ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

City Manager Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

City of Northglenn

Director of Human Resources

Denver, CO · On-site

$137K - $206K/yr

Nature of Work As a critical member of the City's Leadership Team, the Director of Human Resources is responsible for providing leadership and establishing strategic and operational direction in all

Raftelis

Town Manager

Erie, CO · On-site

The Finance Director serves as a key member of the City's leadership team, providing strategic direction while actively leading the City's day-to-day financial operations. Reporting directly to the

City of Northglenn, CO

Director of Human Resources

CO · On-site

$137K - $206K/yr

Salary: $137,682.00 - $206,522.00 Annually Location : City Hall, CO Job Type: Regular Full-Time Job Number: 2026-00024 Department: Human Resources Opening Date: 07/30/2026 Closing Date: 8/13/2026

City of Loveland

Library Manager

Loveland, CO · On-site

Job Summary: Responsible for the leadership of the City's library and staff; plans, manages and directs the operations, programs, services and personnel to continually develop a modern community

City of Loveland

Library Manager

Loveland, CO · On-site

Job Summary: Responsible for the leadership of the City's library and staff; plans, manages and directs the operations, programs, services and personnel to continually develop a modern community

City of Loveland, CO

Library Manager

Loveland, CO · On-site

Job Summary: Responsible for the leadership of the City's library and staff; plans, manages and directs the operations, programs, services and personnel to continually develop a modern community

City of Loveland

City Engineer

Loveland, CO · On-site

$152K - $221K/yr

Job Summary: The City Engineer will step into a vital leadership role as a member of the department's executive team. The Public Works Department has a strong foundation of collaboration across the

City of Loveland, CO

City Engineer

Loveland, CO · On-site

$152K - $221K/yr

Job Summary: The City Engineer will step into a vital leadership role as a member of the department's executive team. The Public Works Department has a strong foundation of collaboration across the

City of Fountain

City Planner I-II

Fountain, CO

$23.75 - $35.25/hr

Description Job Summary The City Planner I-II performs professional planning, development review, project coordination, research, and customer service work related to the administration of the City's

City of Fountain

City Planner I-II

Fountain, CO · On-site

$23.75 - $35.25/hr

Description: Job Summary The City Planner I-II performs professional planning, development review, project coordination, research, and customer service work related to the administration of the

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCity JobsCity Manager JobsCity Manager Jobs in Colorado

City Manager information

See Colorado salary details

$27.9K

$121.4K

$235K

How much do city manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for city manager in Colorado is $121,351.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,400.00 and $157,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 much do city managers make?

In Michigan, city managers typically earn an average annual salary between $80,000 and $130,000, depending on the size of the municipality and experience. Larger cities tend to offer higher compensation, and the role often requires strong leadership, budgeting skills, and knowledge of local government operations.

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 also hold a master's degree, such as a Master of Public Administration (MPA), which can enhance job prospects and effectiveness in the role.

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 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.

How much do city managers get paid?

City managers typically earn a median annual salary between $90,000 and $150,000, depending on the size of the city and region. Larger cities or those with more complex administrative needs tend to offer higher compensation, and many city managers hold advanced degrees and certifications in public administration or related fields.

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.

More about City Manager jobs

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

The most popular types of City jobs in Colorado are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Colorado are hiring for City Manager jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most City Manager job openings:

City Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various City Manager job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $121,351 per year, or $58.3 per hour.

City Manager

Executive Director - GMP Consultants

Lakewood, CO • On-site

$320K - $380K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

My Account
Job Openings >> City Manager
City Manager
Summary
Title: City Manager ID: 1255 Organization: City of Lakewood Location: Lakewood, CO First Review : 06/28/2026
More about this job >
Description

CITY MANAGER
City of Lakewood, Colorado
First Review: June 28, 2026
Salary Range: $320,000 - $380,000 annually DOQ
View the Position Profile
Job Description
Benefits
#    #    #
The City of Lakewood, Colorado is seeking a City Manager for this vibrant community of 156,000 residents located at the base of the Rocky Mountains, adjacent to Denver's western border. As Colorado's fifth-largest city, Lakewood offers the amenities of a major urban region while retaining much of its small-town feel and abundant open space.   
THE CITY OF LAKEWOOD 
The City of Lakewood serves a population of 156,000 across 44 square miles with a 2026 budget of $328 million and a team of 877 FTEs (1,828 including part-time and seasonal staff). Departments include City Attorney, City Clerk, City Manager, Community Resources, Finance & Economic Development, Municipal Courts, Operational Services (HR, Facilities & Infrastructure, Information Technology), Police, Public Works, and Sustainability & Community Development. The City operates under a Home Rule Charter with the Council-Manager form of government. The City Council is comprised of a Mayor elected at large and 10 Council members, two elected from each of the City's five wards.  
THE CITY MANAGER 
The City Manager serves as the Chief Administrative Officer of the City of Lakewood, responsible to the Mayor and City Council for the leadership and administration of all City operations, excluding Municipal Court and the City Attorney's Office. The City Manager collaborates with the Mayor and City Council to identify and address strategic priorities; oversees economic development and intergovernmental partnerships; and ensures City operations reflect the values, goals, and policies set by City Council. The City Manager provides organization-wide leadership to a large, diverse workforce and coordinates fiscal stewardship and service excellence to support the Lakewood community. 
WHY APPLY 
This is a unique opportunity to lead the City of Lakewood, one of Colorado's largest cities, known for its forward-thinking approach to public service. Adjacent to Denver and with easy access to the Rocky Mountains, Lakewood offers both urban amenities and an exceptional outdoor lifestyle. After almost 18 years in the position, the current City Manager is retiring, creating a rare leadership transition.   
The new City Manager will lead a highly professional, collaborative, and well-respected municipal organization with a strong culture of service, stability, and innovation. The City benefits from experienced, long-tenured staff, a supportive and engaged City Council, and a community that values a high quality of life, outdoor amenities, and thoughtful growth. Joining at a pivotal time, the City Manager will help shape economic development, address complex community challenges, and build on a strong organizational foundation. 
For questions on this position, please contact:
Malcolm Fleming  
GMP Consultants
mfleming@gmphr.com
 (780) 982-4121
Apply Now
 
Refer to a Friend
Copyright 2026 GMP Consultants. All rights reserved.
Powered by ApplicantStack Applicant Tracking
Privacy Policy | Terms of Use

Apply