City Manager

The City of La Junta seeks an open-minded, progressive thinker with exceptional leadership skills to serve as its next City Manager.

Located in southeastern Colorado about 60 miles east of Pueblo, the City of La Junta has developed as a junction for commercial, agricultural, and ranching ventures for more than a hundred years. Before that, La Junta was the junction where the famous Santa Fe Trail branched south to New Mexico, while a lesser route continued west to Pueblo and beyond.

La Junta operates under a council-manager form of government with six Council Members and a Mayor. The City Manager and City Attorney are appointed and/or confirmed by the governing body.

Under general direction of the City Council, the City Manager carries out the City Council's decisions and oversees all City employees. Duties include executing policies, creating and managing the budget, supervising personnel, and handling contract negotiations. The City Manager will oversee the day-to-day operations of the City in an efficient and transparent manner.

The ideal candidate is a highly creative problem solver, with a positive attitude and a strong work ethic. They will be diplomatic when handling divisive issues.

A strong financial background with municipal budget management experience is important. The ideal candidate should be able to manage organizational change, understand economic development, and communicate with business and community leaders. They will be an engaged member of the community and able to work as part of a team.

This position requires a bachelor's degree in public administration, business, or a related field, plus five (5) to seven (7) years of local government experience with progressively increasing responsibilities. A master's degree in a related field is preferred.

Experience in economic development is required, with experience in water rights and water purchases preferred. A familiarity with the Arkansas Valley Conduit Project and infrastructure, specifically the challenges that come with aging infrastructure and economic development, is crucial for this position. A relevant combination of education, training, and experience will be considered.

Per City Charter, the City Manager must live within La Junta city limits during tenure.

The City of La Junta offers a competitive salary range of $125,000-$130,000, depending on qualifications and experience.