County Manager – Strategic Leader for Growth & Service

McDowell County; Candler (NC); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Life insurance

Accrued sick leave

Accrued vacation leave

Job summary

McDowell County in North Carolina seeks an experienced, collaborative County Manager to lead county government, work with the Board of Commissioners, and guide long-term financial strength and community vitality. The successful candidate will manage operations, support employees, and translate policy goals into effective programs and services.

Starting salary is competitive and negotiable based on qualifications.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, public administration, or a closely related field.
• Five to ten years of local government experience managing multiple programs, departments, personnel, and budgets.
• An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered.
• Thorough knowledge of county government operations and applicable local, state, and federal laws.
• Demonstrated leadership, communication, fiscal management, and organizational skills.
• Commitment to ethical leadership, transparency, accountability, and public service.

Responsibilities

• Lead county operations and implement Board-adopted policies and directives.
• Provide sound fiscal oversight, budget development, and responsible stewardship.
• Lead and mentor departments, develop employees, promote accountability.
• Translate Board goals into actionable plans, policies, and initiatives.
• Oversee day-to-day county operations and service delivery improvements.
• Maintain effective relationships with officials, employees, and community stakeholders.
• Ensure ethical governance and public service.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Fiscal management

Organizational skills

Public service

Ethical leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business administration, public administration, or related field

Master’s degree in business administration, public administration, finance, or related field

Job description

McDowell County in North Carolina seeks an experienced, collaborative County Manager to lead county government, work with the Board of Commissioners, and guide long-term financial strength and community vitality. The successful candidate will manage operations, support employees, and translate policy goals into effective programs and services.

Starting salary is competitive and negotiable based on qualifications.