City Manager – Rochelle, Illinois

The City of Rochelle, Illinois, is seeking a proven municipal leader who is trustworthy, approachable, accountable, and open-minded to serve as its next City Manager. This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a well-positioned organization in a community that values collaboration, professionalism, and forward-thinking leadership.

Why Rochelle?

Rochelle is a thriving Midwestern city with a population of 9,411, located just 80 miles west of Chicago. The community offers a welcoming small-town atmosphere paired with big-city connectivity. Its charming downtown, engaged residents, and vibrant calendar of community events reflect a strong sense of pride, collaboration, and civic engagement.

Historically a hub for rail and highway transportation, Rochelle continues to be strategically positioned for business and economic growth. Located at the intersection of Interstate 39 and Interstate 88, the City is within a one-day truck drive of markets serving more than 80 million Americans. Rochelle is also home to Union Pacific’s largest intermodal facility and features four interstate interchanges within four miles of the city limits.

Rochelle’s advanced, city-owned infrastructure includes broadband service, a short-line railroad, municipal landfill, airport, solar field, colocation space, and a diesel generation plant. Robust utility systems with abundant water and wastewater capacity ensure reliable, efficient services for businesses and residents. Community amenities such as an 18-hole golf course further enhance quality of life.

About the Organization:

Rochelle operates as a non-home rule municipality under the Council-Manager form of government, adopted by public referendum in 1994. The City Council is composed of the Mayor and six Council Members who establish policies and enact ordinances. These policies are implemented by the City Manager, the City’s chief administrative officer.

Council Members, including the Mayor, are elected at large to staggered four-year terms. The first ordinance establishing the City Manager position was adopted in 1995, ensuring the professional administration of all municipal affairs in accordance with Illinois law.

The City operates with an annual budget of approximately $120 million and demonstrates a strong commitment to sound financial management. Rochelle has received the Government Finance Officers Association’s (GFOA) Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the past six consecutive years and maintains a strong AA-bond rating.

The City Manager’s Office works collaboratively with the City Council, department leadership, employees, community organizations including the Flagg-Rochelle Library District, the Flagg-Rochelle Park District, the business community, and residents to deliver high-quality services and programs that respond to the evolving needs of the community.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, political science, law, engineering, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred)
Minimum of five to seven years of executive-level local government management experience as a City Manager/Administrator or Assistant City Manager/Administrator (experience in a larger city preferred)
Demonstrated expertise in strategic planning, capital planning, budgeting, and organizational leadership
Experience with Public Works and Municipal Utilities is preferred
Residency within the City of Rochelle is required within six months of appointment

Responsibilities:

Serve as the chief administrative officer of the City
Work collaboratively with the City Council, staff, community organizations, local businesses, and residents
Ensure the delivery of high-quality municipal services and programs that meet the needs of the community
Provide professional leadership, operational oversight, and strategic direction for the organization
This role provides executive oversight of a diverse leadership team comprised of 12 direct reports, supporting effective coordination and accountability across the organization.

Compensation and Benefits:

The salary range for this position is $185,000 to $195,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience. The City of Rochelle offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, vision, dental, life, optional 457b, robust EAP, wellness programs, retirement benefits, paid leave, and professional development support.

Ready to Lead a Talented Team Serving a Vibrant Community?

Apply by Monday, February 16, 2026.

Finalists will be subject to background checks, a DISC Behavior Assessment, and in-depth interviews.

Please submit a cover letter, résumé, and five professional references to:

James Arndt, President

Arndt Municipal Support Inc.

Email: apply@arndtmunicipalsupport.com

Phone: (217) 500-0770

The City of Rochelle is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and welcome leadership from all backgrounds.

Arndt Municipal Support Inc.

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City Manager - Rochelle Illinois