Camden fields 22 town manager candidates so far, with six weeks till application deadline
On Aug. 26, the Town of Camden posted its help wanted advertisement for a new town manager with the Maine Municipal Association, listing October 31 as deadline for applications submission.
As of Sept. 15, 22 applications had been received by the town.
The search for a new town manager followed a fractious summer in leadership in Camden. Current Town Manager Audra Caler signed a separation of employment agreement June 26 with the Camden Select Board, after nine years of serving as the Camden's town manager.
In late August, Caler said she would be taking the Yarmouth Town Manager position, and relocate to that Cumberland County town. Her first day of work in Yarmouth is Oct. 1.
Until a new town manager is selected, Camden Finance Director Jodi Hanson maintains the helm as delegated town manager while Caler, who is on a medical leave, finishes out her term of office to the end of September.
Camden agreed to contract with Jay Feyler, who works with Maine Municipal Association, to assist in the search and selection of a Camden Town Manager. The Board agreed to spend $6,600 on the process. MMA handling all correspondence and direct contact with candidates and arrange for the location of interviews.
The $6,600 is to cover up to five meetings, and, according to the contract: "Meetings beyond the sixth will be charged at Mr. Feyler’s normal billing rate, plus expenses. The Town will pay for advertising costs, but all arrangements will be made by MMA. MMA will pre-pay for all advertising and then invoice the Town accordingly when the executive search is complete."
The town manager job listing for Camden follows:
Town Manager - Town of Camden
Start Date: August 26, 2026 | End Date: October 31, 2026
County: Knox County
Employer: Town of Camden
Job Type: Manager
More Information: Click here
TOWN MANAGER
Town of Camden, Maine
The Town of Camden is seeking an exceptional, collaborative leader to serve as its next Town Manager.
About the Area
Known as the "Jewel of the Maine Coast," Camden is a world-class destination where the mountains literally meet the sea. The historic, walkable downtown wraps around a scenic windjammer harbor filled with sailboats and active waterfront commerce. Residents enjoy unparalleled access to outdoor recreation, including hiking and skiing at the only municipal owned ski area, the Camden Snow Bowl, sailing on Penobscot Bay, and exploring pristine freshwater lakes. The community thrives on a rich cultural scene, featuring the historic Camden Opera House, a renowned public library and amphitheater, and celebrated local dining. It is a safe, tight-knit, and deeply engaged community that offers an exceptional quality of life for families and professionals alike.
Position Overview
Camden is a vibrant, year-round community of approximately 5,000 residents that expands significantly during the scenic summer months. The Town operates under a Select Board-Town Manager form of government with an annual budget of approximately $12 million and 50 dedicated full-time employees. The ideal candidate will possess outstanding financial management skills, strong communication abilities, and a proven track record of transparent, community-minded leadership. Experience in coastal management, infrastructure planning, and economic development is highly desirable.
Key Responsibilities
- Chief Officer: Serve as the chief administrative and financial officer of the Town.
- Operations: Oversee day-to-day municipal operations, departments, and personnel.
- Fiscal Management: Prepare, implement, and manage the annual municipal budget and capital plan.
- Board Advisory: Advise the Select Board on policy, fiscal matters, and community needs.
- Community Relations: Foster positive relationships with residents, business owners, and regional partners.
- The manager also oversees the wastewater department and municipal owned ski area
Qualifications
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, or related field required; candidates with equivalent municipal experience are also encouraged to apply.
- Experience: Minimum of 5 years of progressive municipal leadership experience as a manager, administrator, assistant manager or other municipal leadership positions.
- Skills: Demonstrated expertise in municipal finance, labor relations, and grant administration.
- Communication: Excellent interpersonal and public speaking skills.
Salary and Benefits
The Town of Camden offers a competitive salary range of $120,000 to $155,000, commensurate with qualifications and experience. A comprehensive benefits package is also included, featuring health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
To Apply
Please submit a cover letter, resume, and three professional references.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. The Town of Camden is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
