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County Manager Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

County of Wake, NC

Building Coordinator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

NOTE: In the event of an emergency, as determined by the County Manager or designee,participation in preparedness and response operations should be expected.Employee may be required to fill a ...

Orange County, NC

LIBRARY ASSOCIATE II- ADULT SERVICES*

NC · On-site

$44K - $51K/yr

In the event of an emergency, as determined by the County Manager, the Library Director, or management, participation in preparedness and response operations, as well as critical agency needs, should ...

Orange County, NC

Fire and Life Safety Inspector*

NC · On-site

$59K - $78K/yr

... County Manager, Director of Emergency Services, or management in charge. Work is performed under the general direction of the Fire Marshal with leeway to exercise independent judgment within local ...

Orange County, NC

LIBRARY ASSOCIATE II- YOUTH SERVICES*

NC · On-site

$44K - $51K/yr

In the event of an emergency, as determined by the County Manager, the Library Director, or management, participation in preparedness and response operations, as well as critical agency needs, should ...

Franklin County, NC

Safety and Risk Manager

Louisburg, NC · On-site

$72K - $75K/yr

Franklin County offers a competitive benefit package designed to encourage and support your health ... Administers risk management, loss control, and insurance programs and consults and collaborates ...

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County Manager information

What are county managers?

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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a County Manager, and why are they important?

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 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 job categories do people searching County Manager jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for County Manager jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for County Manager jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most County Manager job openings:
County Manager jobs near you
Director of Planning & Development Services

Director of Planning & Development Services

Wake County

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Wake County rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

147th of 668 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

How to ApplyWake County is partnering with Raftelis to lead the recruitment for our Director of Planning and Development Services.

Applications will be accepted electronically by Raftelis. Applicants complete a brief online form and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. The position will be open until filled with a first review of applications beginning July 9, 2026.

Theexpected hiring range is 158,953 to 222,533, depending on qualifications. WakeCounty offers a comprehensive total compensation package that reflects itscommitment to recruiting and retaining exceptional public sector leaders.

To view the full job description and submit your application, please visit raftelis.com.

The PositionWake County, one of the fastest-growing counties in the nation, is seeking its next Director of Planning and Development Services. The County welcomes approximately 25,000 new residents every year, and the moment calls for a leader who can shape the County's growth with clarity, consistency, and vision. The Director of Planning and Development Services steps into a rare opportunity: to serve as the founding director of a newly established department, build its culture, and guide Wake County's approach to land use, permitting, and environmental stewardship at a pivotal point in its history. For the leader who thrives at the intersection of complex regulatory work, community engagement, and organizational development, this is an extremely compelling opportunity.

The Director leads a department of approximately 100 staff organized across four divisions: Administration, Planning, Building Permits and Inspections, and Watershed Management. The department serves as Wake County's primary authority for administering land development regulations, guided by the County's Unified Development Ordinance, Comprehensive Plan, Stormwater Regulations, and the North Carolina Building Code. Wake County does not exercise zoning authority over municipal jurisdictions, which shapes how the Director engages with the development community and neighboring governments: less as a traditional regulatory enforcer and more as a convener, a resource, and a partner in responsible growth.

The Director has four direct reports (division-level leaders) and is a member of the County's Senior Leadership Team, reporting directly to the County Manager. The Director shapes department strategy, develops and executes the annual business plan, oversees budget planning and fiscal accountability, and monitors state and federal legislation for regulatory impacts. The Director also represents the department in public forums, before the Board of County Commissioners, and in ongoing relationships with municipalities, regional transportation and environmental agencies, homebuilders, and other development stakeholders. Success in this role requires someone who can translate technical complexity into accessible language, who applies rules fairly and consistently across all customers, and who is equally comfortable defending a difficult decision before the development community as they are mentoring a new division manager.

The incoming leader inherits strong foundations: well-regarded regulatory workflows, high-quality staff with deep expertise, and established relationships with the homebuilding community and partner jurisdictions.

What Wake County employees say

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