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Town Manager Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

Town of Smyrna

Planner I

Smyrna, DE · On-site

$60K/yr

Assistant Town Manager or other supervisor designee Supervisory Responsibility: No Primary Work Location: Public Works, with meetings in and around the Town, including Town Hall, Public Works, Police ...

Town of Smyrna

Planner I

Smyrna, DE · On-site

$60K/hr

Assistant Town Manager or other supervisor designee Supervisory Responsibility: No Primary Work Location: Public Works, with meetings in and around the Town, including Town Hall, Public Works, Police ...

Town of Smyrna

Planner I

Smyrna, DE

$60K/yr

Assistant Town Manager or other supervisor designee Supervisory Responsibility: No Primary Work Location: Public Works, with meetings in and around the Town, including Town Hall, Public Works, Police ...

Atlantic Sands

Front Desk Manager

Rehoboth Beach, DE · On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

C. Our beach town hosts visitors from all over the country, and the world. Many of our award-winning town events have expanded later into the year. About the Role: The Front Desk Manager plays a ...

TAI

Manufacturing Manager

New Castle, DE · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Join a leading chemical manufacturing operation as a Manufacturing Manager and take ownership of a ... Some out of town travel may be required from time to time. Compensation and Benefits: * Pay: $100 ...

TAI

Manufacturing Manager

New Castle, DE

$100K - $140K/yr

Join a leading chemical manufacturing operation as a Manufacturing Manager and take ownership of a ... Some out of town travel may be required from time to time. Compensation and Benefits: * Pay: $100 ...

Roquette

Executive Assistant

Wilmington, DE

$82K - $110K/yr

Experience coordinating leadership meetings, town halls, and executive events. * Preferred: Knowledge of expense management systems and travel management platforms. * Preferred: Experience working ...

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Town Manager information

See Delaware salary details

$48K

$119.4K

$192.2K

How much do town manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for town manager in Delaware is $119,388.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $106,600.00 and $141,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some of the main challenges a Town Manager faces when balancing community needs and budget constraints?

Town Managers often face the challenge of prioritizing limited resources while meeting the diverse needs of residents, businesses, and local government departments. Balancing the budget requires careful planning, negotiation, and transparent communication with stakeholders to ensure essential services are maintained without overspending. It also involves seeking alternative funding sources, like grants, and making tough decisions about which projects or services can be delayed or streamlined. Successfully handling these challenges requires strong leadership, fiscal responsibility, and a collaborative approach with the town council and community members.

What are Town Managers?

Town Managers are appointed officials responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a town's government. They implement policies set by the town council, manage municipal staff, prepare budgets, and ensure efficient delivery of public services. Town Managers act as a bridge between elected officials and the community, providing professional management and advice. Their role is crucial in maintaining transparency, accountability, and effective governance within the town.

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

To thrive as a Town Manager, you need a solid background in public administration, budgeting, and municipal operations, typically supported by a relevant degree and experience in local government leadership. Familiarity with government finance software, project management tools, and knowledge of state and local regulations are essential. Outstanding communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills help foster collaboration and address community challenges effectively. These competencies are crucial for ensuring efficient town governance, transparent decision-making, and positive community outcomes.

What Is a Town Manager?

A mayor and town manager have similar duties, but mayors are elected by residents, whereas a town manager is appointed by the local governing body, such as a city council. The town manager oversees the city administration offices and government operations. Job responsibilities include coordinating activities across multiple departments, communicating with the public, and managing internal affairs. Town managers also plan the city’s budget for approval by the city council. Most cities require their town manager to have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in business administration or public administration and extensive experience working in municipal government.

More about Town Manager jobs
What cities in Delaware are hiring for Town Manager jobs? Cities in Delaware with the most Town Manager job openings:
Town Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Town Manager job openings in Delaware as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, 8% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,388 per year, or $57.4 per hour.
Planner I

Planner I

Town of Smyrna

Smyrna, DE • On-site

$60K/yr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Planner I
Pay Grade: 7
Employment Status: Full-Time
FLSA Status: Exempt
Classification: Non Emergency Essential
Department: Planning and Zoning
Reports To: Assistant Town Manager or other supervisor designee
Supervisory Responsibility: No
Primary Work Location: Public Works, with meetings in and around the Town, including Town Hall, Public Works, Police Department, and other locations
1.Position Summary:
The Planner I performs entry-level work related to planning, development, economic development, administration, and comprehensive planning for the Town of Smyrna, including work on the Comprehensive Plan. The position works on items involving research, data collection, analysis, field investigations, report preparation, and support of planning initiatives. This position also handles development projects, zoning reviews, long-range planning activities, and community engagement. Work is performed under close supervision with opportunities for progressively increasing responsibility. The position may be asked to be the advisor to the Town's Planning Commission, Board of Adjustment, and other organizations or duties as requested by the Town Manager, Assistant Town Manager, or another supervisor designee.
2.Essential Responsibilities:
These are not intended to be an exhaustive list of the job
  • Review development applications, site plans, zoning requests, and permits.
  • Conduct field surveys, collect data, and prepare planning reports and maps.
  • Provide research and background materials for planning studies and long-range initiatives.
  • Prepare written and digital correspondence, reports, notices, and presentations.
  • Handle or assist with public meetings, workshops, and community outreach activities involving planning and zoning topics.
  • Maintain accurate planning records, documents, and databases.
  • Respond to inquiries from residents, developers, staff, and other stakeholders while projecting a professional, helpful image.
  • Collaborate with Town staff, vendors, and residents as part of planning and development.
  • Other duties as assigned.

3.Education:
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Associates or Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Geography, Public Administration, Environmental Studies, or a related field preferred.

4.Experience:
  • 2-3 years in a planning and zoning environment.
  • 2-3 years in a municipal environment preferred.

5.Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Knowledge

oPrinciples and practices of urban and regional planning.
oZoning, land-use regulations, and comprehensive planning concepts.
oResearch methods and data interpretation.
oUnderstanding of zoning code and ordinances of the Town of Smyrna.
oFamiliarity with recorded site plans and land subdivision processes.
oFamiliarity with theories, principles, and practices of urban planning and regulations related to planning.
  • Skills

oWritten and verbal communication.
oUse of GIS software, mapping tools, and Microsoft Office.
oOrganization, task management, and attention to detail.
  • Ability

oWork effectively with Town staff, vendors, residents, and officials.
oConvey a professional, helpful image internally and externally.
oAnalyze information, prepare reports, and make rational decisions using logical processes.
oRead and interpret site construction plans.
6.ADA Requirements:
  • Work involves sitting, standing, bending, lifting, and administrative office work for extended periods.
  • Work requires exerting up to 10 pounds occasionally and a negligible amount of force frequently to move objects.
  • Must be able to answer phones, draft correspondence, and verbally communicate to perform daily tasks.
  • Physical motions include climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, walking, pushing, pulling, and grasping.
  • Vocal communication and hearing at normal levels are required.
  • Visual acuity required for data analysis, inspection, operating equipment, and observing surroundings.
  • Exposure to inside/outside environments, extreme cold, hazards, and atmospheric conditions.
  • May be exposed to bloodborne pathogens; personal protective equipment may be required.

7.Additional Requirements
  • Must possess and maintain a valid motor vehicle operator's license.
    • All violations must be reported immediately.
    • A good driving record is required.
  • Must pass background checks including motor vehicle, criminal, and drug screening.
    • Additional checks such as credit may be required.

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