City Manager

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Work Tasks

CITY MANAGERS are appointed by elected officials to administer the day-to-day operations of a city. They hire employees, and organize and direct them to implement programs and deliver public services. They work with elected officials and citizens to plan for the future growth of the city. They discuss current problems, such as traffic congestion, crime, urban renewal, etc. They are also concerned with functions such as tax collection, law enforcement, and public works. They prepare the annual budget, and submit it to elected officials for approval. They prepare reports, correspond by mail and telephone, and perform many other duties required to meet community needs.

Salary, Size & Growth

• $193,500 average per year ($93.00 per hour)
• A large occupation (273,500 workers in 2010)
• Expected to decline (0.1% per year)

Entry Requirements

More and more local governments require CITY MANAGERS to have a master's degree in public administration or business, and courses in public financial management and legal issues in public administration. A bachelor's degree in political science, public administration, or business may qualify for some local government management positions, an advanced degree will increase opportunities. Many local governments offer internship programs that provide students or recent graduates with the chance to gain practical experience.