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County Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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The County Program Manager is an energetic, collaborative and results-oriented leader who will supervise Master's level social work and multi-disciplinary case management staff and manage overall ...

Deputy County Counsel I-IV

Eureka, CA · On-site

$36.72 - $76.82/hr

Advises County departmental management concerning their respective duties, powers, functions and obligations. * Performs a wide range of legal work in such areas as juvenile, child welfare, criminal ...

CA · Hybrid

$178K - $211K/yr

... management leave annually (currently granted in January of each year) 11 paid County holidays ... annually) A choice of health, dental, and vision plans with a significant employer contribution ...

COUNTY PARK RANGER II

Bradley, CA · On-site

$19 - $23.50/hr

The Public Works, Facilities & Parks Department (PWFP) brings together a range of functions to ensure safe building construction, plan for the future needs of the County, manage infrastructure and ...

County Surveyor

Sonora, CA · On-site

$101K - $123K/yr

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS This is a management classification responsible for planning, organizing, reviewing, and evaluating all of the County Surveyor's operations and programs. Responsibilities ...

As the Human Resources Department of Nevada County works to become one of the best HR Departments in the State, we are excited to add to our team. We work in a fast-paced environment that requires ...

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County Manager information

See California salary details

$39.2K

$112.9K

$195.4K

How much do county manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for county manager in California is $112,898.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,130.00 and $127,789.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a county manager?

County managers are appointed officials responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of a county government. They implement policies set by the county board or commission, manage county departments, prepare budgets, and ensure efficient delivery of public services. County managers act as the chief administrative officer and often serve as a liaison between elected officials, county staff, and the public. Their role is essential in ensuring that the county runs smoothly and that local government functions are carried out effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a county manager?

To thrive as a County Manager, you need a strong background in public administration, budgeting, and organizational leadership, typically supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in public administration or a related field. Familiarity with government management software, financial systems, and regulatory frameworks is essential. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and negotiation skills help build consensus and lead diverse teams effectively. These skills ensure efficient county operations, sound fiscal management, and the ability to address complex community needs.

What are some common challenges a county manager faces when balancing the needs of different departments and stakeholders?

County Managers often encounter the challenge of allocating limited resources while addressing the diverse needs of various departments, elected officials, and community groups. This requires strong negotiation and communication skills, as well as the ability to prioritize initiatives that align with the county's strategic goals. Balancing transparency, fiscal responsibility, and political considerations is a daily part of the role, and successful managers foster collaboration among departments to achieve the best outcomes for the community.

What is the difference between County Manager vs County Clerk?

AspectCounty ManagerCounty Clerk
Primary ResponsibilitiesOversees daily operations, implements policies, manages budgetsMaintains official records, issues licenses, manages elections
Required CredentialsTypically requires a master's degree in public administration or related fieldOften requires a high school diploma or associate degree; some positions prefer experience in record-keeping or administration
Work EnvironmentAdministrative offices, government departmentsClerical offices, public service environments
Employer & Industry UsageLocal government, county administrationsCounty governments, municipal offices

The County Manager and County Clerk roles serve different functions within local government. The County Manager focuses on managing operations and implementing policies, often requiring advanced education in public administration. The County Clerk handles record-keeping and administrative tasks related to elections and official documents. Both roles are essential for effective county governance but differ significantly in responsibilities and qualifications.

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

The most popular types of County jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to County Manager jobs in California?

For County Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for County Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most County Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various County Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,898 per year, or $54.3 per hour.

County Program Manager

Oakland, CA • On-site

First Place for Youth
Individual, Family and Community Social Assistance • 11 - 50 employees

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 9 hours ago


Job description

First Place For Youth-Join Our Team Video!
Are you dedicated to empowering and supporting youth, regardless of their background? We're searching for passionate individuals to make a positive impact on the lives of foster youth. Become an integral part of their transformative journey and join the First Place for Youth team. 

About First Place for Youth, we’re a leading non-profit organization dedicated to supporting foster youth in their transition to adulthood, with a focus on education, employment, and housing. We believe that all young people deserve the opportunity to thrive and lead successful, independent lives. Our comprehensive programs empower foster youth to overcome the unique challenges they face and build the skills, confidence, and connections they need to succeed. 

Why Work at First Place For Youth:

  • Meaningful Impact:  Help to transform the lives of foster youth on the cusp of adulthood. Your role will support them in their journey to conquer challenges, achieve independence, and fulfill their aspirations.
  • Innovative Approach: We thrive on innovation, pushing the boundaries of foster care support. Your voice here matters, and you’ll contribute to programs that redefine the futures of these young lives.
  • Collaborative and Supportive Environment: Embrace a dynamic and supportive workplace, where every team member is valued. Together, we're a force dedicated to uplifting youth. Expect professional growth, fueled by teamwork and collaboration.
  • Comprehensive Benefits: We value the well-being of our employees and offer a comprehensive benefits package. From health and wellness benefits to retirement plans, we ensure that our team members are taken care of so they can focus on their important work supporting foster youth.
  • Culture of Diversity and Inclusion: We celebrate diversity in every form. At First Place for Youth, inclusivity reigns, creating a workplace where all voices are heard, respected, and empowered.

POSITION SUMMARY: The County Manager is an energetic, collaborative and results-oriented leader who will supervise Master’s level social work and multi-disciplinary case management staff and manage overall operations of an integrated services program including housing, employment and education, intensive case management, My First Place, for 18-24-year-old transition-age foster and former foster youth. The Manager provides leadership to a staff team of 5-8 professional and additional support staff ensuring effective, accurate program implementation, excellence in participant care, adherence to First Place for Youth policies, and efficient operations. The Manager is responsible to monitor outcomes toward achieving program and individual youth outcomes. The Manager participates on the middle management team and is responsible to coordinate with other agency departments, hire and evaluate staff teams, develop resources and implement training to ensure a well-trained high functioning team, and to provide direct oversight of all aspects of program to ensure quality and compliance. The County Manager reports to the Director of Programs. This position requires a clinical professional whose passion for First Place’s vision is matched with energetic leadership, sound judgment in the face of complex challenges, and a proven track record of successfully managing direct-service teams. This is currently a hybrid position requiring onsite work at a minimum of two-three days per week-and/or as needed depending on business need. However, it is subject to change depending on the needs of the department and the organization.

DUTIES + RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Program Staff Supervision 

  • Hire, train, develop and supervise/coach a multi-disciplinary team of social work and case management staff including Youth Advocates/Social Workers and Employment and Education Specialists. Lead team members in setting personal and program-wide work goals and in maintaining accountability for goal achievement. Facilitate regular weekly program staff meetings. Conduct annual reviews of direct reports.
  • Ensure fidelity to program model through weekly individual supervision with each staff person including routine field observations of staff. Lead or co-lead a clinical supervision group for clinical staff and staff working toward licensure, as assigned. Monitor staff effectiveness and support professional growth through review of outcome and practice data.
  • Provide training and consultation grounded in evidence-based practice and First Place for Youth guiding principles including but not limited to trauma-informed care, positive youth development, strength-based approach and motivational interviewing. With management team, implement, train, and coach staff in best practice strategies.
  • Ensure quality of services and accuracy and timeliness of all aspects of participant records including timely submission of all utilization, fidelity and outcome data. Participate in meetings to review participant progress and utilize data to evaluate progress and consider strategies to recalibrate intervention to ensure success. Include development of team-based strategies and excellent collaboration among team members.
  • Ensure that all My First-Place staff are aligned with mission, values, and goals of First Place, capable of acting as ambassadors for the agency at all times, and focused on achieving outcomes, including integrated use of data and evaluative feedback.
  • Provide direct intervention as needed including consultative support, crisis intervention, participation in or facilitation of meetings with youth, county workers, or others, and conflict mediation.

Program Operations 

  • Oversee day-to-day operations and effective functioning of assigned team; track outcomes, manage budget and grants, implement case plans for youth working in conjunction with their support team, contribute to and ensure compliance with program policy and ensure retention of youth in housing.
  • Provide leadership and guidance to staff on all components and processes of First Place for Youth programs with particular emphasis on assigned program.
  • As assigned, implement intake and referral system to ensure full census, low vacancy, and retention of youth in program. Effectively manage team to ensure baseline and in program assessments, summaries and action plans are timely and accurate.
  • Develop and maintain effective working relationships with community partners including County Social Work and Probation staff and supervisors.
  • Participate in the implementation of First Place’s outreach and marketing strategy to promote referrals, education about services, and utilization of First Place programming and services as assigned.
  • Champion Continuous Quality Improvement and participate on other committees as assigned.

Leadership and Cross-Functional Collaboration 

  • Work closely with the Director of Programs and the Management Team to provide leadership to the organization’s programs. Support on-going development and evaluation of highly effective programs and organizational systems. Collaborate to ensure that housing and support services are being effectively and cohesively delivered to all youth in the region. Contribute to the development of and ensure adherence to aggressive, measurable, and strategic operational and performance goals. Actively participate in regularly scheduled Managers meetings, agency staff meetings, and individual supervision with the Regional Director of Programs.
  • Provide strategic direction to First Place’s programs, utilizing data from assessments, reports and evaluations to recommend improvements to the program and interventions employed with youth participants. Incorporate performance management best practices in the management and delivery of services to improve retention and increase outcomes.