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City Manager Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Legislative Director

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$141K - $253K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

The City Manager's administrative staff serves as a liaison with City departments and with other governmental entities receiving funding from the City, but not reporting to the City Manager, and ...

Legislative Director

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$141K - $253K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

City Manager's Office Opening Date: 08/14/2026 Closing Date: 9/14/2026 11:59 PM Eastern Bargaining Unit: N/A Legislative Director Overview: The Legislative Director serves as the primary advocate and ...

Director

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$141.48 - $253.37/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Reporting to a Deputy City Manager, the Director will play a key role in shaping how the City responds during emergencies while improving how residents, businesses, and visitors interact with City ...

... City Manager. This is a key leadership role responsible for guiding a people-first HR function that supports a collaborative and service-driven organization. There are HR jobs where the days are ...

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City Manager information

See Reston, VA salary details

$28K

$122K

$236.2K

How much do city manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for city manager in Reston, VA is $121,965.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,800.00 and $158,500.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of City jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of City jobs in Reston, VA are:

What job categories do people searching City Manager jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for City Manager jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for City Manager jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most City Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various City Manager job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,965 per year, or $58.6 per hour.

Legislative Director

City of Alexandria

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$141K - $253K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


City Of Alexandria (Louisiana) rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

451st of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Legislative Director Overview: The Legislative Director serves as the primary advocate and liaison for the City of Alexandria with the Virginia General Assembly, the Governor's administration, and federal policymakers. This position is responsible for advancing the City's legislative agenda at the state and federal levels, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities, and fostering collaborative relationships to support Alexandria's policy and budgetary goals. About the City Manager's Office: The Alexandria City Manager is appointed by the City Council to be the chief administrative officer of the City.

The City Manager's administrative staff serves as a liaison with City departments and with other governmental entities receiving funding from the City, but not reporting to the City Manager, and generally administers the City government. If you are curious for a broader view, click the City of Alexandria to learn more about our great City. This position reports to a Deputy City Manager within the City Manager's Office.

Key Responsibilities: State Legislative Advocacy Lead the development, presentation, and execution of the City's legislative agenda during General Assembly sessions. Monitor and analyze state legislation, budget proposals, and policy developments that impact the City. Build and maintain strong working relationships with members of the General Assembly, the Governor's administration, and legislative staff.

Provide timely updates and strategic recommendations to City leadership regarding legislative activities and their implications. Federal Legislative Advocacy Manage the City's federal lobbying program to ensure alignment with the City's priorities and effective advocacy efforts. Develop and advance the City's federal legislative package, focusing on policy and budget priorities.

Build and maintain relationships with the City's congressional delegation and their staff to advocate for Alexandria's federal interests. Monitor federal legislation, regulatory changes, and appropriations opportunities that could affect the City. Coordinate advocacy efforts for federal funding and grant opportunities in partnership with City departments and external stakeholders.

Policy and Stakeholder Engagement Collaborate with City departments to identify and align legislative priorities with operational needs. Represent the City's interests in meetings, hearings, and discussions with state and federal stakeholders. Foster partnerships with other local governments, municipal associations, and regional organizations to support shared legislative goals.

Legislative Tracking and Reporting Track and manage all state and federal legislation relevant to the City, identifying risks and opportunities. Prepare clear, concise reports and briefings for City Council, the City Manager, and department heads on legislative matters. Budget Advocacy Advocate for state and federal funding to support the City's projects and initiatives.

Engage with state and federal budget committees and agencies to advance Alexandria's financial interests. Public Communication and Outreach Communicate the City's legislative efforts and successes to residents, businesses, and other stakeholders. Draft public statements, testimony, and correspondence on behalf of City leadership.

Administrative Oversight Manage the legislative team and consultants, ensuring effective coordination and resource allocation. Ensure compliance with lobbying disclosure requirements and reporting obligations. This role requires a deep understanding of legislative processes at both the state and federal levels, exceptional political acumen, and the ability to prioritize key responsibilities to maximize the City's success in achieving its policy and budgetary objectives.

Minimum & Additional Requirements Minimum: Four-Year College Degree; at least five years of experience in government at the Federal, State, or local level; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. Must have significant experience in the legislative process, experience working with the Virginia General Assembly and navigating Virginia's state legislative process, and some knowledge of or experience in the Federal legislative process. Significant experience with written and verbal presentations.

Preferred Qualifications Master's Degree or law degree and will have experience in multiple levels/areas of government (i.e., local/state/federal; executive and legislative). Additional experience in State and Federal budget development desired. Virginia State legislative experience is highly desirable for this position

Experience working with the Virginia General Assembly and navigating Virginia's state legislative process. Notes The work of this position requires the temporary relocation to Richmond, Virginia when the Virginia General Assembly is in session, as well as weekly trips back and forth between Alexandria and Richmond when the General Assembly is in session, as well as frequent trips to Richmond during the balance of the year to attend legislative committee and other meetings. The City funds the cost of the temporary relocations, as well as travel and other expenses.

The primary work location for this position is the City of Alexandria. Legislative Director Brochure Pease note that the work location for this role is: 421 King St., 2nd Floor. Alexandria, VA

22314 This position requires the successful completion of pre-employment background checks including but not limited to a criminal background check. CITY BENEFITS Retirement- City of Alexandria Supplemental Retirement Plan Virginia Retirement System (VRS) Voluntary Retirement Savings Plan Medical, Dental, Vision- City covers 75-80% Administrative Leave- 13 days per year Holidays- 13 paid holidays Sick leave- 12 days per year Bereavement Leave- 3 days per occurrence Tuition Reimbursement & Professional Development- $3200 per fiscal year Long-Term Disability (LTD)- City paid; Additional buy-up option available Flexible Spending Account (FSA)-Medical and Dependent Care available Transit Benefits- Up to $270 per month for employees who utilize public transit Access to our on-site gyms near City Hall (equipment includes treadmills, weights, Peloton bikes, elliptical etc.) Jet Dental - an onsite dental service twice per year Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Employee wellness and development programs Other City discounts through partnerships The City of Alexandria is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in its workforce. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, genetic information, military status, or disability.


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