City Administrator
About the Position
The City of South Milwaukee seeks a City Administrator with strong leadership, communication, and financial management skills, along with a proven ability to advance economic and community development initiatives that support South Milwaukee’s continued growth and vitality.
Learn more about the City Administrator position:
City Administrator
The City Administrator serves as the City of South Milwaukee’s Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), providing executive leadership for day-to-day operations and serving as a strategic partner to the Mayor and Common Council. The Administrator oversees department heads, implements policy direction, manages personnel and labor relations, and prepares and administers the annual operating budget. The role ensures effective service delivery, compliance with local ordinances and state statutes, and strong relationships with elected officials, staff, and the community.
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Advises the Mayor and Common Council and implements policy direction.
Prepares and administers the annual operating and capital budgets.
Oversees department managers, personnel administration, and labor relations.
Ensures high-quality municipal services and continuous improvement.
Monitors legislation and represents the City in intergovernmental matters.
Pursues grants and external resources supporting key priorities.
Maintains effective communication with residents and stakeholders.
Represents the City at community and regional meetings.
About the Community
The City of South Milwaukee (population 20,800) is a vibrant, historic lakeshore community located in Milwaukee County, just minutes south of downtown Milwaukee. Situated along the shores of Lake Michigan, South Milwaukee offers the unique combination of scenic natural assets, a strong industrial and manufacturing legacy, and convenient access to the economic, cultural, and recreational opportunities of the greater Milwaukee metropolitan area.
South Milwaukee is known for its strong sense of community pride, walkable neighborhoods, the Bucyrus Commons downtown square, and historic downtown. The City is home to Grant Park—one of Milwaukee County’s most iconic parks—featuring bluffs overlooking Lake Michigan, miles of trails, beaches, golf, and year-round recreational amenities. Residents enjoy access to extensive outdoor recreation, a revitalizing downtown corridor, and a growing mix of dining, arts, and community events.
Housing options range from well-established historic neighborhoods to newer developments that continue to enhance the City’s appeal to families, professionals, and retirees alike. The South Milwaukee School District is recognized for its commitment to student achievement, innovative programming, and strong partnerships with the community. South Milwaukee’s economy reflects a diverse mix of manufacturing, industrial employers, small businesses, and service providers, supported by strategic investments in infrastructure, redevelopment, and economic development initiatives. With a proud past and a forward-looking vision, South Milwaukee continues to position itself as a welcoming, resilient, and opportunity-rich community.
Learn more at southmilwaukee.gov
The Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate will be highly engaged in the community—building strong relationships with residents, businesses, and community partners. The City Administrator will participate in local events and organizations, and serve as a visible, approachable leader committed to the city’s long-term success.
Hiring Range: $155,000-$175,000 (DOQ)
Excellent benefits package includes:
Exceptional insurance, benefits and time-off program.
Enrollment in Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) Pension.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field is required.
A master’s degree is preferred.
Minimum of five years of progressively responsible leadership experience in municipal
government or a closely related public sector environment.
Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience that demonstrate the ability to successfully perform the duties of the position may be considered.
Learn more about the City Administrator position:
Economic and Community Development Opportunities
South Milwaukee is experiencing positive momentum, with opportunities for targeted redevelopment, downtown reinvestment, and strategic growth that build on the City’s strong industrial foundation and desirable lakeshore location. Ongoing investment in infrastructure, housing, and community amenities continues to enhance quality of life while supporting long-term economic vitality.
The Bucyrus Campus remains a hub for industry, including Caterpillar and redevelopment opportunities. The City Administrator will play a central leadership role in aligning economic development initiatives, land use planning, and public investments—while strengthening partnerships with major employers and supporting business retention and redevelopment.
The next City Administrator will have the opportunity to guide sustainable growth, foster public–private collaboration, and help position South Milwaukee for long-term economic success and community prosperity.
Apply now!
Innovative Public Advisors (IPA) is conducting the executive recruitment process for this position.
Applications are now being accepted until the position is filled, with a first review no later than February 27, 2026.
Please upload or email your cover letter, resume, salary history, and professional references to Jay Shambeau at jay@public-advisors.com.
Please direct questions to Jay at 262-355-6102.
Thank you for your interest!