Capital Improvement Project Manager

Job Overview

Position Summary

GENERAL SUMMARY: Under general direction, the Capital Improvement Project Manager (CIPM) plans, coordinates, and implements capital projects for the City of Dubuque’s Public Works Department, including but not limited to streets, utilities, stormwater, and public facilities. This position serves as a liaison between Public Works, consultants, contractors, city departments, and community stakeholders to ensure the successful delivery of capital projects in alignment with the City’s Comprehensive Plan and budget priorities and performs other duties as assigned.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: Work in this class involves responsibility for leading, directing, coordinating, planning, and managing capital construction projects and core departmental operations, special projects, and facilities maintenance projects.  The employee in this class reports to the Public Works Director leads the Department’s capital and facilities projects. Working as an integral part of a team is vital to establishment of data driven, high performance division with a focus on outcomes. The Public Works Director provides general supervision, and the work and performance are reviewed and evaluated by the Public Works Director and are assessed though reports, conferences, and results achieved. The Public Works Capital Improvement Project Manager must exercise leadership, initiative, innovation, and a high level of judgment and discretion.

Job Duties

JOB DUTIES:

• Manage all phases of capital and infrastructure projects—including planning, budgeting, procurement, permitting, design, construction, operations integration, and turnover—for streets, utilities, stormwater, facilities, and other public assets.
• Oversee day-to-day public works operations related to streets, stormwater, fleet, traffic signals, lighting, and snow/ice/flood control.
• Lead cross-functional teams comprising internal operations staff, engineers, consultants, contractors, and stakeholders to ensure smooth delivery and sustained operation of public assets.
• Apply advanced knowledge of public works operations and systems management to align long-term capital planning with current and future operational needs.
• Plan and manage preventive maintenance, inspections, and operational schedules for city-owned infrastructure and facilities, including HVAC, electrical, and mechanical systems.
• Utilize enterprise asset management (EAM) and work order systems to manage operational performance, streamline workflows, and ensure data-driven asset lifecycle planning.
• Develop and track key performance indicators (KPIs) for both capital projects and ongoing public works operations to assess efficiency, safety, and effectiveness.
• Supervise and support operations teams in implementing safety procedures, technical protocols, and continuous improvement programs.
• Administer service agreements, maintenance contracts, construction documents, leases, and interdepartmental operational partnerships.
• Monitor vendor, contractor, and consultant performance for both project execution and operations support to ensure compliance and quality standards.
• Manage emergency operations response and coordination for snow, ice, and flood events, including pre-storm planning and post-event evaluation.
• Contribute to the development and management of the Public Works department’s operating and capital budgets, aligning expenditures with City Council goals.
• Lead or assist in departmental initiatives to optimize service delivery, streamline operational procedures, and modernize infrastructure systems.
• Support sustainability and resiliency in operations and capital investment by integrating energy efficiency, climate readiness, and long-term maintenance considerations.
• Prepare technical documentation, public outreach materials, staff reports, grant applications, and city council presentations.
• Foster interdepartmental and community partnerships promote transparency, accountability, and collaborative problem-solving in operations and infrastructure management.
• Serve as Acting Public Works Director in their absence.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Administration and Management: Strategic planning, resource allocation, staff coordination.
• Leadership: Independent and collaborative project leadership with a solutions-oriented approach.
• Workload Management: Prioritize multiple projects within scope, schedule, and budget.
• Engineering and Technology: Principles of civil engineering, construction, and infrastructure systems.
• Building and Construction: Methods, materials, life-cycle costing, and sustainability.
• Mathematical Reasoning & Visualization: Strong quantitative and spatial reasoning.
• Production & Processing: Project logistics, quality control, and asset lifecycle management.
• Public Safety & Security: Familiarity with risk management and workplace safety protocols.
• Critical Thinking & Problem Solving: Analytical and creative decision-making.
• Technology Skills: Proficient with GIS, project management tools, asset management systems, and Microsoft 365.
• Communication: Clear, concise oral and written communication.
• Active Learning & Listening: Receptive to feedback, adaptable, and proactive in development.

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, construction engineering technology, construction management, operations or facilities management, or a related field; OR
• Any equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ten (10) or more years of capital improvement project and facilities management experience.
• Possession of and ability to maintain a valid state driver’s license.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Registration as a Professional Engineer (PE) in Iowa.
• Project Management Certification (PMP or equivalent from a national industry organization).

Supplemental Information

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Work is performed year-round in various environments including office, field, and construction settings; involves walking on uneven terrain, climbing ladders/stairs, and occasionally lifting up to 25 pounds. Subject to inclement weather, noise, and confined spaces.

RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT:

• Establish principal residence within the corporate limits of the City of Dubuque or within 50 miles by the most direct route within two years of appointment.

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

SUPERVISORY STATUS: Administrative