City Administrator

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

City Administrator

City of Carlinville, Illinois

The City of Carlinville (population 5,427) is seeking an experienced and dynamic professional to serve as our first City Administrator. This is an exciting opportunity to establish and lead a new administrative position in the county seat of Macoupin County, working collaboratively with the Mayor, City Council and staff to shape the future of our historic community.

Located in central Illinois, Carlinville is a vibrant community with a rich heritage and bright future. As the county seat of Macoupin County, the city serves as an important regional center offering quality of life amenities including excellent schools, historic downtown, and strong community partnerships. Our residents enjoy small-town charm while benefiting from proximity to Springfield and St. Louis metropolitan areas.

The city operates under a Mayor-Council form of government with a commitment to transparent governance, economic development, and quality municipal services. With a diverse economic base and ongoing revitalization efforts, this is an ideal time for a proven leader to make a lasting impact on our community’s trajectory.

Position:
City Administrator

Department:
Administration

Reports To:

Mayor and City Council

Employment Type:

Full-time, Exempt, At-will

Starting Date:
Flexible – Winter/Spring 2026

As our first City Administrator, you will serve as the chief executive and administrative officer responsible for implementing and coordinating policies established by the Mayor and City Council. This position offers the unique opportunity to establish administrative systems, develop organizational structure, and build a foundation for effective municipal governance.

• Serving as chief administrative officer and liaison between elected officials and city departments
• Coordinating daily operations of all city departments and personnel
• Assist in developing and administering the annual budget and capital improvement program
• Coordinate economic development initiatives and intergovernmental relations
• Preparing comprehensive reports and recommendations for Mayor and City Council
• Coordinating community engagement and maintaining positive public relations

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Municipal Management, or related field required
• Master’s degree in Public Administration or related field preferred

• Minimum 5-7 years of progressively responsible administrative or management experience in municipal government or related public sector environment
• Demonstrated experience in budget development, financial management, and personnel administration
• Economic development and intergovernmental relations experience preferred

• Strong leadership abilities with experience coordinating diverse teams and multiple departments
• Excellent organizational skills with ability to support and coordinate complex projects simultaneously
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, including public speaking abilities
• Proven ability to build consensus and work effectively with elected officials, staff and community stakeholders
• Knowledge of Illinois Municipal Code, local government law, and public administration principles
• ICMA membership eligibility and participation in credentialing program strongly preferred

• Strategic thinking and policy development experience
• Financial analysis and budget management expertise
• Community engagement and relationship building skills
• Innovation in municipal service delivery
• Professional demeanor suitable for representing the city publicly

Salary Range: $75,000 – $95,000 annually, depending on qualifications and experience

• Health, dental, and vision insurance with city contribution
• Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) participation
• Vacation/Sick/Personal Holidays and city-observed holidays
• Professional development budget for conferences and training
• Professional organization dues (ICMA, ILCMA, and…