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City Manager Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Human Resources Director

Manassas, VA · On-site

$127K - $235K/yr

... 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

$27.6K

$120.1K

$232.5K

How much do city manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for city manager in Reston, VA is $120,063.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,700.00 and $156,100.00 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.

Human Resources Director

Manassas, VA • On-site

$127K - $235K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Position Summary Customer Service. Stewardship. Honesty.

Integrity. Respect. Teamwork.

If these core principles resonate with you, you might just be the perfect fit for our Human Resources department. With our current leader's upcoming retirement, the City of Manassas is preparing to welcome its next Director of Human Resources who will serve as a member of the City's Senior Staff reporting to the 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 predictable. This is not one of them. This is an opportunity to join a leadership team that values partnership, accountability, and thoughtful decision-making while continuing to strengthen the employee experience across the organization.

The City of Manassas is a vibrant and growing community in Northern Virginia known for its accessibility, strong leadership, and commitment to public service. The organization takes pride in fostering a workplace culture that emphasizes respect, trust, and continuous improvement. Leadership and Culture The City values leaders who are approachable, solutions-oriented, and grounded in integrity.

The ideal candidate will bring a balanced approach that combines strategic thinking with practical implementation and a strong understanding of public sector environments. Key Priorities Continue advancing a positive and consistent employee experience Strengthen partnerships with department leadership Evaluate and enhance HR processes for efficiency and clarity Support leadership development across the organization Maintain compliance while adapting to evolving workforce needs Essential Job Functions The Director of Human Resources will lead all aspects of the City's HR operations and strategy including effective leadership, planning, and administration of the City's human resources department; employee relations, human resource policies & compliance, benefit & leave administration, performance management, city-wide training and development, HRIS, budget administration, talent acquisition/EEO, compensation and classification, risk management and safety compliance. This role will work closely with executive leadership and department heads to: Inform critical decisions including staff selection and development, interpretation and explanation of personnel rules and state/federal laws Develop and present personnel policy recommendations to City Council for approval Strengthen workforce planning and organizational effectiveness in support of citywide goals and objectives Support consistent and fair HR practices across departments Enhance employee engagement and retention efforts Continue building a responsive and trusted HR function Minimum Required Qualifications Master's degree in Human Resources, Public Administration, or related field Seven (7) years of progressively responsible HR leadership experience, ideally in local government PHR/SPHR, SHRM or PSHRA certification is required Strong working knowledge of employment law and HR best practices Demonstrated ability to build trust across a diverse workforce Experience advising senior leadership The ideal candidate will bring a strong foundation and will also be: A steady and trusted advisor who builds credibility quickly Approachable and practical, not overly theoretical Comfortable navigating complex employee relations matters Skilled at balancing consistency with flexibility A collaborative partner who meets departments where they are Focused on solutions, not just policy enforcement They understand that success in this role comes from building relationships, maintaining transparency, and supporting leaders in a way that is both consistent and thoughtful.

Compensation and Benefits Salary range and benefits will be competitive and commensurate with experience. The City of Manassas offers a comprehensive benefits package and a supportive work environment that values balance and flexibility where operationally feasible. Special Requirements Equal Opportunity Employer: The City of Manassas prohibits discrimination against any person in any practice or procedure relating to hiring, promotion, discharge, pay, training, fringe benefits, and other aspects of employment on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, marital status, age, religion, political affiliation, disability which is unrelated to a persons occupational qualifications, or any other non merit factor which is not a bona fide occupational qualification.

Reasonable accommodations which do not impose an undue hardship are available to qualified applicants and employees with disabilities, as defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act, during the recruitment process and during employment. Initial review of applications to begin July 24, 2026. Priority consideration will be given to those that apply quickly.