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County Executive Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Director of Equity & Inclusion

VA · On-site

$137K - $219K/yr

Reporting directly to the County Executive and serving as a member of the Executive Leadership Team, this cabinet-level leader will shape the future of a high-performing, human-centered organization ...

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County Executive information

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$26.5K

$93.6K

$184K

How much do county executive jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for county executive in the United States is $93,552.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,000.00 and $120,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are county government jobs hard to get?

County executive positions are competitive and typically require extensive experience in public administration, leadership skills, and a strong understanding of local government operations. Candidates often need a combination of education, such as a degree in public administration or related fields, and a record of public service or management success. The hiring process can be rigorous, involving multiple interviews and background checks.

What is the difference between County Executive vs County Commissioner?

AspectCounty ExecutiveCounty Commissioner
CredentialsTypically requires experience in public administration or politics, sometimes a degree in public policy or related fieldsOften requires local government experience; educational requirements vary
Work EnvironmentExecutive leadership, policy implementation, administrative oversightLegislative role, policy approval, local governance
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in counties with a strong executive system, often in larger or more urban countiesCommon in counties with a commission-based government structure

The main difference is that the County Executive acts as the chief executive officer, overseeing daily operations and implementing policies, while the County Commissioner serves as part of the legislative body, making laws and policies for the county. The roles vary depending on the county's government structure, with the County Executive typically holding more administrative authority.

What are some typical challenges a county executive may face when balancing stakeholder interests within local government?

County Executives often encounter the challenge of balancing diverse interests among residents, elected officials, and department leaders. Navigating differing priorities—such as budget constraints, public service needs, and policy initiatives—requires strong negotiation and communication skills. Additionally, County Executives must remain adaptable as unexpected issues, like emergencies or legislative changes, can quickly shift priorities. Building consensus and maintaining transparency are key to effectively leading county operations while addressing varied stakeholder concerns.

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

To thrive as a County Executive, you need a strong background in public administration, budget management, and policy development, often supported by a relevant degree and significant leadership experience. Familiarity with government financial software, public sector regulations, and strategic planning tools is typically required. Exceptional communication, negotiation, and decision-making skills help in building consensus and leading diverse teams. These competencies are vital for ensuring effective county operations, fiscal responsibility, and responsive governance.

What is a county executive?

County Executives are the chief elected or appointed officials responsible for overseeing the administration of county government. Their duties typically include managing county departments, preparing budgets, implementing policies set by the county legislature, and representing the county in intergovernmental affairs. County Executives play a key role in ensuring efficient delivery of public services, such as law enforcement, public health, and public works. The specific powers and responsibilities of a County Executive can vary depending on local laws and the county's charter.
What cities are hiring for County Executive jobs? Cities with the most County Executive job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of County jobs? The most popular types of County jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for County Executive jobs? The top employers for County Executive jobs are:
What states have the most County Executive jobs? States with the most job openings for County Executive jobs include:
Infographic showing various County Executive job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,552 per year, or $45 per hour.

County Executive Director - Expanded

Farm Service Agency

Selby, SD • On-site, Remote

$40K - $116K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Summary
This is a County Executive Director Expanded position located in the Walworth County Farm Service Agency Office, in Selby, South Dakota.
Per 27-PM, Par. 472E, this vacancy is being advertised with an expanded area of consideration.
This vacancy is open to current permanent FSA CO and GS FSA Federal employees within the state of South Dakota only.

Learn more about this agency
Duties
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  • Responsible for directing and managing program and administrative operations for one or more counties.
  • Carrying out permanent and ad hoc farm bill programs and policies established by USDA as well as crop insurance operations under policies established by the Risk Management Agency (RMA).
  • Providing basic FSA farm loan program services.
  • May perform additional farm loan program assignments based on authorities delegated.
  • Performing office and field activities as needed to accomplish program objectives.
  • Managing and directs activities of subordinate staff.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • You must be a US Citizen or US National.
  • Males born after 12/31/1959 must be Selective Service Registered or Exempt.
  • Must be a high school graduate or equivalent.
  • Must be 18 years of age or 17 years of age for high school graduates.
  • Subject to satisfactory adjudication of background investigation and/or fingerprint check.
  • Direct Deposit - Per Public Law 104-134 all Federal employees are required to have federal payments made by direct deposit to their financial institution.
  • Successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit https://www.e-verify.gov/.
  • Successful completion of one-year supervisory/managerial probationary period, if required.
  • Financial Disclosure Required (FSA-324).

Qualifications
Qualifications are in accordance with requirements in Handbook 27-PM.
Applicants must meet all qualification and eligibility requirements by the closing date in the announcement. including the following specialized experience and/or education, as identified below:
You may start at the CO-05 level if you have one of the following qualifications:
  • Successful completion of four years of education above high school in an accredited business, secretarial or technical, junior college, college or university in any field in which high school graduation or the equivalent is a prerequisite or bachelor's degree from such an accredited college or university. OR
  • At least one year of general work experience in support of projects, programs, or assignments providing a requisite knowledge of agricultural operations, agricultural management, governmental programs, or related office and customer service functions that indicate the ability to: analyze problems, gather pertinent data, and recognize solutions; plan and organize work; resolve conflict; communicate effectively both orally and in writing. OR
  • A combination of education and experience as described above.

You may start at the CO-07 level if you have one of the following qualifications:
  • Successful completion of one full year of graduate education from an accredited college or university. OR
  • Superior Academic Achievement: A bachelor's degree in any field of study from an accredited college or university with either:
    • grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 based on a 4.0 scale;
    • 3.5 GPA based on a 4.0 scale for required courses completed in a major field of study during the last two years of undergraduate study;
    • class standing of upper third of the graduating class in the college, university, or major subdivision of the college;
    • membership in a National Scholastic Honor Society certified by the Association of College Honor Societies, excluding freshman honor societies.

An applicant must submit an unofficial copy of their transcript at the initial phase of the application process demonstrating that they qualify based on superior academic achievement. If selected for the position, an official transcript must be provided from the college or university before the applicant entering on duty. OR
  • One-year specialized experience equivalent to grade CO-5 or GS-5 level. Specialized experience is experience that demonstrates knowledge of basic principles, concepts, and methods of fact-finding, analysis, and problem-solving techniques as they apply to the analysis, evaluation, and application of agricultural program requirements. In addition, knowledge of and skill in applying analytical and evaluative techniques to assist in assessing the effectiveness and efficiency of agricultural program operations to make recommendations for improvements. OR
  • Six months of experience as a CED or CEDT at the CO-5 level. OR
  • A combination of education and experience as described above.

You may start at the CO-09 level if you have one of the following qualifications:
  • A Master's or equivalent graduate degree or two full academic years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to such a degree from an accredited college or university. OR
  • One-year experience equivalent to at least grade CO-7 or GS-7 in the federal service. Experience demonstrates knowledge of agricultural program policies and practices to independently examine applications, supporting documents, and program reports. In addition, experience applying analytical and evaluative techniques to assist in assessing the effectiveness and efficiency of agricultural program operations to make recommendations for improvements. OR
  • 1 year of any supervisory experience.
  • A combination of education and experience as described above.

You may start at the CO-11 level if you have one of the following qualifications:
  • One-year experience equivalent to at least grade CO-9 or GS-9 in the federal service.

You may start at the CO-12 level if you have one of the following qualifications:
  • One-year experience equivalent to at least grade CO-11 or GS-11 in the federal service.

If the selectee is not a current CED or has not successfully completed the CEDT program, then successful completion of the CEDT training program per requirements in handbook 27-PM paragraphs 472P and 477 is required.
Education
College Transcript: If you are qualifying based on education, submit a copy of your college transcript that lists college courses detailing each course by the number and department (i.e., bio 101, math 210, etc.), course title, number of credit hours and grade earned. You must submit with your application package evidence that any education completed in a foreign institution was appropriately accredited by an accredited body recognized by the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Education as equivalent to U.S. Education standards. You may submit an unofficial copy of the transcript at the initial phase of the application process; however, if selected, you will be required to submit official transcripts prior to entering on duty. Please refer to the "How to Apply" section for instructions on submitting the transcript.
Additional information
  • Veterans preference does not apply since this position is being advertised under Title 7 authorities.
  • Relocation expenses are not authorized.
  • When promotion potential is shown, the agency is not making a commitment and is not obligated to provide future promotions to you if you are selected. Future promotions will be dependent on your ability to perform the duties at a higher level, the continuing need for an employee assigned to the higher level, and administrative approval.
  • This is a Title 7, Non-Federal, Non-Civil Service position.
  • This announcement may be used to fill one or more vacancies.
  • Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact: USDAs TARGET Center at 202-720-2600 (voice and TDD).

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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.