Director Of Research Operations Jobs in Tacoma, WA

Position Description

Tacoma Water is seeking an experienced and collaborative Operations Support Manager to lead critical operational support functions for Maintenance & Construction. This position provides strategic leadership and oversight for warehouse operations and procurement, fleet maintenance management, mobile workforce management systems, budget administration, and operational support programs that enable field crews to safely and effectively maintain Tacoma Water's infrastructure.

This role oversees represented and non-represented staff, with 3 direct reports, while ensuring the people, equipment, materials, technology, and processes necessary for field operations are available, reliable, and aligned with Tacoma Water's mission. The Operations Support Manager plays a key role in sustaining efficient water system operations through effective operational planning, resource management, and continuous improvement.

• Lead and supervise multiple operational support teams, providing coaching, performance management, workforce planning, employee development, and succession planning for represented and non-represented employees.
• Provide strategic oversight of warehouse operations, including procurement, inventory management, materials distribution, and warehouse safety to support construction and maintenance activities.
• Manage mobile workforce management programs, systems, and technologies, ensuring effective support, training, process improvement, and operational alignment for field employees and mobile work applications.
• Oversee fleet maintenance programs by monitoring vehicle and equipment performance, evaluating lifecycle needs, managing repair and replacement strategies, and ensuring fleet readiness for field operations.
• Develop, administer, and monitor operating and capital budgets; analyze expenditures and forecasts; prepare financial reports; and provide recommendations to support sound fiscal stewardship.
• Direct procurement and contract management activities, including preparation of solicitations, vendor coordination, equipment acquisitions, service contracts, and invoice approvals to support uninterrupted operations.
• Collaborate with Information Technology, Utility Technology Services, Financial Services, and other internal partners to implement operational improvements, resolve system issues, and support strategic initiatives.
• Identify operational risks and improvement opportunities, develop mitigation strategies, and participate in cross-functional teams, asset management initiatives, continuous improvement efforts, and organizational planning activities.

Qualifications

Selection Process & Supplemental Information

City of Tacoma Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

At the City of Tacoma, we're on a mission to make our workforce as diverse and inclusive as the community we serve. We're committed to eliminating racial and other disparities, and we actively seek out candidates from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. Join our team at the City of Tacoma and help us build a more vibrant, inclusive, and equitable community for all.

The City of Tacoma believes that diversity of thought, background, and experience contributes to our success and innovation. If you’re passionate about this role and our mission, we encourage you to apply. If you have a less traditional background, we want to hear about your transferrable skills and experience. We value a variety of perspectives and are excited to see what you bring to the table.

Interested individuals should apply online by completing the application and attaching a resume and cover letter by the closing date and time listed on the job announcement. Applications received without attaching the required materials may not progress in the selection process.

Get Assistance

For assistance with the application process or questions regarding this job announcement please contact the Human Resources office at (253) 591-5400 by 4:00 p.m. of the closing date of the job announcement.

For technical difficulties using the NEOGOV system, call the applicant support line at 1-855-524-5627 between 6:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. This will allow us to assist you before the job announcement closes.

Communication with the City of Tacoma

We primarily communicate via email during the application process. Emails from Tacoma.gov and/or governmentjobs.com should be placed on your safe domain list to ensure that you receive notifications in a timely manner. As a precaution, you may also want to check your junk email folders.