Salary: $280,000.00 - $330,000.00 Annually
Location : Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 2026-014
Department: City Administration
Opening Date: 09/12/2026

Description
City Administrator
City of Carmel-by-the-Sea
Annual Salary: $280,000 - $330,000 DOE/DOQ

The City of Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, is seeking an accomplished local government leader to serve as its next City Administrator-an exceptional opportunity to lead one of California's most iconic and distinctive coastal communities. The City Administrator oversees the City's approximately $42 million budget and total staff of 87. They will have an exciting opportunity to turn the Council's vision into action-strengthening the organization, elevating customer service, and moving forward major capital and infrastructure investments that will shape Carmel-by-the-Sea's future. This leader will embrace what's next while fiercely protecting what makes Carmel special-its historic charm, unmistakable character, and extraordinary quality of life.

The ideal candidate is a dynamic and seasoned municipal leader who knows how to bring out the best in people, build an exceptional organization, and navigate the complexities of city government with confidence and sound judgment. Financially savvy, operationally strong, and a natural relationship builder, they will be visible, approachable, and genuinely engaged-someone who listens, communicates openly, builds trust, and enjoys connecting with staff, the Council, and the community.

SALARY AND BENEFITS
Annual Salary: $280,000 - $330,000 DOE/DOQ, PLUS an attractive benefits package.

HOW TO APPLY:
For first consideration, apply by October 12

SAVE THE DATES
Selected candidates must be available for both dates

• First round of interviews will be virtual interviews and will take place on November 6.
• Finalists will move forward to round two in-person interviews on November 16.

QUESTIONS?
Please contact your recruiter, Wendi Brown, with any questions:

• 541-664-0376 direct
• 866-929-WBCP (9227) toll free

At-Will Benefits:

• Insurance: Participation in CalPERS medical plans; City-paid basic Dental and Vision coverage for employee and dependents; City-paid LTD, life and accidental death & dismemberment insurance coverage. City covers 85% of the medical plan premium cost for employee and dependents.
• Retirement: Covered by the CalPERS retirement system based on eligibility and enrollment history.
• Deferred Compensation Plan: City contributes $100.00 monthly on behalf of employees (currently through CalPERS/Voya).
• Vacation Leave Accrual: 1- 4 years of service = 80 hours per year; 5 -10 years of service = 120 hours per year; 11 - 14 years of service = 160 hours per year; 15 years of service and over = 176 hours per year.
• Management Leave: 96 hours per fiscal year that is use or lose.
• Sick Leave Accrual: 8 hours per month
• Holidays: 12 paid holidays per year
• And more!