What does a public administrator do?

I'm curious about what a public administrator actually does. How does this job differ from other roles in public service, and what qualifications do you typically need? Would this be a good career to pursue after college?

A public administrator typically plays a management role within public service organizations. This can include government agencies at the local, state, or federal level, as well as non-profits and other public sector organizations. The main thrust of public administration is to implement policies that have been decided on by elected officials and to manage public programs and services.

One major aspect that sets public administration apart from many other roles in public service is the sheer breadth of responsibility. Public administrators often oversee budgets, human resources, and communications. They may negotiate and manage contracts, run public relations campaigns, analyze data to assess program effectiveness, engage with the community to understand public needs, and help develop innovative solutions to public issues.

As for qualifications, many public administrators hold a degree in public administration, public policy, business administration or a similar field. Some roles might require a master's degree in public administration (MPA) or a similar field for higher-level or specialized positions. Additional desirable skills include leadership, effective communication, problem-solving capability, a strong ethical sense, and a thorough understanding of how government and public organizations function.

Whether public administration is a good career to pursue largely depends on your interests. If you're drawn to leadership roles that involve making strategic decisions as well as tactical management, and if you're interested in serving the public and shaping and implementing public policy, then public administration could certainly be a good fit. However, like any career, it's not suited to everyone. In terms of job outlook and salary, it's quite variable depending on the specific role and location so you might want to research that aspect a bit more.

Examples of career paths in public administration include roles such as city manager, budget director, or head of a government department or agency, among many others. For instance, a city manager oversees the day-to-day functions of a city's government, while a budget director is responsible for creating and maintaining an organization's budget, both of which align with public administration.

Bottom line, a career in public administration can be immensely rewarding for someone passionate about public service and strong leadership. It offers a unique opportunity to influence public policy and has a direct impact on communities.