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City Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of Riverside, CA

CITY MANAGER

Riverside, CA · On-site

$405K/yr

City Manager-Administration Opening Date: 07/28/2026 Closing Date: Continuous The Position The City of Riverside is accepting applications for the position of City Manager. Subject to policy ...

City of Pleasanton, CA

City Manager

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$343K/yr

City Manager Opening Date: 07/29/2026 Closing Date: 9/1/2026 11:59 PM Pacific FLSA: Exempt Bargaining Unit: 5500 The City of Pleasanton is seeking an empathetic, approachable, and trustworthy City ...

City of Pleasanton

City Manager

Pleasanton, CA

$343K/yr

The City of Pleasanton is seeking an empathetic, approachable, and trustworthy City Manager who is committed to public service, values collaboration, and inspires confidence among the City Council ...

City of Riverside

CITY MANAGER

Riverside, CA

$405K/yr

The Position The City of Riverside is accepting applications for the position of City Manager. Subject to policy direction by the City Council, the City Manager* will coordinate the overall ...

City of Pacific Grove, CA

City Manager

Pacific Grove, CA · On-site

$266K/yr

City Manager's Office Opening Date: 08/07/2026 Closing Date: 9/6/2026 11:59 PM Pacific Overview For more information and to apply for this executive recruitment, please refer to the Gary Phillips Bob ...

City of Lindsay

CITY MANAGER

Lindsay, CA

$114K - $166K/yr

Examples of Duties ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Manages and supervises all departments, agencies and offices of the city to achieve goals within available resources; plans and organizes ...

City of Pacific Grove

City Manager

Pacific Grove, CA · On-site

$266K/yr

Overview For more information and to apply for this executive recruitment, please refer to the Bob Murray & Associates website. Gary Phillips Bob Murray & Associates 1544 Eureka Road, Suite 280 ...

City of Compton, CA

Assistant City Manager

CA · On-site

$235K - $276K/yr

City Manager's Office, CA Job Type: Full-Time Job Number: 26-27:14 Department: City Manager Opening Date: 08/04/2026 Closing Date: Continuous GENERAL PURPOSE Under the general administrative ...

City of Compton

Assistant City Manager

Compton, CA · On-site

$235K - $276K/yr

GENERAL PURPOSE Under the general administrative direction of the City Manager, to assist in planning, directing, managing, and reviewing the daily activities and operations of the City; to ...

Government Jobs

Assistant City Manager

Petaluma, CA · On-site

City Manager Position Under the general administrative direction of the City Manager, to assist in planning, directing, managing, and reviewing the daily activities and operations of the City; to ...

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City of Santee

Assistant City Manager

Santee, CA · On-site

$199K - $268K/yr

City of Santee Assistant City Manager Brochure To be considered for this position, please email a cover letter, resume and six (6) professional references (city application not required) to Director ...

City of Montclair

Deputy City Clerk

Montclair, CA · On-site

$81K - $99K/yr

Under direction of the City Clerk, assists with operations of the City Clerk's Office, City Manager's Office, and Administrative Services Department; performs duties related to the citywide Records ...

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All JobsCity JobsCity Manager JobsCity Manager Jobs in California

City Manager information

See California salary details

$26.2K

$113.9K

$220.6K

How much do city manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for city manager in California is $113,894.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,100.00 and $148,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a city manager?

City Managers are appointed officials responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of a city or municipality. They implement policies set by the city council, manage city staff and departments, prepare budgets, and ensure that services are delivered efficiently to the community. City Managers serve as the chief executive officers for cities that use the council-manager form of government, acting as a liaison between elected officials and city employees. Their role is to provide professional management and leadership to help the city run smoothly and achieve its goals.

What does a city manager do?

As a city manager, you have a host of official political and administrative duties carried out at the instruction of a city council or mayor. In smaller municipalities, a city manager may directly implement a wide range of governmental policies, while in larger towns and cities, you generally head up different departments within city government, such as the budget office, human resources, or public works. Regardless of the size of the city, you have a role with significant responsibilities related to budgetary, managerial, and operational strategies and goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a city manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a City Manager, you need expertise in public administration, budgeting, and policy development, usually backed by a master's degree in public administration or a related field. Familiarity with municipal management software, financial systems, and compliance regulations is typically required. Exceptional leadership, negotiation, and interpersonal skills help foster collaboration with city officials, staff, and the community. These abilities are crucial for effectively managing city operations, ensuring fiscal responsibility, and achieving community goals.

How does a city manager typically interact with city council members and department heads on a daily basis?

A City Manager regularly collaborates with city council members to implement policy decisions, provide updates on ongoing initiatives, and offer professional recommendations on municipal matters. Daily, they also work closely with department heads across various sectors—such as public works, finance, and public safety—to coordinate operations, address challenges, and ensure efficient delivery of city services. This role requires strong communication skills and the ability to balance the priorities of elected officials with the needs of city staff and residents.

What is the difference between City Manager vs City Clerk?

AspectCity ManagerCity Clerk
Required CredentialsTypically a master's degree in public administration or related field, with experience in local governmentOften a high school diploma or associate degree; some positions prefer certification in municipal clerkship
Work EnvironmentOversees daily city operations, manages staff, and implements policiesHandles records management, public notices, and official documentation
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal governments, city administrationsCity governments, municipal offices
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for leadership roles in city managementCompared for administrative and record-keeping responsibilities

The City Manager is responsible for overseeing city operations and implementing policies, requiring advanced education and management experience. The City Clerk focuses on maintaining official records and ensuring transparency. While both roles are vital in city government, they serve different functions and require distinct skill sets.

How much money does a city manager make?

The average salary of a city manager varies depending on the size and location of the city, but typically ranges from $70,000 to over $150,000 annually. Larger cities and those with more complex budgets tend to offer higher compensation, and city managers often need a background in public administration or related fields.

What degree is needed to be a city manager?

A city manager typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in public administration, political science, or a related field. Many city managers also hold a master's degree, such as a Master of Public Administration (MPA), which can enhance job prospects and effectiveness in the role.
More about City Manager jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of City jobs in California?

The most popular types of City jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to City Manager jobs in California?

For City Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching City Manager jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for City Manager jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for City Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most City Manager job openings:

City Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various City Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,894 per year, or $54.8 per hour.

CITY MANAGER

City of Riverside, CA

Riverside, CA • On-site

$405K/yr

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Salary : $405,696.00 Annually
Location : City Hall 3900 Main Street, Riverside, CA
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 26-9790-001
Department: City Manager
Division: City Manager-Administration
Opening Date: 07/28/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
The Position
The City of Riverside is accepting applications for the position of City Manager.
Subject to policy direction by the City Council, the City Manager* will coordinate the overall administrative activities and operations of the city; advise and assist the City Council exercising independent judgment and initiative; and do related work as required.
*This position is designated as non-classified and is exempt from the classified service. The Incumbent shall be appointed "at-will" and serve at the pleasure of the City Council.
Work Performed
Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Direct and participate in the development and implementation of goals, objectives, policies and procedures.
  • Direct and participate, with department head cooperation, in the preparation and administration of the city budget.
  • Prepare long-term plans of capital improvements with plans for their financing.
  • Confer with department heads concerning administrative and operational problems, make appropriate decisions or recommendations.
  • Prepare and submit to the City Council reports of finances and administrative activities, keep City Council advised of financial conditions, program progress, and present and future needs of the city.
  • Oversee the enforcement of all city ordinances.
  • Direct the preparation of plans and specifications for work which the City Council orders.
  • Interpret, analyze, and explain policies, procedures, and programs.
  • Confer with residents, taxpayers, businesses, and other individuals, groups, and outside agencies having an interest or potential interest in affairs of city concern.
  • Respond to the most difficult complaints and requests for information.
  • Represent the city in the community and at professional meeting as required.
  • Coordinate city activities with other governmental agencies and outside organizations.
  • Perform all duties as may be prescribed in the City Charter or required by City Council action.
  • Select, supervise, train, and evaluate staff.

Qualifications
Education: A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major work in public administration or a closely related field. A Master's degree is highly preferred and may substitute for two years of the required experience.
Experience: Ten years of progressively responsible administrative managerial or leadership experience in municipal government which includes three (3) years as a director, deputy director or other senior management level.
Selection Process
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED AT THE TIME OF APPLICATION:
1) Completed Employment Application
2) Completed Supplemental Questionnaire
3) Resume and Letter of Interest
FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ON COMPLETING YOUR ON-LINE APPLICATION, CLICK HERE: (Application Guide).
The selection process will begin with an employment application package screening, with the best qualified candidates being invited to participate further in the assessment process. This process may include any combination of written, performance, and oral assessments to evaluate job-related education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities. Those who successfully complete the selection process will be placed on the eligibility list for this classification.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON SCHEDULING ASSESSMENTS:
If you are selected to move forward in the assessment process, you may be required to self-schedule your appointment. You will be notified via email of your status and provided with self-scheduling instructions. Please check your email regularly following the closing date of this recruitment.
Positions that require, or may require, a California Commercial Driver's License are considered Safety Sensitive and are monitored by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Any candidate being considered for a Safety Sensitive position must submit authorization forms to the City immediately upon request to begin the pre-employment process.
It is the responsibility of candidates with a disability requiring accommodation in the assessment process to contact the Human Resources Department in writing to request such accommodation prior to the closing date of this recruitment.
Appointment may be subject to the successful completion of a pre-employment background investigation, drug screen, and/or medical/physical examination.
NOTE: The City reserves the right to modify selection devices and test instruments in accordance with accepted legal, ethical, and professional standards. Candidates may reapply when there is a posting to establish an eligibility list.
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Proof of education listed in your application will be requested at the time of conditional offer. Acceptable documentation consists of transcripts or degree, if applicable, by the accredited U.S. college or university.
Education obtained outside the United States (US) require one of the following options:
  1. An equivalency statement from an evaluation company certified by the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) at Members - NACES or the Association of International Credential Evaluators Inc. (AICE) at http://aice-eval.org/members/.
  2. An advanced-level degree from an accredited US college or university.

All applicants will be notified via e-mail or telephone of their application status and the assessment dates/times/locations after the closing date of this announcement.
THE PROVISIONS OF THIS JOB ANNOUNCEMENT DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED CONTRACT.
Subject to change, more information to come.
Executive
The City offers an attractive benefits package, the central provisions of which are as follows:
  • Retirement for Classic Members - For employees hired after 1/1/2013 who are CLASSIC MEMBERS of California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) or a reciprocal agency as of 12/31/12 and have not been separated from service from such agency for six months or more, the retirement benefit shall be 2.7 % @ age 55; 3-year final compensation. The required employee contribution is 8%. The City does not participate in Social Security; thus, employees do not bear this additional 6.2% expense.
  • Retirement for New Members - For employees hired 1/1/2013 or later and who ARE NOT a member of the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) or a reciprocal agency as of 12/31/12, or those who have been separated from a public agency which contracts with CalPERS or a reciprocal agency for six months or more, the retirement benefit shall be 2% at age 62; 3 year final compensation. The required employee contribution is 50% of the normal cost. And is subject to change per CalPERS every fiscal year. The City does not participate in Social Security; thus, employees do not bear this additional 6.2% expense.
  • Health Insurance - The City offers six health insurance plans and contributes up to $1,734 per month for HMO plans (family coverage).
  • Dental Insurance - The City provides three dental insurance plans and contributes up to $85 per month.
  • Vision Insurance - The City provides vision coverage through Vision Service Plan (VSP) for employees and their dependents that are enrolled in medical coverage.
  • Life Insurance - The City provides and pays for term life insurance with accidental death and dismemberment equal to two times the annual salary rounded to the next highest $1,000 up to a maximum of $700,000 plus AD&D. Additional Life Insurance is available and voluntary for employee and eligible dependents (up to $300k).
  • Deferred Compensation - The City contributes $200 per month with a minimum employee contribution of $12.50 per check. Participation in the deferred compensation plan is optional.
  • Leave Benefits - Includes vacation, sick leave, bereavement leave, and holiday benefits. Please refer to the Fringe Benefits and Salary Plan for specific details.
  • Flexible Spending Account - The City offers a Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Plan for optional participation.
  • Long Term Disability - The City offers optional enrollment in the Long-Term Disability Plan.
  • LegalEase Plan - Optional legal services plan for employees and eligible dependents.
  • Critical Illness Plan - Optional critical illness insurance plan for employees and eligible dependents.
  • Administration Leave- 100 hours a fiscal year
  • Vacation - Varies and may be reflected in individual contracts.
  • Auto Allowance - $500 per month

For additional benefits information, please visit the following website:
For part-time, benefitted positions the insurance and other benefits (leave accruals, holidays, etc.) are pro-rated based on ½ or ¾ time status.

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