City of Carlinville, Illinois: City Administrator - Southwestern Illinois College

City of Carlinville, Illinois: City Administrator

Closing on: Dec 31, 2025
Job Field: Business
Job Shift: Full Time
Job Location: Carlinville IL

SEEKING VISIONARY LEADERSHIP FOR A GROWING COMMUNITY
The City of Carlinville (population 5,427) is seeking an experienced and dynamic
professional to serve as our first City Administrator. This is an exciting opportunity to
establish and lead a new administrative position in the county seat of Macoupin County,
working collaboratively with the Mayor, City Council and staff to shape the future of our historic community.

ABOUT CARLINVILLE: Located in central Illinois, Carlinville is a vibrant community with a rich heritage and bright
future. As the county seat of Macoupin County, the city serves as an important regional
center offering quality of life amenities including excellent schools, historic downtown, and
strong community partnerships. Our residents enjoy small-town charm while benefiting
from proximity to Springfield and St. Louis metropolitan areas.
The city operates under a Mayor-Council form of government with a commitment to
transparent governance, economic development, and quality municipal services. With a
diverse economic base and ongoing revitalization efforts, this is an ideal time for a proven
leader to make a lasting impact on our community’s trajectory.

THE OPPORTUNITY:

Position: City Administrator
Department: Administration
Reports To: Mayor and City Council
Employment Type: Full-time, Exempt, At-will
Starting Date: Flexible – Winter/Spring 2026


As our first City Administrator, you will serve as the chief executive and administrative officer
responsible for implementing and coordinating policies established by the Mayor and City
Council. This position offers the unique opportunity to establish administrative systems,
develop organizational structure, and build a foundation for effective municipal governance.


Key Responsibilities Include:

  • Serving as chief administrative officer and liaison between elected officials and city
    departments
  • Coordinating daily operations of all city departments and personnel
  • Assist in developing and administering the annual budget and capital improvement
    program
  • Coordinate economic development initiatives and intergovernmental relations
  • Preparing comprehensive reports and recommendations for Mayor and City Council

Coordinating community engagement and maintaining positive public relations


WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR:
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Municipal Management, or related field required
Master’s degree in Public Administration or related field preferred


Experience:

  • Minimum 5-7 years of progressively responsible administrative or management
    experience in municipal government or related public sector environment
  • Demonstrated experience in budget development, financial management, and
    personnel administration
  • Economic development and intergovernmental relations experience preferred
    Professional Qualifications:
  • Strong leadership abilities with experience coordinating diverse teams and multiple
    departments
  • Excellent organizational skills with ability to support and coordinate complex
    projects simultaneously
  • Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, including public speaking
    abilities
  • Proven ability to build consensus and work effectively with elected officials, staff and
    community stakeholders
  • Knowledge of Illinois Municipal Code, local government law, and public
    administration principles
  • ICMA membership eligibility and participation in credentialing program strongly
    preferred
    Key Competencies:
  • Strategic thinking and policy development experience
  • Financial analysis and budget management expertise
  • Community engagement and relationship building skills
  • Innovation in municipal service delivery
  • Professional demeanor suitable for representing the city publicly
    COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
    Salary Range: $75,000 – $95,000 annually, depending on qualifications and experience
    Comprehensive Benefits Package:
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance with city contribution
  • Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) participation
  • Vacation/Sick/Personal Holidays and city-observed holidays
  • Professional development budget for conferences and training
  • Professional organization dues (ICMA, ILCMA, and related associations)
  • Cell phone allowance
  • Vehicle allowance or city vehicle provision

  • IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE:
    We are seeking a collaborative leader who can work effectively with our Mayor, City Council,
    department heads, staff and community stakeholders. The ideal candidate will
    demonstrate:
    Proven Leadership: Experience successfully coordinating municipal operations with ability
    to motivate teams and achieve results
    Strategic Vision: Capability to develop long-term plans while supporting day-to-day
    operations effectively
    Community Focus: Passion for public service with a commitment to improving quality of
    life for residents
    Financial Acumen: Strong background in municipal finance, budget development, and
    fiscal responsibility
    Communication Excellence: Ability to clearly explain complex issues and build trust with
    diverse audiences
    Innovation Mindset: Creativity in problem-solving and improving municipal service delivery
    Collaborative Approach: Skill in building consensus and maintaining positive working relationships
    relationships among elected officials, staff, and community Members.

APPLICATION PROCESS:
Application Deadline: Open until filled


Required Materials:

  • Completed City of Carlinville employment application
  • Comprehensive resume highlighting relevant municipal experience
  • Cover letter addressing qualifications and interest in serving Carlinville
  • Three professional references with current contact information
  • Copy of relevant degrees and certifications
  • Writing Sample
    Selection Process:
  • Initial applications review
  • Preliminary interviews with top candidates
  • Final interviews with Mayor and City Council
  • Reference and background checks
  • Final selection and employment offer

How to Apply:
Submit application materials to:
Frank Miles MPA
Frank Miles Consulting
Email: Fmiles1553@gmail.com
618-406-9585
Doug Downey, Mayor
City of Carlinville
550 North Broad St.
Carlinville, IL 62626
Email: DDowney@cityofcarlinville.com
Applications may be submitted electronically or by mail. For questions about the position or
application process, please contact Frank Miles MPA at 618-406-9585.


EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT
The City of Carlinville is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating an inclusive
environment where all employees can thrive. We welcome applications from qualified
candidates regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity,
national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics.
Illinois Pay Transparency Disclosure: This position offers a salary range of $75,000 – $95,000
annually with comprehensive benefits as described above, determined based on
qualifications and experience.


NEXT STEPS:
This represents an exceptional opportunity for an experienced municipal professional to
make a significant impact in a growing community. Join us in building the future of Carlinville
while advancing your career in an environment that values innovation, collaboration, and
public service excellence.
Visit our website: www.cityofcarlinville.com
Learn more about our community: www.carlinville.com
The City of Carlinville reserves the right to modify this announcement or close the
recruitment at any time. This position is contingent upon budgetary approval and may be
subject to a pre-employment background check, medical examination, and drug screening.

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