City Administrator

Description:

GENERAL STATEMENT OF JOB

Given broad objectives, is responsible for coordinating, planning, directing, and supervising the activities of all City officials and departments for which City Council is responsible. Is responsible for proper administration of the affairs of the City in accordance with South Carolina law and City ordinances, carrying out policies of the City Council as may be established. Interacts and coordinates with a wide variety of groups and individuals. Reports to City Council. Must live in Union County, South Carolina.

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Essential Job Functions Coordinates the daily functions of the City, and oversees the general administration and operations of the departments of the City of Union to ensure the achievement of Council policies and goals. Perform supervisory duties as necessary including instructing, assigning and reviewing work, planning, maintaining standards, coordinating activities, allocating personnel, acting on employee problems, selecting new employees, and recommending/approving transfers/promotions, discipline, termination, and salary increases; promote staff development and motivation; provide instruction and guidance to department heads as needed, etc. Reviews the work of subordinates for completeness and accuracy; evaluates and makes recommendations as appropriate, offers advice and assistance as needed. Appoint and, when necessary for the good of the City, remove any appointive officer or employee of the City below the level of department head, except as otherwise provided or prohibited by law and except as he may authorize the head of a department or office to appoint and remove subordinates in such department or office, upon approval of the administrator and appoint and, when necessary for the good of the City, remove any department head with the approval of City Council. Execute the policies, directives and legislative actions of the City Council; and prepare and present policy improvements/changes to same. Coordinate the activities of City government with all other agencies within County and with State and Federal agencies. See that the ordinances, resolutions, and regulations of council are faithfully executed. Respond to requests for service by citizens and council members. Maintain effective working relationships with City employees, elected officials, representatives of local, state and federal agencies, local civic organizations, the media and others involved with City government. Prepare with the assistance of the Finance Director, the budget annually, submit it to the Council and be responsible for its administration after adoption. Keep the Council advised of the financial condition and future needs of the City and make such recommendations as may be in the City's best interest. Prepare and submit to the Council at the end of each fiscal year a complete annual report on the finances and administrative activities of the City for the preceding year and make such other financial reports from time to time as may be required by the Council or by this chapter. Be responsible for the purchase of all merchandise, material and supplies, and the payment therefor. Prepare work session and council meeting reports and agendas for monthly council meetings; prepare reports and studies for a variety of mayor's committees. Prepare a variety of records and reports such as requests for proposals, employee newsletter, annual report, tax brochure, grant applications, etc.; oversee all documents relating to work performed by engineers and architects. Attend all meetings of the Council and recommend for adoption such measures as may be in the City's best interest. Perform such other duties as may be prescribed by law or required of him by the Council, not inconsistent with the provisions of this chapter.

ESSENTIAL SAFETY FUNCTIONS

Every manager/supervisor is responsible for enforcing all safety rules and regulations. In addition, they are responsible for ensuring that a safe work environment is maintained, safe work practices are followed and employees are properly trained. It is the responsibility of each employee to comply with established policies, procedures and safe work practices. Each employee must follow safety training and instructions provided by their supervisor. Each employee must also properly wear and maintain all personal protective equipment required for their job. Finally, each employee must immediately report any unsafe work practices or unsafe conditions as well as any on-the-job injuries or illnesses.

ADDITIONAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Performs duties as specified in the City of Union Code of Ordinances, as may be amended from time to time. Attends meetings of organizations such as the Municipal Association of South Carolina. Performs other related duties as required.

PREFERRED TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

Master's degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field, with ten years of experience in local government, especially as an Assistant City Administrator, or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. Must possess a valid South Carolina Driver's License.

Requirements:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS OR STANDARDS REQUIRED TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Physical Requirements:

Must be physically able to operate different types of office equipment including computer, calculator, copier, typewriter, etc. Must be physically able to exert up to twenty pounds of force occasionally and/or frequently to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects. Sedentary work involves walking and standing for brief periods of time. Must be able to lift or carry up to twenty pounds.

Data Conception:

Requires the ability to compare and or judge the readily observable functional, structural, or compositional characteristics (whether similar to or divergent from obvious standards) of data, people, or things.

Interpersonal Communication:

Requires the ability of speaking and/or signaling people to convey or exchange pertinent and vital information to co-workers. Includes the receiving of information and instructions from City Council. Includes the giving of assignments and directions to department heads and other City employees.

Language Ability:

Requires the ability to read and prepare a variety of documents and reports using the proper format, punctuation, spelling, and grammar. Has the ability to speak and make presentations to co-workers, department heads, and the general public with poise, voice control, and confidence.

Intelligence:

Requires the ability to apply principles of logical thinking to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions; to deal with several abstract and concrete variables. Requires the ability to apply influence systems in managing a staff; to learn and understand relatively complex principles and techniques; to make independent judgments in absence of supervision; to acquire knowledge of topics related to primary occupation. Must have the ability to comprehend and interpret received information.

Verbal Aptitude:

Requires the ability to record and deliver information and to follow verbal and written instructions.

Numerical Aptitude:

Requires the ability to utilize mathematical formulas; add and subtract totals; multiply and divide; determine percentages and decimals; determine time and weight; apply algebraic principles; and apply statistical principles and procedures.

Form/Spatial Aptitude:

Requires the ability to inspect items for proper length, width, and shape, and visually read various information.

Motor Coordination:

Must have excellent hand/eye coordination.

Manual Dexterity:

Requires the ability to handle a variety of small items such as knobs, switches, etc. Must be able to twist, push, and pull knobs or switches, etc. Must have maximum levels of foot/hand/eye coordination.

Color Discrimination:

Requires the ability to differentiate colors and shades of color.

Interpersonal Temperament:

Has the ability to deal with people beyond receiving instructions.

Physical Communication:

Requires the ability to talk and/or hear (talking - expressing or exchanging ideas by means of spoken words; hearing - perceiving nature of sounds by ear.)

PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

Knowledge of Job:

Has thorough knowledge of the methods, procedures, and policies of the City as they pertain to the performance of duties of the City Administrator. Has considerable knowledge of the functions and interrelationships of County and other governmental agencies. Is knowledgeable in the laws, ordinances, standards, and regulations pertaining to the specific duties and responsibilities of the position. Is able to ensure departmental compliance with all laws and regulations and control the activities of the department through effective supervision. Knows how to plan, organize, and direct an administrative / operations staff. Knows how to apply supervisory and managerial concepts and principles; has knowledge of administrative principles involved in developing, directing and supervising various programs and related activities. Has the ability to offer instruction and advice to subordinates regarding departmental policies, methods, and regulations. Is able to perform employee evaluations and to make recommendations based on results. Has the ability to offer training and assistance to co-workers and employees of other departments as required. Has the ability to use independent judgment and discretion in supervising various programs including the handling of emergency situations, determining procedures, setting priorities, setting schedules, maintaining standards, planning for future City needs and resolving problems. Is able to make sound, educated decisions. Has the ability to plan and develop daily, short- and long-term goals related to City purposes. Is able to take the initiative to complete the duties of the position without the need of direct supervision. Has the ability to plan, organize and prioritize daily assignments and work activities. Have good organizational, technical, and human relations skills. Has the ability to learn and utilize new skills and information to improve job performance and efficiency. Has knowledge of proper English usage, punctuation, spelling, and grammar. Has knowledge of modern office practices and technology; has skill in the use of computers for word and data processing. Has the mathematical ability to handle required calculations. Is able to compile, organize, and utilize various financial information necessary in the preparation of the departmental and organizational budget, and knows how to prepare and monitor budgets. Is able to read and interpret complex materials pertaining to the responsibilities of the job. Is able to assemble and analyze information and make written reports and records in a concise, clear, and effective manner. Has comprehensive knowledge of the terminology and various professional languages used within the department. Knows how to maintain effective relationships with personnel of other departments, professionals, and members of the public through contact and cooperation. Knows how to make public presentations. Knows how to react calmly and quickly in emergency situations.

Quality of Work:

Maintains high standards of accuracy in exercising duties and responsibilities. Exercises immediate remedial action to correct any quality deficiencies that occur in areas of responsibility. Maintains high quality communication and interaction with internal and external entities with whom the position interacts.

Quantity of Work:

Performs described Essential Functions and related assignments efficiently and effectively in order to produce quantity of work which consistently meets established standards and expectations.

Dependability:

Assumes responsibility for completing assigned work. Completes assigned work within deadlines in accordance with directives, policy, standards, and prescribed procedures. Maintains accountability for assigned responsibilities in the technical, human, and conceptual areas.

Attendance:

Attends and remains at work regularly and adheres to policies and procedures regarding absenteeism and tardiness. Provides adequate notice to higher management with respect to vacation time and leave requests.

Initiative and Enthusiasm:

Maintains an enthusiastic, self-reliant, and self-starting approach to meet job responsibilities and accountabilities. Strives to anticipate work to be accomplished, and initiates proper and acceptable action for the completion of work with a minimum of supervision and instruction.

Judgment:

Exercises analytical judgment in areas of responsibility. Identifies issues or situations as they occur and specifies decision objectives. Identifies or assists in identifying alternative solutions to issues or situations. Implements decisions in accordance with prescribed and effective policies and procedures and with a minimum of errors. Seeks expert or experienced advice where appropriate and researches issues, situations, and alternatives before exercising judgment.

Cooperation:

Accepts supervisory instruction and direction and strives to meet the goals and objectives of same. Questions such instruction and direction when clarification of results or consequences are justified, i.e., poor communications, variance with established policies or procedures, etc. Offers suggestions and recommendations to encourage and improve cooperation intra- and inter-departmentally. Relationships with

Others:

Shares knowledge with managers, supervisors, and co-workers for mutual benefit. Contributes to maintaining high morale among all employees. Develops and maintains cooperative and courteous relationships inter- and intra-departmentally, and with external entities with whom the position interacts. Tactfully and effectively handles requests, suggestions, and complaints in order to establish and maintain good will. Emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive image.

Coordination of Work:

Plans and organizes daily work routine. Establishes priorities for the completion of work in accordance with sound time-management methodology. Avoids duplication of effort. Estimates expected time of completion of work elements and establishes a personal schedule accordingly. Attends required meetings, planning sessions and discussions on time. Implements work activity in accordance with priorities and estimated schedules.

Safety and Housekeeping:

Adheres to all established safety and housekeeping standards. Ensures such standards are not violated.

Planning:

Plans, coordinates, and uses information effectively to enhance activities and production. Knows and understands expectations regarding such activities and works to ensure such expectations are met. Develops and formulates ways, means, and timing to achieve established goals and objectives. Effectively and efficiently organizes, arranges, and allocates work force, financial and other designated resources to achieve such goals and objectives.

Organizing:

Efficiently organizes own work and that of subordinate staff. Ensures that personnel understand what results are expected of them, and that each is regularly and appropriately informed of all matters affecting or of concern to them.

Staffing:

Works with upper management, where appropriate, to select and recommend employment of qualified personnel. Personally directs the development and training of personnel under charge, ensuring their proper induction, orientation and training.

Leading:

Provides a work environment which encourages clear and open communications. Has a clear and comprehensive understanding of the principles of effective leadership and how such principles are to be applied. Provides adequate feedback to personnel under charge concerning their performance. Commends and rewards personnel under charge for outstanding performance, and takes timely and appropriate disciplinary action as necessary. Exercises enthusiasm in influencing and guiding others toward achievement of established goals and objectives.

Controlling:

Provides a work environment which is orderly and controlled. Coordinates, audits, and controls work force and financial resources efficiently and effectively. Coordinates, audits, and controls the utilization of materials and equipment efficiently and effectively. Has a clear and comprehensive understanding of established standards, methods, and procedures.

Delegating:

Assigns duties as necessary and/or appropriate to meet goals, enhance abilities of personnel under charge, build their confidence, and assist them in personal growth. Has confidence in personnel under charge to meet new or additional expectations.

Decision Making:

Exercises discretion and judgment in developing and implementing courses of action affecting functions under charge. Recognizes when a particular policy, procedure or strategy does not foster the desired result, and moves decisively and explicitly to develop and implement alternatives.

Creativity:

Regularly seeks new and improved methodologies, policies, and procedures for enhancing the effectiveness of functions under charge. Employs imagination and creativity in the application of duties and responsibilities. Is not adverse to change that supports achievement of goals and objectives.

Human Relations:

Strives to develop and maintain excellent rapport with personnel under charge. Listens to and considers their suggestions and complaints, and responds appropriately. Establishes a work environment to promote and maintain mutual respect.

Policy Implementation:

Has a clear and comprehensive understanding of policies regarding functions under charge and the function of the organization. Adheres to policies in the discharge of duties and responsibilities, and ensures the same from personnel under charge.

Policy Formulation:

Maintains awareness of changes in operating philosophies and policies, and routinely reviews policies to ensure any changes in philosophy or practice are appropriately incorporated into functions under charge. Recognizes and understands the relationship between operating policies and practices and morale and performance. Strives to ensure that established policies enhance same.