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County Manager Jobs in Rutherfordton, NC (NOW HIRING)

Recreation Management Intern

Marion, NC

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

The McDowell County Parks & Recreation Internship is designed to provide college students and ... Understand risk management and safety procedures. . Complete an independent capstone project.

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County Manager information

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 job categories do people searching County Manager jobs in Rutherfordton, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for County Manager jobs in Rutherfordton, NC are:

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

$46K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Inspect building, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical construction work to ensure compliance with codes and ordinances.

  • Review site plans, blueprints, and specifications, and issue building permits.

  • Maintain inspection records, prepare reports, and communicate code requirements to citizens and contractors.


Job description

Description General Statement of Duties Performs inspections work of building and property within the County to ensure compliance with state codes and local ordinances. Distinguishing Features of the Class An employee in this class inspects construction work in process to enforce State codes for building construction including the four trades areas of building, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical codes. Work involves performing skilled inspections to determine the quality of workmanship, materials, and safety precautions; requires exercising judgment in interpreting state codes.

Technical judgment is required to interpret provisions of the codes as applied to practical construction projects and circumstances. Inspections may require some physical effort and are performed under hazards present in dealing with construction work in progress. The employee is subject to inside and outside environmental conditions and extremely hot and cold temperatures.

Applicants presently accredited with NC credentials may qualify for a higher starting salary. Examples of Duties Essential Duties and Tasks Reviews site plans, blue prints, and specifications and receives applications for permits; issues building permits. Inspects building construction for compliance with building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical codes.

Advises contractors in interpreting and applying code regulations. Notifies responsible parties of defects and re-inspects to determine if corrective actions have been taken; issues stop orders if necessary. Maintains records of inspections and prepares necessary reports.

Communicates with citizens concerning code requirements. Additional Job Duties May be required to testify in court against violations of the state building code. Additional Job Duties Performs related duties as required.

Supplemental Information Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Knowledge of State building and related codes, and local ordinances Knowledge in reading and interpreting plans, specifications and blueprints accurately and to compare them with construction in process Knowledge in the use of permitting and mobile inspection software Knowledge in preparing correspondence, documents and reports; thorough knowledge in the use of standard office equipment and associated software Knowledge in the use of equipment associated with the position Skills to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing Skills to make arithmetic computations; ability to compute rates, ratios and percentages Ability to understand and apply governmental accounting practices in maintenance of financial records Ability to enforce ordinances and regulations with firmness, tact and impartiality Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates, business owners, builders, engineers, architects, elected officials and the general public. Typical Qualifications Minimum Requirements and Experience Graduation from high school supplemented by trade school course work in building construction trades and considerable experience in construction trades work. Or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Prefer some experience in the enforcement of state and local codes. Prefer possession of commercial contractor's license in one trade area. Successful pre-employment drug screen.

Successful criminal Background check. Valid state driver's license. Physical Demands The ability to perform all duties associated with the position including, but not limited to lifting, prolonged standing, driving, sitting, bending, stooping, and operating or performing work with associated tools and machines.

Special Requirements Building Inspector employees are required to pass and maintain standard state certification as a Building Inspector in building, plumbing, heating, electrical, and fire prevention at standard Level I within two years of employment. Any loss of certification may result in an appropriate reduction in pay and classification or may affect employment status, at the discretion of the County Manager.