Manatee Utilities Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Salary: $112,595.59 - $185,782.73 Annually
Location : Bradenton, FL
Job Type: Full-Time (Salaried)
Job Number: 26-00244
Department: Utilities
Opening Date: 05/01/2026
Closing Date: 6/5/2026 12:00 PM Eastern
General Information
Work Location: 3647 Cortez Road West, Bradenton, Florida 34210
Work Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Expected Starting Salary Range: $112,595.59 - $149,189.16
This classification performs advanced managerial and administrative activities of considerable difficulty in the management of business operations for the Utilities Department, including, but not limited to analyzing and coordinating complex projects, departmental legal matters, facility investment fee administration, technology, contractual and administrative matters. Develops and guides innovative programs in conjunction with all divisions within Utilities. Represents the Utilities Director in meetings with internal and external stakeholders. Leads projects and initiatives that cut across multiple divisions in the Department. Directs a comprehensive public affairs program for Utilities in coordination with County Information Outreach Office by planning, developing and implementing communication programs to build goodwill in the community and establish a high level of credibility with consumers, lawmakers, officials, regulators, and the media. Oversees private utility transfer process including negotiation, internal review and communication of legal documents to the County Attorney's Office, and preparation and submittal of documents for approval by County Commissioners. Serves as the primary liaison for Utilities Department for all Utilities-based capital improvement projects.
Note: This position is designated by the Manatee County Board of County Commissioners as serving at the will and pleasure of the County Administrator. Employment in this position is at will and may be terminated at any time, with or without cause or notice, in accordance with applicable federal and state laws. Nothing in this job posting, any application materials, or any related communications shall be construed to create a contract of employment or to limit the County Administrator's authority to terminate the appointment at any time, with or without cause and with or without prior notice, subject only to applicable law.
Employment screenings, as outlined in the Personnel Policy, Rules, and Procedures Manual, will be conducted in compliance with applicable federal and Florida Laws.
Working Conditions
The work environment may include exposure to high noise levels while performing certain essential job functions. The position requires the ability to lift and move objects weighing up to 50 pounds independently and up to 100 pounds with assistance, with or without reasonable accommodation. Work may involve strenuous physical activity under varying climatic conditions and in both indoor and outdoor environments
Job Description
Job Duties
Essential Functions
These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position.
Directs activities and provides leadership and organizational management of the Utilities public affairs, private utilities transfers, emergency operations, and serves as the primary liaison with other Departments for Utilities focused capital improvement projects.
Ensures adherence to applicable laws, regulations, rules, policies and procedures, and that goals, objectives and standards are met in a timely and effective manner.
Prepares evaluation of policy options in support of management initiatives and ensuring compliance with County rules and regulations. Directs research, analysis and proposed recommendations to solve complex operational issues.
Coordinates with the County Attorney's Office on business related matters.
Conducts policy analysis. Drafts and reviews responses to proposed rules, legislation, and regulatory changes.
Recommends legislative and communications strategies for both internal and external agencies. Develops recommendations on issues related to local, state, regional, and federal intergovernmental relations.
Directs the development, implementation and revision of departmental policy and planning processes with the Director, Deputy Directors and other divisional managers.
Manages, drafts, and reviews legal documents for the Department including ordinances, leases, and agreements.
Coordinates development of Department's emergency services plans with the County's Emergency Management Division, health officials, Sheriff's office, EMS, fire, and other emergency response groups.
Functions as Incident Manager for department emergency operations in cooperation with the County Emergency Operations Center (EOC). Emergency operational areas include the County EOC, field incident site, or designated departmental Incident Command Post(s).
Personnel responsibilities include preparing performance evaluations for direct reports and establishing section/program goals and objectives, conducting staff meetings, and reviewing performance evaluations for all indirect reports' preparing and reviewing job descriptions and career ladders; interviewing and selecting new hires for direct reports and other supervisory positions in the division' dealing with employee discipline matters as needed.
Negotiates or participates in negotiation and administration of contracts and agreements related to division projects.
Importance of being accurate, and decisive within short timeframes, and under pressure from internal and external sources.
Makes presentations to the Board of County Commissioners, various citizen groups and the general public, as necessary.
Performs other related duties as assigned, including participation in emergency or disaster response activities, as required and consistent with the employee's qualifications, essential job functions, and appliable federal and Florida law.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or related engineering field.
Eight (8) or more years of progressively responsible experience in a public sector public works environment to include at least four (4) years of management experience.
Valid Florida driver's license within 30 days of hire.
Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered in meeting the minimum qualifications for this position.
More
Supplemental Information
Highly desired registered as a Professional Engineer in the State of Florida or must obtain registration through reciprocity within 6 months of hire.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Strong organization, prioritization, analytical, and problem-solving skills to effectively manage area of responsibility and attain goals set. Able to resolve difficult and complex problems and situations.
Strong knowledge of capital improvement programming and comprehensive planning.
Strong knowledge of modern engineering standard of care criteria, current literature, and sources of information in the area of public works engineering.
Strong knowledge and understanding of regulatory compliance necessary to successfully perform job responsibilities, including Land Development Codes, Comprehensive Plans, and FEMA regulations applicable to transportation, transportation engineering, project management, construction, and engineering processes.
Strong knowledge and understanding of computer systems and software applications required to perform job responsibilities.
Strong verbal and written communication skills and interpersonal skills, including public presentation skills, in order to interact professionally and effectively with staff, elected officials, business leaders, the general public, and government regulators. Able to influence others regarding policies, practices, and procedures.
Ability to handle multiple projects at the same time and perform duties effectively and efficiently in a high stress, fast paced environment.
Ability to exercise mature judgment and to make independent decisions in accordance with established department or division policies and procedures.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with colleagues, other County departments and agencies, County officials, employees and the public.
Excellent public relations and presentation skills.
Superior communication and public speaking skills.
High level skills in computer operations and pertinent software applications.
Veterans Preference
In accordance with Florida Statute 295.07, F.S., Chapter 55A-7, priority consideration in employment will be given to eligible veterans and spouses of disabled veterans. Applicants claiming preference must provide a DD Form 214 or other acceptable documentation with their application. We are committed to honoring the service and sacrifices of our veterans and their families.
EEO/ADA Statement
Manatee County Government is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you require any accommodations to participate in the recruitment process, please contact Human Resources at 941-748-4501 x 3865.
Drug-Free Workplace
Manatee County Government is a drug-free workplace in accordance with Federal and Florida Law.
Emergency Response/Recovery Activities
All employees may be required to work before, during, or after an emergency. During an emergency, employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location, and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its citizens.
Full Time Positions
Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

• ComPsych- offers all employees and their family members with emotional, financial, legal, and work/life balance support.
• LAMP counselors available for personal support including emotional, substance abuse, marital, and financial issues.
• Five (5) free visits annually for employees and covered family members.

Wellbeing Benefits:

• Wellness/Health Coaches (5 Free per year)
• On-site Fitness Centers for you and your dependents with 24/7 access
• Personal Training (5 Free per year)
• Pharmacy Technician
• Group Fitness Classes
• Musculoskeletal Physical Therapy Management
• Diabetes Care Program
• Registered Dietician (5 Free per year)
• Massages with licensed therapist (small copay)

Miscellaneous Benefits:

• Workers' Compensation
• Training/Seminars
• Premium Pay Differentials/Career Ladders
• Government employee discounts at many retailers and attractions
• Access to Manatee County Library Services (books, digital services, tools, museum passes).

Paid Time Off:

• 12 Paid Holidays including New Year's Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
• Three (3) Personal Holidays
• Personal Sick Leave
• Family Sick Leave
• Sick Leave Bank (Donated Hours)
• Professional Medical Appointment Leave
• Bereavement Leave
• Military Leave
• Military Training Leave
• FMLA

Vacation Award: Applies to employees regulary sceduled to work 8 hours per day/40 hours per week.
Years of Service Vacation Days
0-5 16.25 days
6-10 19.50 days
11+ 22.75 days

• Earn an additional day of vacation every six (6) consecutive months of no sick leave.

Insurance:

• Award-winning Health Plan with deductibles as low as $0.
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Prescription Insurance
• Life Insurance (6 times salary at low cost)
• Long-term and Short-term Disability Insurance

Retirement:

• Florida Retirement System (FRS) with Pension Plan and Investment Plan options.
• 457b Tax Deferred and ROTH account options through Voya.
• FRS Webinars
• Free financial guidance with licensed, non-commissioned financial planner

Career Wellness:

• Professional Leadership Programs
• Instructor-Led and eLearning Training
• Premium Pay Differentials/Career Ladders
• Career Counseling
• Toastmasters
• Networking Membership (Manatee Chamber of Commerce, Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance)
• Employee Recognition Programs with monetary and time-off awards

Education Benefits:

• Tuition Reimbursement eligible after six (6) months of Public Service, including GED reimbursement.
• Continuing Education support through Training/Seminars and Premium Pay Differentials/Career Ladder.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)

Flexible Spending Account:

• Options for Health Care and Dependent Care Spending Accounts providing pre-tax savings.

Permanent Part Time - Benefits
Employee Assistance Program (EAP):
• ComPsych - offers all employees and their family members with emotional, financial, legal, and work/life balance support.
• LAMP counselors available for personal support including emotional, substance abuse, marital, and financial issues.
Miscellaneous Benefits:
• Workers' Compensation
• Training/Seminars
• Fitness Center Access for employee only
• FRS options
• Premium Pay Differentials/Career Ladders
• Government employee discounts at many retailers and attractions
• Access to Manatee County Library Services (books, digital services, tools, museum passes).
Paid Time Off:
• 12 Paid Holidays including New Year's Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
• Three (3) Personal Holidays
• Paid Time Off and Leaves of Absence are based on an 8 hrs./day 80/hrs.
per pay-period ...