Public Service Faculty - Local Government Operations

The University of Georgia; Athens (GA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Georgia’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government invites applications for a Public Service Faculty position in the Government Services and Research Division / Local Government Unit.

The role emphasizes technical assistance, data-informed decision making, and studies to support local government leaders in financial and policy analyses, feasibility studies, benchmarking and best-practice research.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree required.
• Rank on hire based on qualifications and experience.
• Five years of government operations or management experience.
• Background in maintenance and operations of public infrastructure.
• Background in financial analysis.
• Experience gathering data, writing reports and presenting to elected officials.
• Experience facilitating groups.

Responsibilities

• Provide research and technical assistance to local governments, including financial analysis, feasibility studies, benchmarking, and best-practice research. (70%)
• Meet with potential clients to determine needs and negotiate contracts; establish and maintain relationships with existing clients. (10%)
• Support strategic projects of the Institute and collaborate across the Institute of Government and Public Service and Outreach. (10%)
• Establish and maintain relationships with state government personnel and professional associations aligned with the Institute’s work. (5%)
• Conduct applied research and share expertise through training, webinars, reports, and professional presentations. (5%)

Skills

Data analysis

Financial analysis

Policy analysis

Report writing

Presentations

Group facilitation

Education

Master’s degree (public administration / related field)

Job description

Position Summary

The Carl Vinson Institute of Government at the University of Georgia invites applications for a Public Service Faculty position in the Government Services and Research Division / Local Government Unit. The position will begin February 1, 2025 and carries a rank in the public service faculty career ladder of the university. This role provides technical assistance and conducts studies to help local government leaders make data‑informed decisions through financial analysis, policy analysis, feasibility studies, benchmarking and best practice research. The position works with public works directors and other local government leaders to maintain critical infrastructure. As a member of one of the state’s most trusted research units, the faculty member develops and delivers programs and services, shares expertise through training, webinars, reports, and professional presentations, and may travel overnight.

Minimum Qualifications

• Master’s degree.

Additional Requirements

The successful candidate will be appointed at the rank of Public Service Assistant, Public Service Associate, or Senior Public Service Associate. Rank on hire will depend on the candidate’s qualifications and experience, according to Public Service and Outreach Appointment and Promotion Guidelines.

Relevant and Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, and/or Certification

• Master’s degree in public administration, business, social work, sociology, law, economics, management information systems, or a related field.
• Five years of experience working in government operations or management.
• Background with the maintenance and operations of public infrastructure.
• Background doing financial analysis.
• Background gathering data, writing reports and making presentations to elected officials.
• Background facilitating groups.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies

• Knowledge of state and local government political structure, functions, and operations.
• Knowledge of public management practices, emerging trends, issues, and challenges.
• Knowledge of local government operations, financial environment, and legal frameworks.
• Knowledge of public works and infrastructure including sewer and water, utilities, and maintenance and repair.
• Ability to develop and manage budgets associated with contracts or grant projects.
• Ability to manage complex long‑term projects and client relationships.
• Ability to take initiative and work independently.
• Ability to develop and apply creative solutions to complex problems.
• Ability to explain complex methodologies and solutions in a practical manner.
• Advanced skills in establishing priorities and organizing work.
• Advanced administrative, management, and supervisory skills.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills for client interactions and presentations.

Duties / Responsibilities

• Provide research and technical assistance services to local governments and other governmental organizations, including financial analysis, feasibility studies, benchmarking, and best‑practice research. (70%)
• Meet with potential clients to determine needs and negotiate contracts; establish and maintain relationships with existing clients. (10%)
• Support the strategic projects of the Institute and collaborate across the Institute of Government and Public Service and Outreach. (10%)
• Establish and maintain solid working relationships with personnel in state government and professional associations that align with the Institute’s work. (5%)
• Conduct applied research and engage in scholarship on topics relevant to the Institute’s mission; share expertise through training, webinars, reports, and professional presentations. (5%)

EEO Statement

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR at [e-mail].