Pewaukee City Administrator

The City of Pewaukee is seeking a dynamic and proven municipal administrator to serve as its chief administrative officer. Located just west of Milwaukee in Waukesha County’s “Lake Country” and along I-94, Pewaukee is a highly desirable community for those seeking a safe suburban setting with convenient access to regional assets. The City has a growing population of just over 16,300 residents, and combines small-town charm with all the amenities of a full-service community. The City boasts a strong local economy, regional shopping opportunities, a high-achieving school district, and a multitude of recreational assets, including beautiful Pewaukee Lake, fourteen public parks, including the Pewaukee Sports Complex (the City operates a joint Parks and Recreation Department with the adjacent Village of Pewaukee), and an extensive and growing trail system. Pewaukee has the best of all worlds, with ready access to big-league cultural, entertainment, and sports attractions while maintaining a fantastic small-town atmosphere.

Pewaukee is a community that distinguishes itself as a great place to live, work, play, learn, and visit, and that provides high-quality municipal services. The City Administrator reports directly to the Mayor, elected on a three-year term, and six Common Council members, with two elected for each of the three districts for alternating 3-year terms. The City’s 2026 Budget is $47.2M, which includes General, Debt Service, Capital Equipment, Capital Projects, and Stormwater Management Funds. A separate budget is maintained for the Water & Sewer Utility. There are approximately 120 full-time and part-time employees and 75 seasonal employees; the Administrator is the direct supervisor of all department heads.

Starting salary range is $140,000 to $180,000 (negotiable DOQ) plus excellent benefits, including low-deductible health insurance and participation in the Wisconsin Retirement System, which is among the best-funded and best-managed public pension systems in the country.

A strong background in strategic and organizational leadership, financial and budgetary acumen, talent attraction and development, elected official and stakeholder public relations, and community engagement is desired. The ideal Pewaukee candidate will have a collaborative style in working with staff, a high degree of emotional intelligence, an open and positive communications approach, and a passion for public service. Maintaining and enhancing Pewaukee’s leadership position in intergovernmental relationships with surrounding municipalities, including the villages of Lisbon and Pewaukee, the Pewaukee School District, and Waukesha County, is critical to the community’s future. The next Pewaukee City Administrator’s future emphasis will be on maintaining Pewaukee’s strong financial position while expanding the City’s tax base and enhancing employment opportunities through strategic community development and redevelopment initiatives.