Assistant City Manager

ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER

Salary: $125,000 / year

Full-time - Exempt

Open September 4, 2026 - Closes September 18, 2026

Montpelier is the nation's smallest state capital - and one of its most resilient. Having navigated a major flood and a global pandemic, the city is entering a new chapter of vitality and opportunity. We're looking for a strategic, collaborative leader to step into a pivotal role alongside the City Manager and help shape Montpelier's future.

This is a rare chance to work at the intersection of housing, economic development, infrastructure modernization, public safety, and good governance - in a community that genuinely cares.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Assistant City Manager serves as a trusted strategic partner to the City Manager and a core member of the city's leadership team. This position provides operational oversight, drives cross-departmental initiatives, supports the Montpelier City Plan and City Council's Strategic Plan, and steps in as Acting City Manager during the Manager's absence. The role also leads public engagement, guides policy development, stewards financial resources, and champions a workplace culture of excellence and accountability.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic leadership

• Partner with the City Manager on leadership, governance, and operational oversight. Serve on the City Leadership Team and act as City Manager when needed.

Community engagement

• Represent the city to partners, the State Legislature, and the public. Build relationships with residents, businesses, and regional agencies. Lead public engagement on Council priorities.

Operational oversight

• Foster an accountable, inclusive organizational culture. Champion cross-department collaboration, remove barriers, and mentor direct reports.

Policy development

• Develop data-informed proposals for Council consideration. Guide department heads on policy implementation and lead state-level advocacy efforts.

Budget stewardship

• Support long- and short-term financial planning. Write grants, manage RFPs, oversee procurement compliance, and advocate for funding approvals.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in public administration, policy, business, or related field
• 7+ years in government, public management, or financial administration (equivalency considered)

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Master's degree in a related field
• Extensive municipal government experience; Vermont knowledge a strong plus
• Thorough knowledge of the principals of municipal government administration
• Demonstrated ability to handle confidential records, bid proposals, and negotiating positions
• Proven success leading diverse teams, managing budgets, and implementing policy matters of significance

LEADERSHIP QUALITIES WE VALUE

• Integrity, transparency, and respect for subject matter experts
• Clear, effective communication with staff, elected officials, and the community
• Commitment to equitable service delivery, good governance, and ethical behavior
• Professional composure in complex political situations and a lifelong learning mindset

BENEFITS

• Generous Paid Vacation and Sick Leave plans
• 12 Paid Holidays
• VMERS Pension + 457(b)
• Health, dental & vision insurance
• Short & long-term disability
• City-provided life & AD&D insurance
• Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) with generous city contribution
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Limited remote work considered

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Montpelier welcomes applicants regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, political affiliation, or citizenship status. We comply with Vermont and federal fair employment law.

Please email resume and cover letter no later than 9/25/2026 to HR Director, Tanya Chambers, View email address on click.appcast.io