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City Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 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

City Manager

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$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 ...

ICMA

City Manager

Pacific Grove, CA · On-site

$270 - $310/hr

The seven-member City Council appoints the City Manager, City Attorney, and members of the City's advisory boards and commissions. Renowned for its historic character, stunning coastal setting, and ...

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 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, 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 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

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 ...

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 ...

Sonomacity

Deputy City Manager

Sonoma, CA · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Serve as project manager for City involvement in complex and multifaceted developmental projects. * Formulate, recommend and administer policies and procedures as assigned. * Establish long-range ...

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 ...

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City Manager information

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$26.2K

$113.9K

$220.6K

How much do city manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 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 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,894 per year, or $54.8 per hour.

City Manager

Pleasanton, CA • On-site

City of Pleasanton, CA
See more jobs at City of Pleasanton, CAexternal

$343K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Salary : $343,512.00 Annually
Location : 123 Main Street, P.O. Box 520, Pleasanton, CA
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Job Number: 2026CM
Department: 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 Manager who is committed to public service, values collaboration, and inspires confidence among the City Council, employees, and the community. The ideal candidate will be a strategic, forward-thinking executive with strong political acumen, financial expertise, and demonstrated local government leadership experience. This position serves as the City's chief executive officer, providing strategic leadership and overseeing effective administration of municipal operations for a full-service city with more than 440 regular employees and an annual operating budget of $265.9 million.
The annual salary is$343,512, with flexibility for a higher salary depending on qualifications and experience. The filing deadline is September 1, 2026.
Please to apply for this position.
Typical Duties
Please to learn more about this position.
  • Management Pay and Performance Plan - This plan provides an opportunity for individuals to earn up to 20% above their control point for continued exceptional performance over time.
  • Medical Insurance - Choice of one of four comprehensive health plans (available only in specific geographic areas of Northern California).
  • Dental Insurance - City paid, including $2,000 maximum orthodontic benefit.
  • Life Insurance - Twice annual salary to maximum $100,000.
  • Long-Term/Short-Term Disability - 60% of salary to maximum benefit of $10,000 monthly for LTD. (employee paid)
  • PERS Retirement
  • Deferred Compensation Program - Two deferred compensation programs are available from which to choose, allowing employees to maximize contributions to their retirement accounts on a pre-tax basis. Management employees are eligible to participate in both programs concurrently.
  • Vacation Leave - First through fourth year accrued at 6.667 hours per month; fifth through ninth year accrues at 10 hours per month; and progressing with years of service.
  • Administrative Leave - Seven days per year, paid if not taken. City Manager may authorize an additional three days per year based on performance.
  • Tuition Reimbursement - Job related courses from accredited college or universities reimbursed at California State University East Bay current tuition rate.
  • Holidays - Eleven fixed holidays per year plus seven floating holidays.
  • Paid Sick Leave -Twelve days per year.
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Section 125 Flexible Benefit Program

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