The City of Imperial, Neb., in Chase County (pop. 2,000) is seeking an experienced, community-minded professional to serve as its next City Administrator. Imperial is the county seat of Chase County, located in the heart of southwest Nebraska’s agricultural region. The community offers excellent schools, a strong local economy anchored in agriculture, thriving small businesses, active civic organizations, and the quality of life of a close-knit rural city. The City provides a full range of municipal services and is governed by a Mayor and City Council under the laws applicable to Nebraska cities of the second class.
The City Administrator serves as the administrative head of city government, working under the direction of the Mayor and City Council to carry out policy, oversee daily operations, and guide the City’s long-term financial and organizational health. This is a full-time, appointed position and an
outstanding opportunity for a proven leader who wants to make a lasting difference in a growing rural community.
POSITION OVERVIEW
Appointed by the Mayor with the consent of the City Council, the City Administrator is responsible for the efficient and effective administration of all City departments and services under the Council’s direction. The position works closely with elected officials, department heads, City staff, and the public, and requires a combination of financial acumen, operational leadership, sound judgment, and strong communication skills. The Administrator works a minimum of forty (40) hours per week and is expected to attend evening meetings as required.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The City Administrator’s duties are established by the Imperial Municipal Code and include, but are
not limited to, the following:
Operations & Departments – Administer and supervise all City departments and divisions under the Mayor and Council’s direction.
Financial Management – Keep the Mayor and Council fully advised of the City’s financial condition and needs; prepare the annual estimate of expenditures for the appropriation ordinance; and prepare a year-end report on the City’s finances and administrative activities.
Purchasing – Serve as the City’s purchasing agent for supplies, equipment, and materials, and enter into contracts for City work, improvements, and purchases within the limits set by state law for cities of the second class or any lesser limit set by the Council.
Personnel – Analyze the functions and activities of departments and employees; recommend the appointment, dismissal, promotion, demotion, suspension, transfer, or discharge of department heads and employees; and recommend a classification and compensation plan.
Policy & Council Support – Attend all Council meetings and report on City affairs; recommend measures, ordinances, and long-range improvements; and carry out the Mayor’s and Council’s directives and operations.
Property & Risk – Maintain a current inventory of all City property; exercise general supervision over public buildings, streets, and other public property; and keep the City’s insurable property appropriately insured.
Public Relations – Serve as a public-relations officer for City government, investigate and resolve complaints, and cooperate with community organizations that advance the interests of the City and its residents.
Investigations & Oversight – Investigate the affairs of the City, its departments, contracts, and the performance of City obligations, and make recommendations to the Mayor and Council.
Other Duties – Serve in any appointed office or as a department head if needed when appointed by the Mayor and Council, and perform other duties delegated by ordinance, resolution, or the Mayor.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education & Experience. A bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, finance, or a related field is preferred, along with progressively responsible experience in local government, public administration, business management, or a comparable field. An equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge and abilities will be considered. Experience in municipal budgeting, personnel management, and utility or public-works operations is highly desirable.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities. The ideal candidate will demonstrate:
Working knowledge of municipal finance, budgeting, and Nebraska local-government structure and law;
Strong leadership, supervisory, and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple departments and priorities;
Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work effectively with elected officials, staff, and the public;
Sound, impartial judgment and the highest standards of integrity, discretion, and ethical conduct;
Proficiency with standard office technology and financial/administrative software; and
A collaborative, service-oriented approach and a genuine commitment to the community.
Additional Requirements. The successful candidate must take and subscribe the statutory oath of office, may be required to furnish a fidelity/surety bond, and must possess (or be able to obtain) a valid driver’s license. Residency within or near the City may be required or preferred at the Council’s discretion.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
Salary is dependent on qualifications and experience. The City offers a competitive benefits package, which includes, but is not limited to health insurance, retirement, dental, life insurance, vision, disability (all through the applicable plan), paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays, etc. Compensation is fixed by the City Council.
HOW TO APPLY
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, résumé, short biography, and a list of three (3) references by mail to:
City of Imperial – Attn:
Mayor Loeffler
P.O. Box 637
Imperial, NE 69033
Or by Email at: interim@imperial-ne.com & craig.loeffler@outlook.com.
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Applications will be reviewed as received. A complete position description is available from the City office upon request.
The City of Imperial is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The City does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other status protected by law. This posting is a summary and is not a contract of employment; the position is governed by the Imperial Municipal Code and applicable Nebraska law.