Executive Assistant

Executive Assistant – City Manager's Office

The City of Novato is seeking an experienced, forward‑thinking Executive Assistant to provide high level professional support to the City Manager. This is a unique opportunity for a trusted professional who thrives in a fast‑paced, mission‑driven environment and wants to contribute at the highest levels of municipal leadership. Working closely with the City Manager and executive management team, this position plays a critical role in supporting the operational and community‑focused work of the organization, and enables the City Manager to focus on strategic priorities.

First Review Final date to receive applications: 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, February 1, 2026.

The ideal candidate is a proactive problem‑solver who enjoys creating structure, and consistently uses sound judgment and a high degree of political acumen. This role goes far beyond traditional administrative support, where success in this position requires the ability to anticipate needs, navigate competing priorities, and interact thoughtfully with elected officials, department leaders, the public, and community partners.

Novato is a collaborative, service‑oriented organization that values integrity, transparency, and excellence in public service. The Executive Assistant in the City Manager’s Office is a valued partner in advancing these values and supporting effective, well‑informed decision‑making. If you are a detail‑oriented professional who exercises discretion, understands the nuances of public‑sector leadership, and is motivated by meaningful work in local government, we invite you to explore this exciting career opportunity with the City of Novato.

• 9/80 work schedule – every other Friday off
• Accrue 80 hours of vacation to start
• Provided with 40 hours of sick leave upon hire
• 14 paid holidays per year
• Provided with up to 108 hours of Administrative Leave
• Qualified Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL) Agency
• Free parking on site
• Office is within walking distance of terrific restaurants, shopping and the SMART Station

To perform a variety of high‑level, confidential, and complex administrative, analytic, and project management duties for an assigned City Manager, Assistant City Manager and/or Department Director; to coordinate and streamline office and departmental functions in support of goals and objectives; to assist with sensitive and strategic initiatives; and to provide information and assistance to the public regarding departmental policies, procedures, and programs.

• Receives direction from an assigned City Manager, Assistant City Manager and/or Department Director.
• May exercise direct or indirect supervision over technical, administrative, or clerical support personnel as assigned.

Essential and other important responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Perform a wide variety of responsible, complex, and sensitive administrative support duties for an assigned City Manager, Assistant City Manager, Department Director, including providing analytical support, recommending process improvements, and developing and maintaining efficiencies in workflows.
• Participate in and assist with the administration of the department; assist in preparing comprehensive reports, meeting agendas, and minutes.
• Process agreements and contracts; maintain a tracking system and ensure compliance with bond, insurance, licensing, and other requirements; coordinate with vendors, and review with Risk Management and legal counsel as needed.
• Develop and maintain spreadsheets, databases, dashboards, or other systems; prepare and distribute technical and performance reports.
• Research, compile, and analyze background and policy data for the City Manager, Assistant City Manager, Department Director, City Council, and senior management; lead or support departmental special projects; prepare independent draft reports and documentation; maintain records and files on departmental administrative activity.
• Type, proofread, and edit reports, letters, memoranda, and statistical information; draft correspondence; manage policy and…