City Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the rapidly evolving urban landscape, the role of City Manager has never been more crucial.

As cities grow and develop, the need for skilled professionals capable of managing, leading, and innovating within our urban environments increases.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a City Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A city council member looking for the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the complexities of urban management,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we unveil a customizable City Manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or municipal websites.

Let’s delve right into it.

City Manager Duties and Responsibilities

City Managers oversee the administrative tasks of a city.

They work with city council members to implement policies and strategies, while also managing budgets, city programs and services.

The duties and responsibilities of a City Manager include:

• Overseeing daily operations of the city, including managing city staff and resources
• Developing, proposing, and implementing city policies and strategic plans
• Preparing and managing the city budget, and ensuring departments adhere to approved budgets
• Coordinating with other city officials, state, and federal agencies
• Addressing city-wide issues and concerns, and implementing solutions
• Ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations
• Representing the city at various civic and public functions
• Evaluating the efficiency and effectiveness of city services and making improvements as necessary

 

City Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dynamic and experienced City Manager to oversee the administrative functions, operations and services of our city.

The City Manager’s responsibilities include managing city budgets, ensuring the effectiveness of public services, and coordinating activities among different departments.

Our ideal candidate has a strong understanding of public administration and municipal operations, solid leadership skills, and the ability to manage complex projects and tasks.

Ultimately, the role of the City Manager is to ensure the smooth running of the city and the satisfaction of its residents.

 

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily city operations and coordinate activities of all city departments
• Implement and administer city policies, regulations, and ordinances
• Prepare, manage, and execute city budgets
• Identify opportunities for improving service delivery methods and procedures
• Direct the development and implementation of the city’s goals, objectives, and priorities
• Represent the city in various intergovernmental activities, in matters with the news media and at public relations meetings and events
• Maintain communication with city council, staff, and the public on important matters
• Ensure compliance with all laws, policies, and regulations

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a City Manager or similar executive role
• Knowledge of municipal planning, urban development, and public administration
• Familiarity with fiscal planning, public relations, and revenue management
• Excellent leadership and human resources management skills
• Strong understanding of public safety and environmental regulations
• Exceptional negotiation and decision-making skills
• Master’s degree in Public Administration or relevant field

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• City vehicle for official duties

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: City Manager
• Work Environment: Office setting with frequent visits to various city departments and facilities. Some local travel may be required for meetings or site visits.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the City Council.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $120,000 minimum to $200,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a City Manager Do?

City Managers often work for local government agencies, where they are responsible for overseeing and managing the operations of a city or a municipality.

They work closely with city department heads, elected officials, and city council members to develop and implement policies, procedures, and budgets for the city.

City Managers are tasked with ensuring the efficient delivery of public services such as sanitation, public safety, public works, and recreational services.

They may also be involved in managing the city’s finances, including overseeing the city’s budget, allocating funds, and ensuring financial stability.

They are often responsible for managing city employees, resolving issues between departments, and making key decisions on city projects and initiatives.

City Managers act as a bridge between the elected city officials and the city’s administrative staff, translating policy into action.

They often handle public relations, including attending community events, meeting with citizens, and responding to media inquiries.

Finally, City Managers may also be involved in long-term city planning, working to promote economic growth, improve city infrastructure, and enhance the quality of life for city residents.

 

City Manager Qualifications and Skills

An effective City Manager should possess a combination of administrative, leadership and interpersonal skills, along with knowledge of public policy and urban development.

These include:

• Understanding of public administration principles and practices, to effectively manage city operations and resources
• Leadership skills to lead and manage city staff, fostering a productive work environment and encouraging professional development
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, to interact with city officials, staff, and the public, and to clearly explain policies and procedures
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills to address city-wide issues and make decisions that are in the best interest of the city and its residents
• Knowledge of financial management to oversee the city budget and ensure proper allocation of funds
• Understanding of urban planning and development to guide the city’s growth and improvement projects
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with community leaders, government officials, and the public
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple tasks and projects, and ensure city operations run smoothly
• Understanding and knowledge of local, state, and federal laws and regulations that affect city operations

 

City Manager Experience Requirements

City Managers typically start their careers with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration or a related field.

Initial experience is often gained through internships or entry-level positions in municipal government or related organizations.

Entry-level professionals may have 1 to 2 years of experience working in roles such as Administrative Assistant, Budget Analyst, or City Planner, where they can gain an understanding of local government operations.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have a more specific focus such as community development, public works, or finance, and have held roles such as City Planner, City Clerk, or Public Works Director.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are expected to have held a leadership role in municipal government, like a department head or assistant city manager.

This allows them to gain the necessary experience in strategic planning, budgeting, and personnel management that is essential for a City Manager role.

In addition to these, some cities may require their City Manager candidates to have certain certifications or advanced degrees, and a proven track record of success in managing city affairs or similar large-scale projects.

 

City Manager Education and Training Requirements

City Managers typically have a bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, or a related field.

However, a master’s degree in public administration, public policy, business administration, or related field is highly preferred.

They should possess comprehensive knowledge in the areas of urban planning, human resources, and financial management.

This can be obtained through formal education or substantial work experience in public service, preferably in local government.

Knowledge of local government laws and regulations is also essential, and this can be gained through a combination of education and on-the-job experience.

Some City Managers may also pursue a certification from organizations such as the International City/County Management Association.

This certification demonstrates a commitment to professional development and staying abreast of changes in the field.

Prior experience in a managerial or leadership role is typically required, often in the public sector.

This provides the practical skills needed to oversee city operations and manage personnel effectively.

In addition to formal education and experience, City Managers should possess excellent communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

These are often honed through practical work experience and are essential for success in this role.

 

City Manager Salary Expectations

A City Manager earns an average salary of $108,466 (USD) per year.

This salary can fluctuate based on factors such as the size of the city, the complexity of the role, the level of experience, and the region in which the city is located.

 

City Manager Job Description FAQs

What are the required qualifications for a City Manager?

While the qualifications might vary depending on the city, most City Managers are required to have a bachelor’s degree at a minimum.

However, many cities prefer candidates with a master’s degree in public administration, business administration, or a related field.

Extensive experience in local government or public administration is also essential, often at a senior level.

 

What does a City Manager do on a daily basis?

On a daily basis, a City Manager oversees the administration of city services, enforces municipal laws, and implements policies set by the city council.

This could include overseeing city budgets, managing city staff, meeting with council members and residents, and resolving city-related issues.

It’s a role that requires strategic planning, problem-solving, and excellent communication skills.

 

What are the key skills a City Manager should possess?

A successful City Manager should have strong leadership and management skills, as they are responsible for supervising city departments and staff.

They should also have excellent communication and public speaking skills to effectively liaise with city council members, staff, and the public.

Strategic planning, financial management, and problem-solving skills are also crucial for this role.

 

How to hire a City Manager?

Hiring a City Manager can be a complex process, often involving a search committee or a recruitment firm.

The process typically involves a thorough review of the applicant’s education, experience, leadership style, and vision for the city.

Interviews and community meet-and-greets may also be part of the hiring process.

An understanding of local government operations, community engagement, and financial management are key qualities to look for in a City Manager.

 

What challenges do City Managers face?

City Managers often face challenges such as managing limited resources, implementing policy changes, responding to community needs, and dealing with political pressures.

They need to balance the needs and wants of various stakeholders while making decisions in the best interest of the city.

This requires a high degree of diplomacy, patience, and decision-making skills.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the real essence of being a city manager.

Surprised?

It’s not just about managing resources.

It’s about shaping the future of the city, one decision at a time.

With our definitive city manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re equipped to make a difference.

But why settle?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your next stop to create precise job listings or refine your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every decision contributes to the bigger picture of the city’s development.

Let’s shape the future. Together.

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