What are the responsibilities and job description for the TOWN CLERK position at Town of Falmouth, MA?
The Town of Falmouth is seeking an experienced, collaborative, and service-oriented professional to serve as its next Town Clerk. This highly responsible management position leads the Town Clerk’s Office and performs the statutory duties of the Town Clerk in accordance with Massachusetts General Laws, the Town Charter, Town bylaws, and applicable federal and state requirements.
The Town Clerk serves as Falmouth’s official record keeper and chief election officer and plays an essential role in ensuring transparent, accessible, accurate, and responsive municipal government. Reporting to the Town Manager, the Town Clerk plans, directs, and oversees the services, staff, budget, and daily operations of the Town Clerk’s Office. Major areas of responsibility include all aspects of federal, state, and local election administration and voter registration; vital and municipal records; Town Meeting; submission of newly adopted Town bylaws to the Attorney General for review and approval; administration of oaths of office to elected and appointed officials; annual census activities; licensing; public records; and the maintenance, disposition, and preservation of municipal archival records and materials.
The successful candidate will be an experienced and knowledgeable municipal professional who demonstrates sound judgment, integrity, political neutrality, exceptional attention to detail, and a commitment to excellent public service. The position requires the ability to manage complex statutory responsibilities and deadlines, lead and support employees, communicate clearly with diverse constituencies, and implement effective technology, procedures, and internal controls.
The position’s regular schedule is Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with evening, early-morning, weekend, and extended hours required in connection with elections, Town Meetings, statutory deadlines, and other departmental responsibilities.
Minimum Qualifications: B achelor’s degree in public administration, business administration, government, political science, records management, or a related field. Must have a minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in a municipal clerk’s office, election administration, municipal records management, or a closely related field, including significant supervisory or management experience; or any equivalent combination of education, training, or experience that demonstrates possession of the required knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the essential functions of the position. Substantial experience administering Massachusetts elections and performing the statutory functions of a Massachusetts Town Clerk is strongly preferred.
The successful candidate must be bondable. Designation as a Certified Massachusetts Municipal Clerk (CMMC) through the Massachusetts Town Clerks’ Association and/or Certified Municipal Clerk (CMC) through the International Institute of Municipal Clerks is strongly preferred. Must have a valid driver’s license.
Anticipated Starting Salary and Benefits: Step 1 ($105,830.40 annually) - Step 3 ($113,152.00 annually) of the 10-step pay scale, commensurate with qualifications and experience, with eligibility for annual advancement up to Step 10.
Comprehensive benefits package, including 13 paid holidays per year; vacation, sick, and personal paid leave; professional development opportunities; Town contribution of up to 75% of the cost of health insurance; cost-effective dental, vision, life insurance, and disability plans; enrollment in the Town’s defined-benefit pension plan; and voluntary pre-tax and Roth 457(b) plans.
Preference Date to Apply: Monday, September 28, 2026 by 4:30 p.m. The position will remain open until filled, but candidates who apply by the above date and time will be given priority consideration. Candidates are strongly encouraged to upload a cover letter and resume to the online application portal.
About the Town of Falmouth as an Employer: The Town of Falmouth is a people-centered municipality committed to public service excellence. We strive to foster an inclusive and supportive work culture grounded in professionalism, collaboration, and accountability, and we invest in our employees through ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcome applications from all qualified candidates. The Town offers competitive compensation , and benefit-eligible positions offer comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance and other valuable benefits , including participation in the Town's pension plan . All applicants must be able to interact and work effectively and respectfully with individuals and groups of various abilities, cultures, backgrounds, ages, and identities.
About the Community: Located on the southwest tip of Cape Cod, Falmouth is a vibrant coastal community comprising eight villages and seven historic districts. With a year-round population of approximately 32,500 that nearly triples during the summer season, Falmouth offers a unique blend of scenic beauty, historic charm, civic engagement, and organizational excellence. The Town strives to be a premier Cape community that provides a responsive, accessible, and inclusive environment for all.
Salary : $105,830 - $113,152