Assistant City Administrator

Assistant City Administrator

Under the general direction of the City Administrator, coordinates activities of the City; develops and administers policies, programs and projects; plans, organizes and directs the operations and activities of assigned departments and staff; supports strategic planning and operational improvement initiatives; and generally, assists the City Administrator in the conduct of the City's operations and performs related work as directed. May serve as the acting City Administrator in his/her absence.

Salary range is $140,000-$160,000 DOQ. Application deadline is August 12, 2026.

Examples Of Duties

Supports the City Administrator in the development and implementation of City goals, objectives, policies, and strategic initiatives.

Assists the City Administrator in day-to-day operations and the coordination and administration of City-wide operations, programs, and departmental activities to ensure effective service delivery.

Promotes and sustains a positive workplace culture by modeling servant leadership, encouraging collaboration and communication, and fostering an environment where individuals feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed.

Serves as a liaison between City staff, the City Administrator, Mayor, and City Council by gathering information, preparing reports, responding to inquiries, and assisting with City Council agenda preparation and follow-up on Council actions.

Coordinates assigned projects and operational initiatives with departments and other stakeholders; monitors timelines and outcomes; and recommends operational improvements and efficiencies.

Works closely with department directors and management staff to proactively identify operational challenges and related solutions, enhance interdepartmental and interagency coordination, and implement organizational priorities.

Oversees assigned department directors, managers, and administrative staff through coaching, training, performance management, and professional development initiatives.

Continuously evaluates the effectiveness and efficiency of City programs, services, systems, and procedures; identifies opportunities for improvement; and assists with implementation of operational changes.

Responds to inquiries and concerns from residents, businesses, elected officials, and community organizations regarding City operations and services; assists in resolving sensitive or complex issues.

Represents the City Administrator and the City at meetings, events, boards, commissions, civic organizations, and intergovernmental functions as assigned.

Assists with strategic planning, policy analysis, legislative review, grant administration, and short-term and long-range planning initiatives affecting the City.

Researches and monitors federal, state, and local legislation and regulatory changes impacting municipal operations and provides recommendations regarding compliance and implementation.

Attends City Council meetings to provide information regarding proposed programs and as an informational resource.

Prepares reports, presentations, correspondence, and recommendations for the City Administrator, Mayor, and City Council and other boards and commissions as required.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in business administration, public administration or a related field from an accredited college or university. Master's degree preferred.

Seven (7) to ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in municipal government administration, public sector management, or executive-level leader in a nonprofit or private sector organization, including a minimum of five (5) years of supervisory experience, or an equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the required work.

Must possess a valid driver's license and maintain throughout duration of employment.

Must pass a background check as prescribed by the City of Davenport.

Must live in the City of Davenport within prescribed time period.

Knowledge and Skills

Comprehensive Knowledge in:

• Principles and practices of municipal government administration and organization.
• The role and function of a Mayor and City Council in Iowa municipal government.
• Public administration practices, strategic planning, and organizational management.
• Personnel management, supervision, training, and performance evaluation.
• Applicable Federal, State, and local laws, codes, ordinances, and regulations.
• Intergovernmental relations and public sector operations.

Strong knowledge in:

• Municipal budgeting, financial administration, and resource allocation.
• Public sector labor relations and management practices.

Comprehensive Skill in:

• Assisting in the management and coordination of municipal operations and programs.
• Analyzing administrative, operational, and organizational issues and developing effective and proactive solutions.
• Building and maintaining cooperative working relationships, fostering collaboration, and communicating effectively with the City Administrator, elected officials at the local, state and federal level, department directors, City employees, business and community groups and stakeholders, media representatives, and the public.
• Maintaining absolute confidentiality of sensitive information and situations encountered.
• Demonstrating leadership qualities and employing integrity, ingenuity, and inventiveness in the performance of assigned tasks.
• Preparing clear, concise reports, presentations, and recommendations.
• Managing multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines simultaneously.
• Interpreting and applying policies, procedures, laws, and regulations.
• Exercising sound judgment, discretion, and professionalism in sensitive situations.
• Supervising, motivating, and evaluating staff effectively.
• Facilitating consensus and resolving conflicts through discussion, negotiation, and collaboration.
• Utilizing technology in daily work.