Job Announcement Part-Time City Recorder
The historic City of Aurora is seeking a professional, organized, and community-oriented part-time City Recorder to join our dedicated team. Located just 25 miles south of Portland and home to approximately 1,100 residents, Aurora is a nationally recognized historic district known for its antique shops, strong civic spirit, and popular annual events like Aurora Colony Days.
About Aurora’s City Government
The City of Aurora is a chartered home rule city with a strong Mayor form of government. The City Council is comprised of a Mayor and four Councilors elected from the city at large. The Mayor serves on an unpaid basis as the official conductor of business of the City. The City is currently undergoing a charter review process to evaluate a possible shift to a council-manager form of government.
Aurora is actively investing in its future. Voters recently approved a bond measure to fund critical upgrades to the city’s water and sewer systems and to construct a new City Hall that reflects both Aurora’s historic identity and its long-term civic needs.
About the Position
By charter, the Recorder serves as the ex-officio clerk of the Council and is appointed by the Mayor with the consent of the Council, and may be removed by the council. The City Recorder is responsible for implementation of Council’s policy
In addition to the City Recorder, the city currently has two other full-time positions that report to the Mayor: Finance Officer, Public Works Superintendent. The City also has one full-time administrative assistant, who is supervised by the City Recorder. The City also has a contract City Attorney, City Engineer, City Planner and City Administrator. This position will work closely with the City's Interim City Administrator to ensure smooth and effective operations during an important period of transition.
The City Recorder serves as the official custodian of city records and plays a vital role in supporting transparency, accountability, and effective public engagement. Key responsibilities include preparing and maintaining City Council agendas and minutes, coordinating public records requests and city elections, managing the city’s archives, and assisting with permitting and administrative functions. The Recorder also supports public meetings, communications, and day-to-day operations across departments.
This is an exciting opportunity for a detail-oriented professional who values transparency, teamwork, and public service in a collaborative, small-town environment.
Key Responsibilities
Prepare agendas, packets, and minutes for City Council, Planning Commission, and Historic Review Board
Maintain and administer official city records and elections in compliance with state law
Supervise administrative, court, and community development staff and contractors
Coordinate utility billing, municipal court functions, and grant administration
Oversee building permits, code enforcement correspondence, and customer service
Serve as the public records custodian and maintain compliance with records retention schedules
Manage human resources including recruitment, personnel records, and policy implementation
Ensure proper risk management practices and emergency preparedness planning
Act as liaison with other jurisdictions, state agencies, and community members
Preferred Qualifications
Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in municipal government administration, preferably as a City Recorder, Clerk, Assistant to City Administrator, HR professional or any combination of experience and training that demonstration the ability to perform the essential job functions.
Strong knowledge of public meetings law, elections, records retention, and personnel management
Proven administrative and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
Proficiency with office and financial software, including utility billing and budgeting programs
Excellent communication and public relations skills
Must be bondable, hold a valid Oregon driver’s license, and pass a background check
Salary and Benefits
Salary: $30,000-50,000 Depending on FTE
Benefits: For employees working 32 hours or more the city provides the following benefits; Medical, dental, vision insurance; retirement through PERS (Public Employee Retirement Systems); 100% employer paid life insurance for Basic Life and Basic ADD, vacation accrual, and 11 paid holidays.
Work Environment
This position is in-person and requires attendance at evening meetings, the ability to work independently, and collaboration with elected officials, city staff, contractors, and the public. Candidates must be comfortable with both administrative responsibilities and front-facing customer service. City Hall is closed on Fridays.
Deadline to submit applications is July 18th at 5pm.
The City of Aurora is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds.
How to Apply
To apply, mail or email a cover letter, resume, 3 references, and completed employment application (available on the city’s website) to:
City of Aurora
Attn: Mayor Asher
21420 Main Street
Aurora, OR 97002