Municipal Manager

Job Description

The town of Rockingham and the Village of Bellows Falls seek an experienced, collaborative, and community‑focused Municipal Manager to lead a historic, culturally vibrant, and civically engaged community in southeastern Vermont. With a combined population of approximately 4,800, Rockingham/Bellows Falls offers a unique blend of small‑town character, strong arts and cultural assets, and excellent transportation access including Amtrak, I‑91, and regional transit.

Rockingham/Bellows Falls is known for its revitalized downtown, thriving arts scene, historic architecture, and strong volunteer spirit. Recent accomplishments include consolidation of the municipal Fire & Rescue Department, major infrastructure improvements, and successful grant‑funded development projects. The community values transparency, collaboration, and long‑term thinking.

Position

The Town Manager oversees all municipal operations, implements board policies, manages staff and budgets, and works for two governing boards: the Rockingham Selectboard and the Bellows Falls Village Trustees. They also work collaboratively with the Saxtons River Village Trustees. The Manager must be an effective communicator, a steady leader, and a skilled administrator capable of managing complex projects and fostering a positive organizational culture. The ideal candidate is approachable, humble, organized, and community‑minded, with a commitment to transparency, responsiveness, and long‑term planning.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and direction to municipal departments with approximately 100 employees
• Manage $8.8 Million in budgets, financial planning, and capital projects
• Support development initiatives and grant administration
• Maintain strong communication with boards, staff, and the public
• Oversee labor relations and personnel management
• Advance ongoing infrastructure and development projects
• Ensure efficient, transparent, and responsive municipal operations

Qualifications

• Three years experience in municipal administration, five plus years preferred
• Strong skills in finance, budgeting, labor relations, and project management
• Experience with grant writing and administration
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and conflict‑resolution abilities
• Ability to lead staff, build morale, and foster teamwork
• Understanding of infrastructure systems (highway, water, sewer)
• Bachelor’s degree required, MPA or comparable degree preferred

Compensation

Salary range is $130,000 to $140,000 annually commensurate with qualifications. The Town/Village provides a full benefits package. For informational brochure, see: www.rockinghamvt.org