The City of Burlington is seeking applications for their next City Administrator. To view full job posting go to: www.KRW-Associates.com
The City & Surrounding Area- The City of Burlington, CO (pop. 3,172) is a beautiful rural community located on the High Plains of eastern Colorado, 170 miles east of Denver, and 12 miles west of the Colorado/Kansas border. As the county seat of Kit Carson County, Burlington serves as a business hub for the region, where the economic engine is primarily farming, ranching and agricultural-related businesses, however, renewable energy, hospitality, education, healthcare, banking, and other local businesses also play a role.
Incorporated in 1888, Burlington has long been home to hard-working, caring people who are protective of the land and take great pride in their community. Burlington is home to a traditional downtown area, beautiful parks, a swimming pool, walking trails, a nine-hole golf course, a library and an airport, among other amenities. The City’s Recreation and Activities Department offers a host of community leagues, classes and activities for residents of all ages. Public officials work diligently to ensure access to modern high-quality services. Students are served by the Burlington Public Schools (Pre-K—12), a hub for community activities, and college courses are offered through the Burlington Community Center, a satellite campus of Morgan Community College.
The Burlington Police Department, and the Volunteer Fire Department provide public safety services. The Kit Carson County Memorial Hospital is a regional medical center with primary and specialty care, and emergency services.
Community traditions such as the Kit Carson County Fair, rodeos, livestock shows, and a community barbeque are highlights during the summer. The winter brings the annual Parade of Lights, Winterwonder Lights, and Christmas Tree Stroll among other celebrations. The Kit Carson County Carousel, a 120-year-old beautifully restored carousel, and The Old Town Museum, a 6-acre site of 21 fully restored historic buildings showcasing artifacts from the turn of the century, are some of the unique attractions that draw visitors to town. The museum hosts old-west shows and a dinner theater, and serves as a year-round venue for business meetings, weddings, reunions, and community events. Burlington certainly lives up to its mission to be a “strong vibrant community.”
Burlington is a home-rule city with a Mayor/Council form of government. The Council members are elected to 4-year staggered terms. Each represent all areas of the City. The City Administrator is appointed and serves as the Chief Administrative Officer to manage and oversee the City’s day-to-day operations. To learn more about the City of Burlington, go to : Burlington, CO - Official Website | Official Website
The Position- The City of Burlington is seeking a forward-thinking and community-minded leader to serve as the next City Administrator. This is an excellent opportunity to guide a full-service municipality with a strong financial position and a knowledgeable and dedicated staff .
The City Administrator serves at the pleasure of the City Council and under the general supervision of the Mayor. He/she is the chief administrative officer overseeing the City’s daily operations and is responsible for the proper administration of city services, business affairs and sound fiscal management. The City Administrator works with the Mayor, City Council and staff on strategic planning, and leads the staff on the implementation of the City’s short- and long-range goals and initiatives.
The City Administrator directly supervises the department heads overseeing Administration, the Police Department, the Municipal Airport, the Public Works Department and the Culture & Recreation Departments and indirectly manages all City staff, with the exception of the City Attorney and the Municipal Judge.
The Ideal Candidate
A strong leader with at least three (3) to five (5) years of experience in local government administration.
Appreciates the rural lifestyle, embraces the community, and is a positive and visible presence in Burlington.
Has demonstrated experience and a record of success with economic development.
Is an excellent communicator who listens intently; is calm, clear, responsive, transparent, and open to feedback.
Is financially savvy and fiscally responsible. Has detailed working knowledge of municipal finance and the budget process. Is experienced with securing alternate funding through grants, state and federal funding options. etc.
Is humble, approachable and highly ethical. Builds and maintains trust and positive working relationships with staff, elected officials, community members, regional partners, and other stakeholders.
Is a successful project manager who is willing to “get into the trenches” with staff to ensure timely and accurate completion of projects, (e.g. updates to ordinances, state reporting requirements, etc.)
Respects the role of the elected officials. Understands policy versus administration, keeps the Mayor and Council informed, provides objectives and recommendations to the Council, and remains calm and professional when discussions are difficult.
Is a visionary who is experienced with strategic planning and implementation.
Qualifications
A bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration or a related field. A master’s degree (MPA, MBA or related advanced degree) is preferred. Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in government, and/or business with at least three (3) years of experience working in local government administration, finance, planning or a similar area. An equivalent combination of education, training and relevant experience may be considered. Must possess a valid driver’s license and maintain an acceptable driving record.
Opportunities & Challenges
Housing– Work with developers and community partners to design and build options for affordable housing.
Child Care- Attract and/or work with interested parties to build a local licensed child care center to address the lack of affordable child care.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)- Become versed in AI, and develop policies around the responsible and efficient use of AI in municipal administrative operations.
Planning & Zoning / Board of Adjustment & Appeals– Take the necessary steps to implement a Planning & Zoning Commission and a Board of Adjustments & Appeals. Develop guidelines and training for the new board members and commissioners to ensure legal compliance and proper operations.
Police Department Staffing Retention - Develop incentives to recruit and retain high-quality police officers committed to keeping the community safe and with the desire to serve Burlington for the long-term. The incidence of officers being recruited away by neighboring agencies, or leaving the profession has been a challenge.
Communications Specialist– Recruit and hire a professional communications specialist position to enhance the City’s internal and external communications, community outreach, and public trust. The focus of this newly approved position is website modernization and maintenance, social media presence, community outreach and engagement, news releases, internal documentation, etc.
Apply Online at: www.KRW-Associates.com/open-positions. Provide a cover letter, resume and six (6) professional references. Deadline: Friday, August 14, 2026 5:00 PM Mountain Time.
Questions? KRW Associates LLC is assisting the City of Burlington, CO with this search. Direct questions to: KRW-Associates.com/contact or by phone to KRW Managing Partner Lorne Kramer | 719-310-8960 or Senior Associates Mark Collins | 307-460-1941 or Gina McGrail | 303-249-9572. The City of Burlington is an equal opportunity employer.
Compensation & Benefits- Salary Range: $135,000—$160,000
The City provides a generous benefit package to include health, dental, vision, and life insurance. The City pays 100% of the premium for the employee and family.
Paid Holidays– 11 per year. Sick and vacation time is allocated monthly; vacation time is dependent on years of service. In addition to Social Security, a tax-deferred 401(k) is offered for a retirement savings plan. (The employer matching contribution is 5%, and is increased 1% every three years, up to a maximum 10% employer contribution). The City Administrator is provided with a city-issued vehicle and cell phone. City-owned housing is available. It consists of a 3-bedroom, 2-bath home constructed in the 1980’s (somewhat dated), sited approximately 3 miles south of the City. This is provided at no cost, except for utilities. Should the successful candidate decide on alternate housing options, no housing allowance is provided for.
