Position Announcement

City Administrator

Washburn, WI (Population 2,057)

The City of Washburn is seeking a City Administrator who is dedicated, innovative, and community-focused to lead this vibrant City. Located in northern Wisconsin’s picturesque Bayfield County, Washburn serves as the County Seat and is situated on the shore of Lake Superior’s Chequamegon Bay. The nearby Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, 1.5 million-acre Chequamegon-Nicolet Forest, and camping, snowmobiling, hiking, and boating opportunities make the Washburn area a year-round outdoor recreational paradise. It is the home to several large companies and governmental offices, including Bayfield County Government, Washburn School District, Healthcare Center, and Washburn Iron Works.

Washburn is a full-service municipality and prides itself on being a great community to live, work, and play. Salary $100,000-$120,000 plus excellent benefits, DOQ. Mayor and seven City Council Members elected on a non-partisan basis. $6.2M total budget including Sewer, Stormwater and Water Utilities and TIF, 21 FT and approx. 50+PT employees (includes fire, EMS, park & recreation, etc.). Future emphasis on economic development/redevelopment, budgeting, and coordinating projects in TID No. 3.

Require a Bachelor’s degree in public administration or related field; prefer a Master’s Degree with at least 3 years of progressive municipal management experience. Residency is encouraged but not required. Desire a strong background in budget development/debt financing (including TIF experience); capital project planning & coordination, and proactive in responding to economic development opportunities, and a successful track record in grant writing/administration. The successful candidate shall possess the ability to think outside the box, a strong work ethic, and be a team builder and leader in addressing community issues; have a record of organizational accomplishments; and demonstrate open, positive communication skills and leadership in addressing community issues and problems. Candidates with private-sector or military experience will be considered if they can demonstrate accomplishments that directly relate to the identified skills.

Visit the community website at www.cityofwashburnwi.gov or the detailed community/position Profile here: Washburn Profile for more information.

Send cover letter, resume, salary history and references to Public Administration Associates, LLC, Attn: Shawn Murphy, Associate; 24505 250^th Avenue Holcombe, WI 54745 or e-mail smurphy@public-administration.com; phone 608-370-1663, by 3:00 p.m., June 22, 2026. The deadline will remain open until the position is filled. Confidentiality must be requested by the applicant and cannot be guaranteed for finalists.

Jobs in Washburn

City Administrator