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County Manager Jobs in Rutherfordton, NC (NOW HIRING)

Permit Specialist

Marion, NC · On-site

$20/hr

Fee Management: Calculate and collect application fees Record and Database Management: Maintain ... McDowell County is an equal opportunity employer. It is the policy of the County to recruit, hire ...

Building Inspector I, II, III

Marion, NC · On-site

$44K - $54K/yr

Reviews plans for compliance with State Building Codes and County ordinances using electronic plan ... rapport with management and staff; an analytical mind with proper decision-making skills ...

Basic proficiency to manage calculations related to support obligations. Relationship-Building ... McDowell County is an equal opportunity employer. It is the policy of the County to recruit, hire ...

A Restaurant Manager reports directly to the Restaurant General Manager. The primary ... county or municipal regulation pertaining to health risk concerns about food handling.

A Restaurant Manager reports directly to the Restaurant General Manager. The primary ... county or municipal regulation pertaining to health risk concerns about food handling.

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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 cities near Rutherfordton, NC are hiring for County Manager jobs? Cities near Rutherfordton, NC with the most County Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various County Manager job openings in Rutherfordton, NC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Black Mountain, Town Manager

Black Mountain, Town Manager

Management Services

Black Mountain, NC

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

The Town of Black Mountain is seeking an experienced public administrator to serve as its next Town Manager. The Town is recovering from a natural disaster in the form of Hurricane Helene, which will provide challenging, yet rewarding work for the individual selected for this position.
Black Mountain is a beautiful and growing community located in Buncombe County, NC. The Town consists of 7 square miles with a vibrant downtown historic district which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and sits 15 miles east of Asheville, NC between the Great Smoky and Black Mountains. With an elevation of 2,405 feet above sea level, the region provides wonderful year-round recreational opportunities. A thriving Black Mountain Downtown district is host to a variety of businesses, festivals and activities throughout the year. This beautiful mountain community strives to maintain its identity and quality of life for year-round residents and the nearly 2 million people who visit annually.
In addition to the Administration department, the Manager will lead the Town's departments including Police, Fire, Public Works and Sanitation Services, Planning and Development, municipal golf course and Parks and Recreation. The Manager will lead continuing infrastructure recovery efforts resulting from the effects of Hurricane Helene. The Town, home to over 8,400 residents, employs 110 full-time employees, 13 volunteer firefighters and six elected officials. Well managed fiscally, the Town has an operating budget of $19,568,250 in FY 25-26, and a $4,035,127 fund balance.
The Town seeks an experienced public administrator with 5 years of progressive experience, including three years of senior organizational management experience, preferably in NC municipal administration. This experience should include directing diverse local government services and supervising staff. The current position is an opportunity to build new positive relationships in the Town and community. The Council well understands the Council-Manager form of government and respects the roles and boundaries of elected policy making and staff implementation.
The basic desired qualifications include a bachelor degree in finance, business, or public administration. A candidate may distinguish themselves with a master's degree. Black Mountain places an emphasis on the Town Manager being a member of the International City and County Management Association (ICMA) and the North Carolina City and County Management Association (NCCCMA). The Council supports and encourages the Manager to be or become an ICMA credentialed manager within a reasonable period of being employed.
More information about the Town of Black Mountain and the connection to submit your letter of interest, resume, and application may be found at www.ptrc.org/blackmountain-townmgr
The hiring range for this position is $150,000 to $175,000 based upon the candidate's qualifications and experience and is supplemented by an excellent benefits package.
Position open until filled with review of candidates to begin on April 7th, 2026.
The Town of Black Mountain is an equal opportunity employer.