Urban Operations Manager

Lead Operations Where the Outback Meets the Coast

The Urban Operations Manager is responsible for providing strategic leadership, direction and management of the Shire's civil operations, ensuring the effective delivery of road construction and maintenance, rural road networks, drainage infrastructure and associated civil works programs.

The position is accountable for leading operational teams to deliver safe, efficient and sustainable services that meet community expectations, legislative obligations and the Shire's strategic objectives. This includes overseeing operational planning, workforce management, financial performance, contractor management and the effective utilisation of plant and resources.

Working collaboratively with the Executive Manager Infrastructure Services and other key stakeholders, the Urban Operations Manager contributes to the development of long-term infrastructure strategies, capital works planning and continuous improvement initiatives, while fostering a high-performing, safety-focused culture and ensuring the responsible stewardship of the Shire's infrastructure assets.

What You’ll Do

As our Urban Operations Manager, you will:

• Demonstrate successful leadership through the application of the Shire's core values by promoting a work culture of sustainability, quality improvement, efficiency, and excellent customer service that corresponds to our Code of Conduct and Customer Service Charter.

• Ensure compliance with the Local Government Act (WA) 1995 and any relevant legislation.

• A commitment to a safe work environment and WHS legislation, policy and processes.

• Lead the planning, coordination and delivery of the Shire's civil works and maintenance programs, including roads, rural roads, drainage infrastructure and associated civil assets.

• Ensure operational programs are delivered safely, efficiently, on time and within approved budgets.

• Optimise the utilisation of labour, plant, equipment and contractor resources to maximise operational performance.

• Monitor operational performance against agreed service levels and implement initiatives to improve productivity and service outcomes.

• Lead the coordination of emergency response, disaster recovery and infrastructure restoration activities, including mobilisation of employees, contractors, plant and resources to ensure the timely restoration of essential services.

• Coordinate works programming, resource allocation and scheduling in collaboration with the Engineering and Asset Management teams to optimise service delivery and asset outcomes.

• Oversee the delivery of capital works projects, ensuring works are completed safely, on time, within budget and in accordance with approved specifications, quality standards and legislative requirements.

• Manage contractor procurement, engagement and performance, ensuring compliance with contractual obligations, work health and safety requirements, quality standards and project deliverables.

• Monitor project budgets, progress and performance, implementing corrective actions where required to achieve agreed outcomes.

• Ensure completed works are inspected, defects identified and rectified, and quality assurance processes are implemented to support continuous improvement.

• Lead, coach and develop Supervisors, Leading Hands and operational employees to achieve high levels of performance, accountability and engagement.

• Foster a positive workplace culture that reflects the Shire's values and promotes collaboration, respect and continuous learning.

• Manage workforce planning, recruitment, succession planning and employee development.

• Undertake performance management, coaching and disciplinary processes in accordance with Shire policies and legislative requirements.

• Promote effective communication and collaboration across work teams and directorates.

• Develop, manage and monitor operational budgets, ensuring responsible financial stewardship and achievement of budget objectives.

• Oversee the effective allocation and utilisation of plant, equipment, materials and contractor resources.

• Ensure procurement and contract management activities are undertaken in accordance with legislative requirements and Shire policies.

• Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency and deliver value for money.

• Contribute to the development and implementation of infrastructure maintenance and renewal programs that support the long-term sustainability of the Shire's road and drainage assets.

• Work collaboratively with engineering and asset management functions to establish maintenance priorities and capital works programs.

• Monitor the condition and performance of infrastructure assets and recommend improvement initiatives.

• Ensure operational activities support sound asset management principles and lifecycle planning.

• Provide visible leadership in promoting and maintaining a proactive safety culture across all operational activities.

• Ensure effective daily work planning, risk assessments and safety controls are implemented across operational works and contractor activities.

• Conduct regular field inspections and site visits to monitor safety, operational performance and quality outcomes.

• Lead investigations into workplace incidents and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

• Ensure compliance with the Work Health and Safety Act 2020 (WA), associated Regulations, Shire policies and relevant industry standards.

• Promote continuous improvement through hazard identification, risk management and safety performance monitoring.

• Build and maintain productive relationships with internal stakeholders, contractors, government agencies, service authorities and the community.

• Represent the Shire in meetings, projects and operational forums as required.

• Ensure customer requests and operational issues are managed professionally and resolved in a timely manner.

• Provide high-quality reports, recommendations and advice to Executive Management and Council where required.

• Actively contribute as a member of the Infrastructure Services leadership team, supporting whole-of-organisation initiatives and strategic objectives.

• Promote collaboration across directorates to achieve integrated service delivery and organisational excellence.

• Lead by example, demonstrating the Shire's values, ethical leadership and commitment to exceptional public service.

• Drive a culture of continuous improvement, accountability and innovation across the organisation.

About You

You’ll bring:

• Degree or Diploma in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Infrastructure Management, Project Management, Local Government or a related discipline or demonstrated relevant experience.

• Highly developed ability to uphold a values-based approach in the workplace.

• Highly effective communication skills (written and verbal) including ability to prepare initial reports, letters, emails and assist with applications.

• Demonstrated strategic thinking, problem-solving and organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities, drive continuous improvement and deliver operational outcomes.

• Highly developed communication, stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills, with the ability to provide professional advice and prepare reports for senior management.

• Demonstrated experience in leading and managing civil infrastructure or operational service delivery within a local government or similar environment.

• Demonstrated experience in financial management, including budget preparation, resource allocation, procurement and contract management.

• Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to build high-performing teams, manage performance and foster a positive workplace culture.

• Sound knowledge of civil construction, road maintenance, drainage infrastructure, plant operations and asset management principles.

• Alignment with our CARECHIP values — Courage, Authenticity, Respect, Excellence, Cohesion, Humility, Inclusion, Passion.

Why Join Us

We value people who want to build their skills and contribute to a purpose-driven team.

Your package includes:

• Salary: $137,111.99p/a plus superannuation, district allowance: $1,201.11p/a, housing allowance $7,654.13p/a & vehicle allowance $25,056.32p/a (if eligible).

• $6,000 retention bonus after 3 years’ service.*

• 5 weeks annual leave + 2 Local Government public holidays.

• Training and professional development opportunities.

• Annual leave travel assistance, gym and club membership subsidies, and aquatic centre access.

• Additional allowances and subsidies under our Attraction & Retention Policy.*

• A supportive workplace focused on safety, wellbeing, and community impact.

*Subject to corporate policy.

How to Apply

If you’re ready to help maintain the financial practices, we’d love to hear from you. To view the full position description: 12PD. URBAN OPERATIONS MANAGER

Applications close: 4pm Friday 18 September 2026

For more information, please contact Denika Sweetman, Manager People, Culture & Wellbeing on (08) 9941 0000.

The Shire of Carnarvon reserves the right to close applications early and/or commence the shortlisting and interview process prior to the advertised closing date. The position may be filled at any time upon identification of a suitable applicant.