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 roughly $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.

If you believe you are the ideal candidate for this role, please visit the Lee County Careers page at  to submit your application.

• 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.

• 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.