Strategic County Administrator

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid family leave

Retirement plan

Job summary

McDowell County, North Carolina, seeks an experienced County Manager to lead county operations, partner with elected officials, and support employees. The role focuses on transparent, ethical leadership, financial stewardship, and delivering high-quality services to roughly 45,000 residents.

The County Manager will translate Board goals into policies, oversee 18 departments, and ensure responsible use of public resources while balancing immediate service needs with long‑term community priorities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required in a related field.
• 5–10 years of local government management experience.
• Demonstrated leadership, communication, fiscal management, and organizational skills.
• Commitment to ethical leadership, transparency and public service.

Responsibilities

• Provide fiscal oversight and guide budget development to maintain prudent resources.
• Lead county departments, mentor employees, and promote accountability.
• Translate Board goals into actionable policies, programs, and services.
• Oversee day-to-day operations and ensure high-quality public service delivery.
• Attend Board meetings and report on finances and administration as required.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Fiscal management

Organizational skills

Education

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

Job description

McDowell County, North Carolina, seeks an experienced County Manager to lead county operations, partner with elected officials, and support employees. The role focuses on transparent, ethical leadership, financial stewardship, and delivering high-quality services to roughly 45,000 residents.

The County Manager will translate Board goals into policies, oversee 18 departments, and ensure responsible use of public resources while balancing immediate service needs with long‑term community priorities.