City of Hercules
THE OPPORTUNITY
Ideally located in the Bay Area, the City of Hercules presents a rare opportunity for an experienced municipal executive to make a meaningful and lasting impact in a community with tremendous potential. Positioned at a pivotal moment in its evolution, Hercules is seeking a City Manager who can help strengthen the organization, guide thoughtful economic growth, and build long-term fiscal sustainability while preserving the community’s strong sense of identity and quality of life. This is an opportunity to work alongside an engaged City Council, dedicated staff, and diverse community on issues that matter – from waterfront revitalization and economic development to organizational improvement and community trust. For a leader who values hands-on problem solving, collaborative governance, and the ability to shape the future, Hercules offers both challenge and purpose.
ABOUT HERCULES
Nestled along the northeastern shoreline of San Pablo Bay in the East Bay, the City of Hercules is a vibrant, diverse, and forward-looking community of approximately 26,500 residents. Ideally situated along the Interstate 80 corridor at the junction with State Route 4, Hercules offers exceptional regional connectivity, located roughly equidistant between San Francisco and Napa Valley.
Hercules is a family-oriented community known for its safe neighborhoods, attractive housing, and high quality of life. Residents enjoy an extensive network of parks, trails, and open space – nearly one-third of the City’s land area – providing scenic views, outdoor recreation, and access to nature. Blending its historic roots with a clear vision for the future, Hercules continues to evolve as a model Bay Area community – offering a unique combination of small-town character, regional accessibility, and innovative urban planning.
CITY GOVERNMENT
Incorporated in 1900, the City of Hercules is a General Law city with a Council-Manager form of government. The City Council governs the City and is comprised of five members who are elected at large to alternating four-year terms. In December of each year, the City Council selects a Mayor and Vice Mayor for one-year terms.
Hercules is largely a full-service city, except that fire services are provided by the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District. The City’s six departments include Community Development, Finance, Human Resources, Parks & Recreation, Police, and Public Works. The City of Hercules has a dedicated workforce that is approved for 65 full-time employees with a FY 2025-26 all funds budget of over $47 million, which includes a General Fund budget of $21 million.
THE POSITION
The City of Hercules is seeking a collaborative and forward-thinking leader to serve as its next City Manager. Reporting directly to the City Council, the City Manager oversees all municipal operations and provides strategic leadership across City departments. This role requires a skilled executive who can balance long-term planning with day-to-day operational excellence while building strong relationships with employees, residents, community partners, and regional agencies. Key responsibilities include providing strategic advice and policy recommendations to the City Council while implementing Council priorities and initiatives; guiding the development and administration of the City’s annual budget and financial planning; fostering a positive organizational culture that emphasizes accountability, collaboration, innovation, and professional development; directing and supporting executive management staff; overseeing long-range planning efforts, operational improvements, and organizational initiatives; and addressing complex and sensitive issues with sound judgment, transparency, and a strong commitment to public service.
The City Council seeks a grounded, approachable, and results-oriented municipal leader who combines strategic thinking with day-to-day operational discipline. The ideal candidate will be a strong communicator, a trusted advisor, and a collaborative partner who can guide the organization through fiscal challenges while maintaining focus on service delivery, accountability, and community trust.
QUALIFICATIONS
Any combination equivalent to experience and education that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities would be qualifying. A typical combination is:
Education: Possession of a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, with major course work in Public Administration, Finance or a closely related field. A Master’s degree in Public Administration, or a closely related field, is highly desirable.
Experience: Ten years of progressively responsible management experience in municipal government and/or private sector work with at least five years of experience in a high-level administrative or executive capacity. Experience working for a municipality or other public agency is highly desirable.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The City of Hercules offers a competitive executive compensation and benefits package, including CalPERS retirement, generous City contributions toward health coverage and retirement savings, executive leave, professional development support, and a strong commitment to work-life balance and employee wellness. The salary range for the City Manager is $270,400 to $302,356.
For additional benefit information, interested candidates are encouraged to review the detailed recruitment brochure at www.mosaicpublic.com/careers.
APPLICATION & SELECTION PROCESS
Interested candidates should submit a comprehensive résumé and compelling cover letter apply no later than Monday, June 22, 2026 at:
www.mosaicpublic.com/careers
This is a confidential selection process. References will not be contacted until mutual interest has been established. Confidential inquiries are welcomed to:
Greg Nelson | greg@mosaicpublic.com | (916) 581-1426