Description
The Position
Medford is helping shape the future of Southern Oregon, and we are seeking a City Manager to help lead that effort.
As the largest city in Southern Oregon and the center of a region of more than half a million people, Medford is a community that balances practical achievement with ambitious goals. Our residents have a strong tradition of civic engagement, thoughtful planning, and collaborative problem-solving. We value healthy dialogue, respect diverse perspectives, and work together to move important initiatives forward.
Today, Medford stands at a pivotal moment. Significant opportunities are underway that will influence our community for decades to come. Private and public partners are advancing Creekside Quarter, a transformational downtown redevelopment along Bear Creek. The City is pursuing development of a conference center, evaluating a potential professional baseball stadium, supporting housing expansion, and working with state and regional partners to explore opportunities for medical education in Southern Oregon.
Reporting directly to the Mayor and City Council, the City Manager serves as the City's Chief Executive Officer and is responsible for leading all municipal operations. The City Manager translates Council priorities into action, oversees the implementation of strategic initiatives, and ensures the efficient delivery of services to more than 90,000 residents. The City Manager leads an executive team that includes a Deputy City Manager, Chief Financial Officer, City Attorney, and Human Resources Director, and nine other department directors. This position is responsible for budget development and administration, organizational performance, economic development initiatives, intergovernmental relations, legislative advocacy, and fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, integrity, and service excellence.
The City of Medford seeks an experienced, strategic, and collaborative local government leader who builds strong relationships, inspires confidence, and guides a growing organization through a period of significant opportunity and investment.
The successful candidate brings a proven record of executive leadership in local government and demonstrated experience partnering with elected officials. They effectively balance long-term strategic priorities with the operational responsibilities of leading a complex municipal organization while maintaining a strong focus on service excellence, organizational culture, and fiscal stewardship.
Compensation and Benefits
The City Council will negotiate a competitive employment agreement with the selected candidate. The anticipated salary range is $250,000 – $275,000, depending on qualifications and experience.
In addition to salary, the City offers a comprehensive executive benefits package, including participation in the Oregon Public Employees Retirement System (PERS), health and wellness benefits, paid leave, and other benefits customarily provided to executive-level employees. Relocation assistance and other terms of employment may be negotiated with the successful candidate. Candidates can learn more about the comprehensive benefits package here.
How to Apply
Applications will be accepted electronically by Raftelis at raftelis.com. Applicants complete a brief online form and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. The position will be open until filled, with a first review of applications beginning July 13, 2026.
Requirements
Qualifications
At least 10 years of progressively responsible leadership experience in local government is required, including a minimum of five years supervising professional-level staff. Prior experience serving as a City Manager, Deputy City Manager, or Assistant City Manager is highly desirable. Candidates should possess substantial experience in municipal budgeting and financial management, along with the ability to evaluate competing priorities, make sound decisions, and effectively communicate those decisions to elected officials, employees, community stakeholders, and residents. Experience in economic development, downtown revitalization, housing initiatives, urban renewal, infrastructure planning, and intergovernmental relations will be highly valued.
A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in public administration, business administration, planning, economic development, or a related field is required. A master's degree in public administration, business administration, or a closely related discipline is preferred.
The City recognizes that leadership experience may be gained through a variety of pathways and will consider any combination of education, training, and experience that demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to lead the organization successfully.
