Assistant City Manager
City of Montpelier, VT
Montpelier is the nations smallest state capital - and one of its most resilient. Having navigated a major flood and a global pandemic, the city is entering a new chapter of vitality and opportunity. Were looking for a strategic, collaborative leader to step into a pivotal role alongside the City Manager and help shape Montpeliers future.
This is a rare chance to work at the intersection of housing, economic development, infrastructure modernization, public safety, and good governance - in a community that genuinely cares.
____
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Assistant City Manager serves as a trusted strategic partner to the City Manager and a core member of the citys leadership team. This position provides operational oversight, drives cross-departmental initiatives, supports the Montpelier City Plan and City Councils Strategic Plan, and steps in as Acting City Manager during the Managers absence. The role also leads public engagement, guides policy development, stewards financial resources, and champions a workplace culture of excellence and accountability.
____
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic leadership
Partner with the City Manager on leadership, governance, and operational oversight. Serve on the City Leadership Team and act as City Manager when needed.
Community engagement
Represent the city to partners, the State Legislature, and the public. Build relationships with residents, businesses, and regional agencies. Lead public engagement on Council priorities.
Operational oversight
Foster an accountable, inclusive organizational culture. Champion cross-department collaboration, remove barriers, and mentor direct reports.
Policy development
Develop data-informed proposals for Council consideration. Guide department heads on policy implementation and lead state-level advocacy efforts.
Budget stewardship
Support long- and short-term financial planning. Write grants, manage RFPs, oversee procurement compliance, and advocate for funding approvals.
____
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelors degree in public administration, policy, business, or related field
7+ years in government, public management, or financial administration (equivalency considered)
____
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Masters degree in a related field
Extensive municipal government experience; Vermont knowledge a strong plus
Thorough knowledge of the principals of municipal government administration
Demonstrated ability to handle confidential records, bid proposals, and negotiating positions
Proven success leading diverse teams, managing budgets, and implementing policy matters of significance
____
LEADERSHIP QUALITIES WE VALUE
Integrity, transparency, and respect for subject matter experts
Clear, effective communication with staff, elected officials, and the community
Commitment to equitable service delivery, good governance, and ethical behavior
Professional composure in complex political situations and a lifelong learning mindset
____
BENEFITS
Generous Paid Vacation and Sick Leave plans
12 Paid Holidays
VMERS Pension + 457(b)
Health, dental & vision insurance
Short & long-term disability
City-provided life & AD&D insurance
Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA) with generous city contribution
Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
Limited remote work considered
____
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Montpelier welcomes applicants regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, political affiliation, or citizenship status. We comply with Vermont and federal fair employment law.
View the FULL JOB DESCRIPTION on our Website: https://www.montpelier-vt.org/Jobs.aspx?JobID=76&CommunityJobs=False&Un…
Please email resume and cover letter no later than 6/18/2026 to HR Director, Tanya Chambers, tchambers@montpelier-vt.org