Public Works Business Services Manager in Pullman, Washington at City of Pullman

GENERAL PURPOSE

Manages and coordinates the Business Management Division within the Public Works Department, overseeing department-wide communications, procurement, contracting, accounts payable and receivable, utility billing, information systems, and administrative support.

CLASSIFICATION SUMMARY

Responsible for directing and supervising the department’s business operations, including department policy development, budget management, fiscal planning, and staff oversight. Manages the department’s procurement and contracts program. Fosters a productive work environment. Administers utility billing, and manages business information systems. This role requires independence, initiative, and discretion within established guidelines.

• Reports to the Public Works Director
• Active member of the Public Works Leadership Team

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Strengthen partnerships with city residents, city departments, vendors, and contractors.
• Oversee customer service functions and public communications, including promotional content.
• Establishes policy, operating procedures, and work flows to ensure efficient operations and consistent outcomes.
• Assist the Finance Department with utility billing implementation and account maintenance.
• Manage procurement and contracting, including bid publications, purchasing, and compliance.
• Oversee business systems such as Asset Management, fuel monitoring, and collaboration tools.
• Manage vehicle amortization, vehicle and equipment procurement, and inter-fund charge rates in coordination with the Fleet Manager.
• Assist with policy development, budgeting, and labor negotiations.
• Assemble and prepare departmental budgets for approval and implementation.
• Monitor and evaluate departmental budget execution and advise the Public Works Leadership Team of trends impacting the budget.
• Assemble and prepare departmental Capital Improvement Plans for approval and implementation.
• Monitor and evaluate departmental Capital Improvement Plan execution and advise the Public Works Leadership Team of trends impacting successful execution.
• Supervise and evaluate staff performance, mentoring and enforcing disciplinary actions.
• Determine staffing needs, budgets, and conduct cost-benefit analyses.
• Respond to public inquiries, investigate complaints, and recommend corrective actions.
• Train staff, ensure policy compliance, and review regulatory changes.
• Approve leave requests and timesheets.
• Manage departmental content for the City website.
• Maintain records per regulatory requirements.
• Attend leadership team meetings, training sessions, and contribute to division success.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of:

• Employee supervision principles
• Governmental accounting and budget administration
• Management information systems
• Federal, state, and local regulations
• Contract administration and modern office practices

Ability to:

• Develop and implement policies, goals, and procedures
• Understand public works divisional missions and operations
• Communicate effectively with staff, colleagues, and customers both orally and in writing.
• Lead, mentor, and evaluate staff performance
• Interpret and apply laws and regulations
• Analyze complex problems and develop solutions
• Manage multiple priorities and make sound decisions
• Operate modern office equipment and software
• Build and maintain positive working relationships

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in business management, accounting, or a related field
• Three years of progressively responsible business management experience, including two years of supervisory experience

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Primarily office-based with occasional physical activity for lifting supplies. Requires attention to detail for analyzing reports and monitoring staff. The role may involve working outside regular hours for emergencies.

The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change as the employer's needs and job requirements change.

FLSA Classification: Exempt

City Paid Benefits Include:

• 3 Insurance plans to choose from as low as $0 for spouse & all dependents – Plans with deductibles as low as $200; high deductible plan includes employer sponsored contribution to Health savings account.
• Vision & Dental Insurance with no cost sharing for employee & all dependents
• $15,000 Basic Life & Accidental Death & Dismemberment insurance
• Short Term Disability Insurance
• WA Department of Retirement - PERS2 or PERS3 plans
• Employee Assistance Program

Elective Benefits Include:

• WA Department of Retirement - Deferred Compensation Program
• Additional Life & Spouse Life Insurance
• Discounts on Life Flight Membership