The Park System Manager (Projects & Maintenance) provides leadership and strategic direction for the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of park facilities, infrastructure, and assets within the Waukesha County Park System. This position oversees capital project delivery, preventative and predictive maintenance programs, and the effective use of asset management technology to ensure long-term sustainability of park infrastructure.

The Manager leads cross-functional teams in developing and implementing capital and maintenance strategies aligned with County goals and budget priorities. The position works collaboratively with internal departments, consultants, contractors, and partner agencies to deliver high-quality projects on time and within budget while maintaining compliance with County, State, and Federal regulations.

This role emphasizes strategic capital planning, lifecycle cost analysis, process improvement, and data-driven decision-making to support the County’s mission of providing safe, well-maintained, and innovative park facilities for the community.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the planning, design, and execution of capital improvement and maintenance projects across the Park System, ensuring adherence to schedule, budget, and quality standards.
• Oversee the County’s asset management program (Brightly Asset Essentials), including asset inventory, preventative maintenance, and performance reporting to inform resource allocation and capital planning.
• Manage the development and monitoring of annual and multi-year capital budgets; perform cost-benefit and lifecycle analyses to support data-driven decisions.
• Ensure compliance with procurement laws, construction regulations, environmental standards, and safety requirements in all project and maintenance activities.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and mentoring to staff in project management, maintenance operations, and continuous improvement.
• Foster innovation and process efficiency through the application of LEAN principles, technology integration, and workflow improvements.
• Collaborate with intergovernmental, nonprofit, and private partners to advance shared facility and infrastructure goals.
• Develop and maintain clear communication channels with leadership, staff, and stakeholders to ensure transparency and alignment on priorities, timelines, and project outcomes.
• Promote a culture of accountability, safety, and excellence by applying data analytics, performance metrics, and proactive risk management practices.
• Serve as a contributing member of the Parks and Land Use management team, supporting department-wide initiatives and cross-divisional collaboration.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Relevant experience in planning, design, construction, and maintenance of park or public infrastructure systems.
• Demonstrated experience with capital budgeting, cost estimating, and lifecycle cost analysis.
• Proficiency with asset management and work order software (Brightly Asset Essentials or equivalent).
• Experience managing public procurement, contract administration, and regulatory compliance processes.
• Knowledge of environmental and safety standards, including ADA, OSHA, and DNR regulations.
• Familiarity with GIS mapping, data analytics, and project management software (e.g., MS Project).
• Certification or training in LEAN process improvement, project management (PMP), or facilities management (CFM).

Key Competencies and Leadership Skills:

• Strong organizational and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to balance short-term maintenance needs and long-term capital goals.
• Financial acumen with ability to perform cost-benefit and alternative analyses to inform resource allocation.
• Demonstrated leadership through coaching, mentoring, and supporting staff development and succession planning.
• Skilled in building collaboration and trust with staff, contractors, and community partners.
• Clear and concise communicator with the ability to present technical information to diverse audiences.
• Commitment to continuous improvement, innovation, and accountability in service delivery.
• Emotional intelligence and professionalism in navigating complex issues and stakeholder needs.