Upstart is more than a consulting firm — it is a place where emerging public administrators gain real responsibility, meaningful mentorship, and the chance to shape the future of growing Texas communities. We believe that strong professionals and strong cities develop together, and we structure our placements to support both.

Real responsibility from day one. Early-career administrators placed through Upstart take on substantive roles in small but rapidly developing cities. You won’t be buried in paperwork or confined to a narrow department. You’ll be helping to run an entire organization.

You’ll receive ongoing guidance from an experienced municipal manager who reviews your work, helps you navigate challenges, and supports your professional development. You grow — and your city grows with you.

Upstart professionals gain exposure to budgeting, public works, planning, HR, procurement, and governance within their first year. This breadth of experience accelerates your path toward senior leadership roles.

We believe every community deserves access to qualified professionals. Working with Upstart means contributing to an equitable and purpose-driven model of governance that strengthens democracy at the local level.

• Career Paths Through Upstart

• City Administrator / City Manager-in-Training

• Assistant to the City Administrator

• Budget & Finance roles

• Planning and Development support

• Administrative Services roles

• Project coordination and strategic planning

Our placements vary by city size, community needs, and candidate strengths.

• Upstart is seeking individuals who are:

• recent MPA graduates or early-career professionals

• strong writers and communicators

• calm, ethical, and resourceful problem-solvers

• eager to take on meaningful responsibility

• genuinely committed to public service

• willing to relocate to serve a community

If you believe in good governance and want a career with purpose, Upstart is built for you.