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County Administrator Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

The County Administrator works in partnership with the County Board, department heads, employees, municipalities, and community partners to protect and enhance the quality of life for all who live ...

New

Human Resources Director

Sturgeon Bay, WI · On-site

$109K - $125K/yr

The position operates with delegated authority from the County Administrator to make and enforce routine human resources decisions, while coordinating with the County Administrator on high-risk ...

More detailed information on each board/committee may be obtained from the related department, or by contacting the County Administrator or County Clerk offices. Qualifications Qualifications will ...

Description/Summary SUMMARY Under the general direction of the County Administrator, the purpose of this position is to plan, organize, and direct all activities of the Information Technology ...

Serve as the Executive Contract Administrator for IT service related contracts and advise Green County departments and staff on IT services and purchases. * Develop, administer, and maintain annual ...

RISK MANAGER

La Crosse, WI · On-site

$83K - $111K/yr

Why This Role Matters This position reports directly to the County Administrator and partners closely with Corporation Counsel, Finance, and Human Resources. You will be the county's primary expert ...

IT Director

Sheboygan, WI · On-site

$114K - $134K/yr

Working closely with the County Administrator, County Board, department heads, and other stakeholders, the IT Director oversees technology planning, operations, cybersecurity, compliance, budgeting ...

IT Director

Sheboygan, WI · On-site

$114K - $134K/yr

Working closely with the County Administrator, County Board, department heads, and other stakeholders, the IT Director oversees technology planning, operations, cybersecurity, compliance, budgeting ...

Student Nursing Assistant

Janesville, WI · On-site

$14 - $17.75/hr

... The County Administrator may designate additional holidays in unusual circumstances with the approval of the County Board Chair and/or Vice Chair. For employees working the standard work schedule ...

Student Nursing Assistant

Janesville, WI · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

... The County Administrator may designate additional holidays in unusual circumstances with the approval of the County Board Chair and/or Vice Chair. For employees working the standard work schedule ...

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County Administrator information

See Wisconsin salary details

$32.8K

$107.9K

$165.5K

How much do county administrator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for county administrator in Wisconsin is $107,942.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,700.00 and $142,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a county administrator?

County Administrators are appointed officials responsible for overseeing the daily operations of county government. They implement policies set by the county board or commission, manage county departments, prepare budgets, and ensure that county services are delivered efficiently. County Administrators act as a liaison between elected officials, county staff, and the public, and often play a key role in strategic planning and resource allocation. Their work ensures that local government functions smoothly and meets the needs of residents.

What does a county administrator do?

A county administrator’s job is to oversee the daily operations of a county government. You are the go-between for the county board of directors and the various departments, such as sanitation, water reclamation, and health administration. As a county manager, your duties include creating and reviewing budgets for the different departments; discussing local issues with department heads, clients, and the public; attending public hearings and city council meetings, and being present during emergency situations. You are often at board and department meetings, and you do outreach to secure more investment, such as new construction or job creation, from private industry and the state government.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a county administrator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a County Administrator, you need a solid background in public administration, finance, and management, typically supported by a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree. Familiarity with budgeting software, government regulations, and project management tools is essential for the role. Strategic leadership, strong communication, and conflict resolution skills help foster collaboration among departments and with the public. These skills ensure effective governance and the efficient delivery of county services to meet community needs.

What are some common challenges faced by a county administrator, and how can they be effectively managed?

County Administrators often encounter challenges such as balancing the interests of various stakeholders, managing tight budgets, and overseeing multiple departments with competing priorities. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and the ability to build consensus among county commissioners, staff, and the public are essential for success. Administrators can address these challenges by maintaining transparency, fostering teamwork, and staying informed about best practices in local government management.

What is the difference between County Administrator vs County Clerk?

AspectCounty AdministratorCounty Clerk
Primary RoleOversees daily county operations, implements policies, manages departmentsMaintains official records, manages elections, issues licenses
Required CredentialsOften requires a master's degree in public administration or related fieldTypically requires a high school diploma or associate degree; some positions prefer experience in record-keeping or administration
Work EnvironmentAdministrative offices, government departmentsClerk offices, government buildings
Employer & Industry UsageCounty governments, public sectorCounty governments, public sector

While both roles serve county governments, the County Administrator focuses on managing operations and policy implementation, whereas the County Clerk handles record-keeping and administrative documentation. They work closely but have distinct responsibilities within local government.

Are county government jobs hard to get?

County administrator positions are competitive and typically require extensive experience in public administration, leadership, and often a relevant master's degree. The hiring process involves multiple steps, including interviews and background checks, and candidates with strong management skills and knowledge of local government are preferred.

What are the duties of a County Administrator?

A County Administrator is responsible for managing the daily operations of county government, implementing policies set by the county board, preparing budgets, overseeing departments, and ensuring efficient delivery of public services. They often coordinate with elected officials, staff, and community stakeholders to meet the county's goals and may require strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of County Administrator jobs in Wisconsin?

The most popular types of County Administrator jobs in Wisconsin are:

What are popular job titles related to County Administrator jobs in Wisconsin?

For County Administrator jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching County Administrator jobs in Wisconsin look for?

The top searched job categories for County Administrator jobs in Wisconsin are:

What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for County Administrator jobs?

Cities in Wisconsin with the most County Administrator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to County Administrator jobs in WI?

For County Administrator jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various County Administrator job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,942 per year, or $51.9 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description


Sawyer County is seeking an experienced, visionary leader to serve as its next County Administrator. This is an outstanding opportunity to lead a full-service county government committed to excellent services, responsible leadership, and a strong future for our communities.
The County Administrator works in partnership with the County Board, department heads, employees, municipalities, and community partners to protect and enhance the quality of life for all who live, work, and visit Sawyer County.
Well-qualified candidates will have a bachelor's degree (master's preferred) in public/business administration, finance or a related field, at least six years of progressively responsible administrative/leadership experience in county or municipal government, or a combination of training, experience, and administrative ability that demonstrates the candidate's ability to perform the duties of the position successfully.
A LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE AN IMPACT
Executive Leadership: Provide visionary leadership and collaborative decision-making to advance the County's mission.
Budget & Finance: Ensure sound fiscal management, transparency, and long-term stability.
Strategic Planning: Develop and implement strategic initiatives that promote innovation and continuous improvement.
Community Partnership: Build strong relationships with municipalities, businesses, and community partners.
Organizational Development: Foster a positive work culture and support employee growth, engagement, and professionalism.
Policy & Service Delivery: Implement effective policies and ensure high-quality services that meet community needs.
EXCELLENT BENEFITS
• Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS)
• Comprehensive Health Insurance
• Dental & Vision Insurance
• Paid Vacation, Sick Leave & Holidays
• Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Professional Development Opportunities
LIVE WHERE OTHERS VACATION
MILES OF SCENIC HIKING, BIKING, SKIING, ATV/UTV & SNOWMOBILE TRAILS • WORLD CLASS OUTDOOR RECREATION • STRONG FAMILY FRIENDLY COMMUNITIES • HOME OF THE AMERICAN BIRKEBEINER & WORLD LUMBERJACK CHAMPIONSHIP
RECRUITMENT TIMELINE
Applications Due: September 22, 2026 | Interviews: September 28-29, 2026 |
County Board Confirmation: October 5, 2026
APPLY BY SEPTEMBER 22, 2026
SUBMIT TO SAWYER COUNTY HUMAN RESOURCES (715-638-3223)
Qualified candidates are invited to submit a cover letter, resume, and 5 professional references.
10610 Main Street, Hayward, WI 54843 • hr@sawyercountygov.org • www.sawyercountygov.org
SAWYER COUNTY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER