Project Manager

Position: Project Manager – Locals Only

Location: Cedar Rapids IA

Duration: 18-30 Months

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end implementation of new public safety systems, including:
• Managing the Request for Proposal (RFP) process from planning through vendor selection.
• Partnering with a third-party consultant to develop detailed technical and functional requirements.
• Ensuring alignment between business processes and system capabilities—requiring a keen eye for business workflows and the ability to translate operational needs into clear technology expectations.
• Develop and manage comprehensive project plans including timelines, budgets, deliverables, risks, and communication strategies.
• Coordinate with diverse stakeholder groups, including public safety leadership, dispatch teams, jail staff, city/county IT, legal, procurement, and external vendors.
• Facilitate the definition of system requirements, workflows, integrations, and success metrics based on stakeholder input and industry standards.
• Manage interdependencies between RMS, JMS, and CAD modules, including interfaces with state and federal systems (e.g., NCIC, NIBRS).
• Oversee change management efforts, including communication, end-user training, go-live readiness, and post-implementation support.
• Monitor performance indicators and escalate issues proactively to ensure on-time, on-budget delivery with minimal operational disruption.
• Ensure proper documentation, reporting, and compliance with CJIS security standards and public safety data requirements.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Public Administration, Criminal Justice, Business, or a related field.
• 5 years of project management experience with complex software or enterprise system implementations.
• Demonstrated success managing large-scale, cross-departmental or multi-agency projects, preferably in the public sector.
• Familiarity with public safety operations, including dispatch, incident reporting, and detention workflows.
• Proficient in Microsoft Project, SharePoint, Teams, and Office/M365 tools.
• Experience managing third-party vendors and software integrators.

Preferred Qualifications

• PMP and/or ITIL certification are highly desirable.
• Previous experience implementing CAD/RMS/JMS platforms (e.g., Hexagon, Tyler, CentralSquare, Motorola/Spillman, etc.).
• Familiarity with CJIS compliance, NCIC requirements, and incident-based reporting standards.
• Experience using SmartSheet as a project management platform, or demonstrated ability to quickly adopt new tools (SmartSheet is the City's preferred PM tool).
• Ability to thrive in high-pressure environments requiring calm, confidence, and clarity.
• Skilled in translating technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders.