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City Manager Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Raftelis

City Manager

Falls Church, VA · On-site

The next City Manager will guide the community through its continued evolution while honoring the values and character that make the City of Falls Church a special place to live, work, and raise a ...

City of Roanoke, VA

Chief Financial Officer

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$141K - $226K/yr

The Position Reporting directly to the City Manager or an Assistant City Manager, the Chief Financial Officer provides executive leadership for the City's Finance Department and serves as a trusted ...

City of Hopewell

Public Works Director

Hopewell, VA

$160K/yr

Manages construction contracts for the City; oversees project management for the construction of the municipal public works projects; coordinates and monitors the work of contractors; makes field ...

City of Hampton

Beach Lifeguard WAE

Hampton, VA · On-site

$18.29/hr

The incumbent may be considered "essential personnel" during City emergency situations or at the direction of the City Manager which may include long hours and unusual schedules. For a complete click ...

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All JobsCity JobsCity Manager JobsCity Manager Jobs in Virginia

City Manager information

See Virginia salary details

$26.3K

$114.4K

$221.6K

How much do city manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for city manager in Virginia is $114,416.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,400.00 and $148,700.00 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 Virginia? The most popular types of City jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to City Manager jobs in Virginia? For City Manager jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching City Manager jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for City Manager jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for City Manager jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most City Manager job openings:
City Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various City Manager job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,416 per year, or $55 per hour.

City Manager

Raftelis

Falls Church, VA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

The City of Falls Church is an independent city located approximately six miles west of the nation's capital, adjacent to Arlington County and Fairfax County in Northern Virginia. Known affectionately as "The Little City," Falls Church is small in area but rich in history, community spirit, and civic engagement. The City's heritage dates to the late 1600s as an early colonial settlement, and it was incorporated as a town in 1875, and as an independent city in 1948.

The City is home to approximately 16,000 residents who treasure its unique blend of small-town warmth and urban accessibility. Over 90% of residents rate their quality of life in the City of Falls Church as high. The Falls Church City Public School system is one of Virginia's top-rated school systems and a primary reason families choose to live here. The City also features a thriving commercial base, with locally owned restaurants, shops, and mixed-use developments that contribute to a vibrant and walkable city.

The City's location within the Northern Virginia region provides unmatched access to the resources and opportunities of the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area, including Metro transit access, proximity to major employment centers, and connections to world-class cultural and recreational amenities. At the same time, the City maintains its own distinct identity. Major community traditions include the weekly, year-round Farmers Market, the Memorial Day Parade, and the Falls Church Festival. Residents are deeply engaged in civic life, and boards and commissions attract talented volunteers who contribute meaningfully to City governance.

The City of Falls Church has experienced significant transformation over the past decade, adding nearly 2,000 housing units through mixed-use developments while investing in infrastructure upgrades, school facilities, and public spaces. This growth has created both opportunities and challenges. The next City Manager will guide the community through its continued evolution while honoring the values and character that make the City of Falls Church a special place to live, work, and raise a family.

Learn more about the City from the City’s website.

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