuring a commitment to a drug-free workplace.
• Background Check:
  Subject to a rigorous background check to verify suitability for the role, ensuring alignment with the standards and expectations of the City of East Chicago.