State and Local Government Careers
Almost 8 million people are employed by state and local governments, and 70% of those employees work for the governments of their counties, cities, towns, or special districts. Together, firefighters and law enforcement officials make up the largest group of those local government employees.
State and local government jobs
About 11% of state and local government jobs are in management, business, and financial occupations. These state and local government careers include:
- Legislators
- Accountants and auditors
- Tax examiners, collectors, and revenue agents
- Chief executives
- General and operations managers
Legislators, executives, and managers establish public policy and develop laws, rules, and regulations. These officials may be elected or appointed. Legislators at the state and local levels include state senators and representatives, county commissioners, and city council members. Chief executives include governors, lieutenant governors, mayors, and city managers.
Required education for state and local government jobs
Educational backgrounds required for these jobs vary. Elected officials rely on their records of service to the community. However, an MBA in public administration is a good preparation for a future city manager.
Salaries for state and local government jobs
Based on 2004 data, annual median salaries for careers in state and local government include:
| Job Title | Salary |
|---|---|
| Assistant Chief Administrative Officer | $80,232 |
| City Manager | $87,000 |
| Chief Elected Official | $8,000 |
| Chief Financial Officer | $75,000 |
| Chief Law Enforcement Official | $70,000 |
| Chief Librarian | $56,000 |
| Clerk | $47,000 |
| Economic Development Director | $70,000 |
| Fire Chief | $70,000 |
| Health Officer | $62,000 |
| Human Services Director | $65,000 |
| Human Resources Director | $70,000 |
| Information Services Director | $76,000 |
| Parks & Recreation Director | $63,000 |
| Public Works Director | $70,000 |
| Purchasing Director | $59,000 |
| Treasurer | $52,000 |
Degree and certificate programs
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Source: Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2006-2007 Edition; Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor.