City Manager

City of Escanaba, MI

CITY OF ESCANABA JOB OPENING
CITY MANAGER POSITION

The City of Escanaba, Michigan—a vibrant community of 12,680 residents in the scenic Upper Peninsula—is seeking a dynamic and experienced City Manager to serve as its Chief Administrative Officer. This role offers the unique opportunity to lead a 12-square-mile city with a $31 million operating budget, while shaping the future of a community that values innovation, collaboration, and quality of life. Our city operates under a Council-Manager form of government, ensuring efficient administration and responsive leadership. Escanaba proudly manages a variety of municipal utilities, including water, wastewater, and electric services, offering an opportunity to work in a dynamic environment that directly impacts the community’s quality of life.

About the Role:
The City Manager will provide visionary leadership and oversee all city departments, agencies, and offices to ensure efficient, effective, and responsive municipal services. Responsibilities include:
• Leading, mentoring, and motivating staff while organizing workloads and evaluating performance.
• Developing and implementing short- and long-term strategic plans to meet community goals.
• Gathering, analyzing, and presenting data to inform decisions and policy recommendations.
• Coordinating activities across departments and with external agencies to ensure seamless operations.
• Advising the City Council, making presentations to boards, commissions, civic groups, and the public.
• Driving economic development initiatives and cultivating partnerships with regional and community stakeholders.

Who We’re Looking For:
The ideal candidate will bring a combination of knowledge, leadership, and vision to the role, including:
• Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Management, Political Science, Finance, or a related field, plus 5–10 years of relevant experience (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
• Broad understanding of municipal operations with strong communication, collaboration, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Ability to integrate feedback, innovate, and lead initiatives that enhance city services.
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• A proactive approach to staying current with trends in local government management.

Why Escanaba:
Nestled in the heart of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Escanaba offers a high quality of life, natural beauty, and a welcoming community. Residents enjoy access to recreation, cultural events, and a strong sense of community. This is a chance to make a meaningful impact in a city where leadership is valued and innovation is encouraged.

Compensation:
The City offers a competitive salary and benefits package, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

The application period is now open, with a deadline of February 1, 2026. Applicants should submit a resume, application, and letter of interest:
• Email: hr@escanaba.org
• Mail: City of Escanaba, Attn: Human Resource Director, P.O. Box 948, Escanaba, MI
Please review the complete job description before applying at www.escanaba.org/hr. Additional community information is available at www.escanaba.org.

How to Apply

Application Deadline

Applicants should submit a resume, application, and letter of interest to hr@escanaba.org.

Job Details

Salary
$115,000
-
$130,000
Job Function
Chief Administrator (City, County, Town Manager)
Position Type
Full Time

City of Escanaba

Address

410 Ludington St
Escanaba, MI 49829-3924
United States

Population
12,680
Form of Government
Council-Manager

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