The Town of North Topsail Beach, NC (Pop.1.1K - 33K seasonally), is seeking a highly qualified local government professional to join its leadership team. Located on the northernmost part of Topsail Island, the Town seeks a strong and versatile leader with extensive management experience, capable of addressing the challenges of providing high quality services in a coastal community.

North Topsail Beach is adjacent to Surf City and Topsail Beach on the south end of the island. Each town is unique, with North Topsail Beach being known for being relaxed and peaceful with an abundance of natural treasures. The North Topsail Beach motto - Nature’s Tranquil Beauty - says it all. From breathtaking sunrises to spectacular sunsets, from beautiful sandy beaches to maritime forests, North Topsail Beach truly is an island paradise. It is known for its pristine, tranquil beaches, perfect for sunbathing, beachcombing, and water activities like kayaking and surfing.

Located in Onslow County, North Topsail Beach is primarily residential with a population just over 1,100 but rises to 33,000 seasonally. The land area is 10.6 square miles. The median income is $57,386 with a median age of 60.5 (2024).

North Topsail Beach is organized under a Council-Manager form of government. In this system, residents elect a governing body, including a mayor and a board of aldermen, to adopt legislation and set policies. The Board of Aldermen is made up of 6 members, 5 aldermen, and a mayor. The mayor is elected every 2 years. Aldermen serve 4-year terms. Town Government positions in FY 2026 are 45 FTE’s and 11 PTE’s spread among the following departments: Administration/Finance, IT, Planning, Inspections, Police, Public Works and Fire. In the current fiscal year, the adopted budget for all funds is $9.42M.

The Manager shall serve as the chief administrative officer as well as the Budget Officer and is the chief administrator of the Town responsible to the Board of Aldermen for administering all municipal affairs.

The ideal candidate shall meet the following:
• A Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, or related field with ten years’ experience in government; a minimum of seven years’ experience in local government as an assistant city administrator, or director of a large / complex department or agency; extensive experience with budget and personnel management and a capital program; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities.
• Master’s in public administration is preferred.

The hiring range is $140,000 - $190,000 + depending on qualifications and experience. Employees of North Topsail Beach enjoy a range of benefits designed to support their well-being and professional growth.

Interested candidates should apply online by May 15, 2026. Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply online at www.GovHRjobs.com with a resume and cover letter. For more information or confidential questions, please feel free to contact Sarah McKee, Senior Consultant at 847-380-3240 ext. 120.

The Town of North Topsail Beach is committed to compliance with the American Disabilities Act and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Diversity and inclusion are critical to their success. No applicant or employee shall be deprived of employment opportunities because of such individual’s race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, familial status, or genetic information.