Chief Administrative Officer

Position Details

A Transformational Leadership Opportunity

The City of Auburn is seeking an experienced and strategic leader to serve as its first-ever Chief Administrative Officer
. This newly created position will play a key role in defining and shaping Auburn's administrative operations within its strong mayor form of government
. This position is open until filled and may close at any time. Under the direction of the Mayor, the Chief Administrative Officer will be responsible for leading City operations, ensuring the effective implementation of policies, and fostering collaboration across departments. This position presents an exciting opportunity to drive strategic initiatives, enhance municipal services, and support Auburn's continued growth and success.

Located in the Puget Sound region
, Auburn is a dynamic and growing community of almost 90,000 residents. With a strong local economy, diverse neighborhoods, and a commitment to innovation, Auburn is well‑positioned for continued development. The City is home to a highly skilled leadership team dedicated to providing exceptional public service and advancing Auburn's strategic priorities.

• Operational Leadership:
  Oversee the daily operations of city government, ensuring efficiency, accountability, and alignment with Mayor's vision.
• Strategic Advising:
  Serve as a trusted partner to the Mayor, providing guidance on policy implementation, budgeting, and intergovernmental relations.
• Department Oversight:
  Lead and coordinate the executive leadership team, fostering collaboration and interdepartmental synergy.
• Budget and Policy Management:
  Assist in developing and monitoring the City's budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility and alignment with strategic goals.
• Community and Stakeholder Engagement:
  Represent the City in discussions with community leaders, regional organizations, and state and federal agencies.
• Public Service Excellence:
  Promote a culture of accountability, inclusion, and transparency across City operations.

• A Bachelor's degree in Public Administration or related field.
• At least 10 years of administrative and supervisory experience in municipal or public sector management roles.
• A valid Washington State driver's license without impending loss at the time of appointment (or ability to obtain a WA State license within 30 days).
• A strong knowledge of government operations, policy development, and budget administration.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
• The ability to build relationships with elected officials, city staff, and community stakeholders.

This position will be required to be fingerprinted and complete the CJIS (Criminal Justice Information Services) Security Certification Test to be allowed to have unescorted access while at the Police Department (per Washington State Patrol ACCESS unit).

The salary for the Chief Administrative Officer is $258,444 per year. This position is unaffiliated and exempt. The City of Auburn offers a generous benefits package, including full family medical benefits, a VEBA tax‑free health savings account, contributions to the WA State PERS pension program, and 80 hours of management leave annually, in addition to generous vacation accruals. The total non‑cash compensation package is estimated to be valued at over $85,000.

The Chief Administrative Officer will be assigned a City vehicle or receive a monthly vehicle stipend. If significant relocation is required for the role, assistance with a portion of the expenses may be available.

For more details on all the benefits the City offers, please visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

Team Auburn values a wide range of perspectives and life experiences and believes our strength comes from the diversity of people and ideas. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals who will help us foster a workplace built on respect, collaboration, and service to the community.

The City of Auburn is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer. No person is unlawfully excluded from employment…