Deputy City Manager

GMP Consultants; Ridgefield (WA); On-site; USD 154,000 - 215,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Ridgefield is seeking a Deputy City Manager to serve as the primary assistant to the City Manager, directing Administration, HR, IT, and records management, and leading strategic planning and budgeting efforts.

Reporting to the City Manager, you will oversee the Administration Department, supervise a small team, and may serve as acting City Manager as required; first review September 13, 2026.

Qualifications

• Experience in local government administration and public sector leadership.
• Strong budgeting and financial planning skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead Administration Department including HR, IT, and records management.
• Oversee budgeting, strategic planning, and organizational development.
• Act as City Manager when required and coordinate with City Council.

Job description

Organization: City of Ridgefield

Position Title: Deputy City Manager

Address: 230 Pioneer Street, Ridgefield, WA 98642

First Review: September 13, 2026

Salary Range: $153,823 - $214,818

The City of Ridgefield is seeking a Deputy City Manager for this fast-growing community located 14 miles north of Portland and 10 miles north of Vancouver, Washington. Ridgefield's location provides convenient access to the Portland metropolitan area, Portland International Airport, and major employment centers throughout southwest Washington and northwest Oregon, making Ridgefield an increasingly popular place to live for those seeking a quieter lifestyle within easy reach of urban amenities.

THE CITY OF RIDGEFIELD

The City of Ridgefield is a full-service city serving a population of 16,820 across 7 square miles in Clark County. The City operates with a 2026 annual budget of $81 million and a team of approximately 90 employees across five departments: Administration, Community Development, Finance, Police, and Public Works. The City operates under the council-manager form of government, with a seven-member City Council elected at large. City Manager Steve Stuart has served in the position since 2014.

THE DEPUTY CITY MANAGER

Reporting to the City Manager, the Deputy City Manager serves as the primary assistant to the City Manager in the administration and direction of City operations and activities. The Deputy City Manager manages the Administration Department, including the City Clerk’s Office, human resources and payroll, labor relations, information technology coordination, records management, event planning, and community outreach and engagement. Responsibilities also include strategic planning, budgeting, organizational development, and serving as acting City Manager as required. Direct reports include the City Clerk, Human Resources Manager, Community Events Lead, and Public Relations & Events Coordinator.

WHY APPLY

This is an excellent opportunity to join a collaborative staff in one of Washington’s fastest-growing cities. The current Deputy City Manager is retiring after a long career in local government. The Deputy City Manager oversees the administration team, including human resources, IT support, City Clerk functions, and external communications. Ridgefield is ideally situated near the Portland - Vancouver metropolitan area and is home to the 5,200-acre Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. The next Deputy City Manager will benefit from dedicated staff and a supportive, collaborative executive team.

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

More Information: GMP Consultants is assisting the City of Ridgefield with this search. Learn more at gmphr.com. The City of Ridgefield is an Equal Opportunity Employer. First Review is September 13, 2026.