City Manager - Streator, Illinois

Job Description:

City Manager - Streator, Illinois

Description

Job Summary
Streator, Illinois population of 12,500 is seeking an energetic and strategic City Manager to lead the development, management, and growth of their community. In this pivotal role, you will serve as the primary leader responsible for overseeing city operations, fostering economic development, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality services to residents and businesses alike. Your energetic leadership will drive strategic initiatives, promote sustainable growth, and enhance the overall quality of life within the city. This position offers a dynamic opportunity for a motivated professional to make a lasting impact on the community.

The Community

Streator is a strategically located and affordable community less than 100 miles southwest of Chicago, positioned near I-39, I-55, and I-80 and served by three railroads, including two Class I lines. Its compact development pattern allows for easy mobility, short commute times, and minimal congestion. With a low cost of living and a safe, small-town atmosphere, Streator offers high quality of life while remaining focused on economic growth and revitalization.

Rich in ethnic heritage, Streator was shaped by Slovak, Polish, German, Italian, Welsh, and other immigrant communities and remains proud of its cultural roots. The city produced notable innovators such as Burt Baskin, co-founder of Baskin-Robbins, and Clyde Tombaugh, discoverer of Pluto.

Today, Streator supports entrepreneurs and small businesses through local economic development initiatives and technical assistance programs. The community is further strengthened by a strong culture of volunteerism, with residents actively engaged in civic organizations, youth programs, events, and community improvement efforts—demonstrating a shared commitment to the city’s continued success.

Ideal Candidate

• Energetic, positive, and visible leader who is actively engaged and present in the community
• Patient and responsive communicator who listens well and shares hard truths with clarity and transparency
• Forward-thinking professional with new, big ideas and a record of prior success in other communities
• Strong budgeting, fiscal management, and grant writing skills
• Skilled in human resources and team development
• Aggressive and strategic in recruiting and retaining businesses

Position Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, political science, law, engineering or related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• ICMA-CM is preferred
• A minimum of 2 to 5 years of executive municipal leadership experience

Compensation and Benefits

• The salary range for this position is $140,000 to $155,000
• The City of Streator offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including a vehicle allowance, family health insurance, paid leave, and professional development support.
• Participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) ensures long-term financial security.
• The City values work-life balance and offers 3 personal days plus your birthday, 12 paid holidays, 20 days of vacation upon hire, and 10 days of sick leave upon hire.
• Professional growth is encouraged through City-paid training opportunities and professional memberships, reflecting the City’s commitment to continuous development and leadership excellence.
• Additional benefits include 5 months of severance pay and up to $10,000 in relocation assistance, reimbursable with documentation.

Application Process:

To apply, please submit a cover letter, résumé, and five professional references to:

[email protected]

Confidential inquiries may be directed to:

James W. Arndt, President & CEO

Arndt Municipal Support, Inc.

(217) 500-0770

Apply by March 23, 2026.

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

The City of Streator, Illinois is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

 

Salary:

$140,000 - $155,000