IT Project Manager - Cedar Rapids, IA (Onsite)

The client is seeking a dedicated and experienced IT Project Manager to lead the full lifecycle implementation of a mission-critical Public Safety Software System. This major initiative includes the replacement of the Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD), Records Management System (RMS), and Jail Management System (JMS) serving law enforcement, fire, and emergency services. The successful candidate will be responsible for driving this multi-agency, multi-year effort from planning through implementation and stabilization.

This high-impact role requires technical competence, organizational discipline, and the ability to collaborate across jurisdictions-including Police, Fire, Sheriff's Office, and IT-as well as with vendor partners. The anticipated project duration is 18 30 months.

The position offers some hybrid work flexibility, but onsite presence will be required as dictated by the project phase, including workshops, vendor demos, stakeholder meetings, testing, and go-live support. There may be periods where onsite attendance is expected five days per week. Candidates must be able to reliably commute to clients location as needed. The City will not cover travel or relocation expenses for non-local applicants.

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.

Special Requirements

• Must pass local law enforcement background check prior to employment.
• Must obtain NCIC certification within 3 months of hire (training provided).
• Must be available for occasional off-hours coordination tied to cutovers, testing, and public safety operational windows.

This is a rare opportunity to help modernize critical infrastructure that directly supports the safety and wellbeing of the client's community. If you are a results-driven professional passionate about public service and technology, we encourage you to apply.