Superintendent - Trails & Greenway Operations (DPW)

About the Department

The Department of Public Works (DPW) in Indianapolis is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for residents by improving public spaces and infrastructure. DPW emphasizes the development of connected, accessible, and well-maintained green spaces and public areas, fostering partnerships and ensuring efficient city operations, including waste management and fleet maintenance. The team values a collaborative, productive, and compliant work environment to better serve the community of Indianapolis and Marion County.

Position Overview

This role assumes full responsibility for managing all aspects of operational maintenance within a designated district, particularly focused on parks, trails, and public spaces. You will oversee the allocation of resources, including personnel, vehicles, equipment, and budgets, as well as organizational hiring, development, and supervision for your team. The position will require significant independent judgment and decision-making, often without established policies for reference. Reporting is to the Administrator of Operations, and the role directly impacts the City’s reputation and operational effectiveness.

Key Responsibilities

• Directly manage, coordinate, and oversee maintenance programs for parks, trails, sidewalks, and related facilities.
• Supervise and evaluate the performance and output of staff members, ensuring high-quality and efficient work, as well as timely resolution of complaints.
• Responsible for budgeting and allocation of district resources, monitoring funds use, and ensuring cost-effective operations.
• Foster positive working relationships with union representatives and city staff.
• Create a productive, safe, and respectful work environment, promoting teamwork and compliance with city hiring and employment policies.
• Collaborate with leadership to address situations which may affect public perception of city maintenance efforts.
• Set work schedules, establish priorities, and review completed work to ensure goals are met.
• Conduct training, performance counseling, and disciplinary procedures as appropriate.
• Maintain confidentiality in professional matters at all times.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by management.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field is required; degrees in business or operations management are preferred. Alternatively, a combined total of nine years of related education and/or work experience is acceptable.
• Minimum of five years of increasing responsibility in a similar environment, including at least two years in a supervisory capacity.
• Comprehensive knowledge of applicable local, state, and federal regulations and best practices in public works and facilities management.
• Ability to plan, supervise, and direct operational maintenance, with experience in overseeing teams working in street and park maintenance.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and office management systems.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and spoken, and the capacity to handle stressful or emergent situations professionally.
• Outstanding multitasking, prioritization, and independent work abilities, while also thriving in collaborative team settings.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license is required.

Working Conditions

• The role involves both office-based work and frequent site visits to outdoor city and park locations.
• Exposure to dirt, dust, various odors, and changing weather conditions should be expected.
• Position requires flexibility to work up to twelve-hour shifts, especially during emergency weather events.

Physical Requirements

• Majority of tasks involve sitting at a desk or workstation with periods of computer use.
• Occasional light lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling (5-10 pounds).
• Ability to communicate verbally, perceive sounds, and respond to visual signals.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The City of Indianapolis and Marion County are committed to providing equal employment opportunities. Applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. Diversity in perspective and background is valued.

Additional Information

After application, all further screening and communication will occur directly with the hiring agency. Official employment offers will be extended by city HR only upon selection of a successful candidate.