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Local Government Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

BerryDunn

Public Utilities Staff Consultant

Portland, ME · On-site

$68K - $74K/yr

Overview The Local Government Practice Group is seeking a Staff Consultant to join our Public Utilities Practice. The Consulting Team focuses on serving the organization, information technology, and ...

BerryDunn

Public Utilities Staff Consultant

Portland, ME · On-site

$68K - $74K/yr

Overview The Local Government Practice Group is seeking a Staff Consultant to join our Public Utilities Practice. The Consulting Team focuses on serving the organization, information technology, and ...

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All JobsLocal Government JobsLocal Government Jobs in Portland, ME

Local Government information

See Portland, ME salary details

$46.1K

$113.9K

$158.4K

How much do local government jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for local government in Portland, ME is $113,914.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,100.00 and $134,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are local government jobs?

Local government jobs are positions within city, county, or municipal organizations responsible for providing various public services and managing community resources. These jobs range from administrative roles, such as city clerks and finance officers, to public service positions like police officers, public works employees, and librarians. Local government employees help maintain infrastructure, enforce local laws, and support community development, playing a vital role in the daily functioning of towns and cities. Working in local government often involves serving the public and contributing to the well-being and growth of the local area.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a local government role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Local Government role, you need a solid understanding of public administration, local laws, and policy implementation, typically supported by a relevant degree in public administration, political science, or a similar field. Familiarity with government management software, budgeting tools, and legal compliance systems is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and community engagement skills help build trust and foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders. These competencies are essential for effectively serving the public, ensuring transparent operations, and meeting community needs.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in local government roles?

Professionals in local government often encounter challenges such as balancing the needs of diverse community groups, navigating limited budgets, and adapting to frequent policy changes. They may also face tight deadlines, high public expectations, and the need for close collaboration with other departments, elected officials, and external stakeholders. Successfully managing these challenges requires effective communication, problem-solving abilities, and a strong commitment to public service.

What types of jobs are available in local government?

There are a wide variety of local government jobs available. Regardless of whether you want to get involved in local politics, you can find government jobs that involve any number of tasks. Towns need people to issue permits, handle paperwork, maintain buildings and lawns, and more. There are many departments within the local government that help a town run including parks and recreation, sewage, and city planning. If you are interested in politics, you can find jobs as a secretary or even run for your town’s city council. Regardless of your job preferences, chances are you can find a job that helps out your local community at the same time.

What is the difference between Local Government vs City Planner?

AspectLocal GovernmentCity Planner
Required CredentialsVaries; often includes degrees in public administration, political science, or related fieldsBachelor's or master's in urban planning, geography, or related fields
Work EnvironmentGovernment offices, community centers, public meetingsUrban areas, planning departments, public consultations
Employer & Industry UsageLocal government agencies, municipalitiesCity or regional planning departments, consulting firms
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on governance, policy, and administration at the local levelFocuses on designing and developing urban spaces and land use

While both roles operate within local government structures, Local Government professionals oversee broader administrative functions, policies, and community services. City Planners specialize in land use, urban development, and spatial planning to shape city growth. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations within local government sectors.

More about Local Government jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Government jobs in Portland, ME?

The most popular types of Government jobs in Portland, ME are:

What are popular job titles related to Local Government jobs in Portland, ME?

For Local Government jobs in Portland, ME, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Local Government jobs in Portland, ME look for?

The top searched job categories for Local Government jobs in Portland, ME are:

What cities near Portland, ME are hiring for Local Government jobs?

Cities near Portland, ME with the most Local Government job openings:

Local Government jobs near you
Infographic showing various Local Government job openings in Portland, ME as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,914 per year, or $54.8 per hour.

Summer 2027 Consulting Internship - Organizational Development & Public Development Services

BerryDunn

Portland, ME • On-site

$30/hr

Temporary, Internship

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Overview
The Local Government Practice Group is seeking a Consulting Intern, Community Development and Organizational Development, to join our Team. The Consulting Team focuses on serving the organization, information technology, and management needs of local and state government agencies. We have worked with hundreds of government agencies throughout the United States. We understand the needs of public sector agencies, their fiscal constraints, and the commitment to serving constituents.
As a summer intern with the Local Government Practice Group, you can expect to receive guidance from the supervisor(s), consultant, or principal in charge of an engagement or project within our Community Development Utility Operations Practice and Organizational Development Practice. Work performed will be closely supervised through coaching and training. With guidance from staff members of the Local Government Practice Group, you will become familiar with the firm's systems, operations and relationships. The firm expects you to demonstrate flexibility, have a willingness to seek out advice, and exhibit an ambition for learning. This internship is based in our Portland, Maine office.
We have internship openings with our Local Government Practice Group for:
  • Summer session running from May 25, 2027 to August 6, 2027.

In order to be considered, you must include your unofficial academic transcription with your application.
You Will
  • Develop an understanding of the general consulting process in local government.
  • Assist in performing consulting engagements of all sizes.
  • Assist with project management tasks such as tracking and reporting project progress, conducting research, maintaining project document repository, and reviewing deliverables for quality assurance.
  • Follow appropriate diagnostic, data collection, fact-finding, and data analysis practices.
  • Keep supervisors and others informed of status of assigned projects.
  • Provide ad hoc assessments and briefings in response to client requests.
  • Participate in staff/team meetings and training and work effectively as a team player on multiple client projects.

You Have
  • Currently enrolled as a student in a BA/BS/MS Degree in Political Science, Communications, Business Administration, and/or Computer Science.
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship, now or at any time in the future.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
  • Strong Microsoft Office skills.
  • Demonstrated experience in relationship building, including excellent writing and communication skills.
  • Relevant work experience in government or public administration field is a plus.
  • Willingness and ability to travel.

Compensation Details
The hourly rate for this role is $30 per hour. This rate range represents BerryDunn's good faith and reasonable estimate of the possible compensation at the time of posting. If an applicant possesses experience, education, or other qualifications more than the minimum requirements for this posting, that applicant is encouraged to apply, and a final rate may then be based on those additional qualifications; compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. The hourly rate for the finalist selected for this role will be based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, years of experience, depth of experience, seniority, merit, education, training, amount of travel, and other relevant business considerations.
BerryDunn Benefits & Culture
Our people are what make BerryDunn special, and in return we strive to support our employees and help them thrive. Eligible employees have access to benefits that go beyond what's expected to support their physical, mental, career, social, and financial well-being. Visit our website for a complete list of benefits and a look into our culture: Experience BerryDunn.
We will ensure that individuals are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process or perform essential job functions. Please contact careers@berrydunn.com to request an accommodation.
We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender, gender identity or expression, or veteran status. We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace.
About BerryDunn
BerryDunn is the brand name under which Berry, Dunn, McNeil & Parker, LLC and BDMP Assurance, LLP, independently owned entities, provide services. Since 1974, BerryDunn has helped businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies throughout the US and its territories solve their greatest challenges. The firm's tax, advisory, and consulting services are provided by Berry, Dunn, McNeil & Parker, LLC, and its attest services are provided by BDMP Assurance, LLP, a licensed CPA firm.
BerryDunn is a client-centered, people-first professional services firm with a mission to empower the meaningful growth of our people, clients, and communities. Led by CEO Sarah Belliveau, the firm has been recognized for its efforts in creating a diverse and inclusive workplace culture, and for its focus on learning, development, and well-being. Learn more at berrydunn.com.

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