City Manager: Growth, Partnership & Community Impact

ICMA; Burien (WA); Hybrid; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Burien in Washington seeks a City Manager to lead a diverse, well-connected city immediately south of Seattle and near Sea-Tac Airport. The candidate will oversee daily administration, work with elected officials to set policy, mentor staff, and drive community-focused initiatives in a collaborative environment.

The position requires strong communication, strategic thinking, and a commitment to staff development as the city advances its downtown, shoreline amenities, and regional

Job description

The City of Burien, Washington, is seeking a City Manager for this diverse and well-connected city located immediately south of Seattle and adjacent to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Situated along 6 miles of Puget Sound shoreline, Burien offers the accessibility of a major metropolitan area while maintaining the feel of an established neighborhood community.

THE CITY OF BURIEN

The City serves a population of 53,470 across 13.2 square miles in King County with a biennial budget of $75.5 million and a team of 111 FTEs. City functions include Administrative Services, Community Development, Economic Development, Finance, Human Services, Legal, Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services, and Public Works. The City’s workforce includes one bargaining unit.

Incorporated in 1993, the City of Burien operates under the Council-Manager form of government. The seven-member City Council is elected at large to four-year, staggered terms and selects a Mayor from among its members to serve a two-year term. The City Manager is appointed by the Council and is responsible for the daily administration of the City.

WHY APPLY

This is an excellent opportunity to lead a young King County city with a strategic location and significant opportunities for continued growth. Located immediately south of Seattle and adjacent to Sea-Tac Airport, Burien offers a walkable downtown, a state-certified Creative District, miles of shoreline, and a diverse and welcoming community.

This is a city where you can make an impact. The City has a relatively new leadership team eager to grow under a City Manager who values mentorship and staff development. The City also benefits from a culture of collaboration, both internally and with community and regional partners. They seek a strong communicator who enjoys working with elected officials to set policy and direction, values staff development, and is energized by an active community invested in the city’s future. The Interim City Manager is assisting the City through this recruitment process and will not be a candidate for the position.

More Information:GMP Consultantsis assisting the City of Burien with this search. Learn more at gmphr.com. The City of Burien is an Equal Opportunity Employer. First Review is October 11, 2026.

How to Apply

Post Date Sep 14, 2026

View the full position profile, job description, and benefits at gmphr.com.

Chief Administrator (City, County, Town Manager)

Position Type

Full Time

City of Burien

Address

400 Sw 152Nd St Ste 300
Burien , WA 98166-1917
United States