County Administrator
County of Hood River, OR
Full compensation package up to $197,000 DOE (Updated Salary & Benefits)
Located on the northern Oregon border, just 60 miles east of Portland, Hood River County, (pop. 25,000), is named for the Hood River, a tributary of the Columbia River. The stunning snowcapped Mount Hood and the Columbia River Gorge provide a famous backdrop, making it one of the most visually attractive areas in the Northwest. Residents and visitors are drawn to the year-round outdoor recreation, dramatic vistas, excellent school system, historic landmarks, fantastic food, wine and beer, and the warm, friendly people. The Hood River Valley is a top producer of apples, pears, and cherries, and this agricultural richness combined with the county's scenic setting has made it a famous destination for tourists to drive or bike the famous Fruit Loop, a 35-mile tour featuring family farms, fruit stands, wineries, and other local attractions. The area is also a tourist hotspot for its world-renowned strong, warm summer winds that have allowed Hood River County to enjoy the title of windsurfing capital of the world. The largest city and the county seat is Hood River, with a population of just under 8,400.
Hood River County departments include: Health, Forestry (which includes Tree Farm, Timber Sales, Forest Management, and Recreation Trails), Public Works (which includes Engineering, Road Maintenance, Road Permits, Parks & Buildings, and County Surveyor), Community Development, Elections, Records & Assessment, Prevention Department, Budget & Finance, Sheriff’s Office, 911 Dispatch, District Attorney’s Office, Justice Court, Juvenile Department, Parole & Probation, Human Resources, and Administration. The county maintains an average employment of 150 FTEs. The 2022-2023 General Fund Balance stands at $47.6 million and includes $3.3 million in timber revenue and a five-year law enforcement operating levy that expires in June 2025.
Working under the Board of Commissioners, the County Administrator manages the administrative activities of the county, provides public services to the citizens of the county, ensures compliance with all federal, state, and local laws and recommends policies to the Board regarding county operations. Administrative activities include managing nine department directors and coordinating with three other elected officials who manage county departments.
Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor’s degree in public or business administration, or related field is required, along with a minimum of five (5) years of experience in active supervision of individuals, and five (5) years of experience in a similar role. A master’s degree in a related field is preferred. Any combination of experience and education which provides the applicant with the level of required knowledge and abilities may be considered.
For a complete position profile, full job description and to apply online, visit Prothman at https://www.prothman.com/ and click on "Open Recruitments". For questions, call 206-368-0050. Hood River County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. First review of applications: September 10, 2023 (open until filled).