Ellis County judge position posted online; April 21 deadline set for applications
Following Ellis County Judge Todd Little’s recent announcement that he will be resigning, the county has posted the job description and application process for those interested in throwing their hat in the ring.
Little is stepping down from his elected position to become the executive director for the North Central Texas Council of Governments, which is a coalition of 16 counties, including Ellis.
The person selected by the county commissioners’ court to take over as county judge will complete the remainder of Little’s term (roughly 18 months) and would need to win the 2026 general election to remain in the position.
According to the county’s website posting, the county judge position receives a base salary of $126,324 plus an $18,000 juvenile board supplement. The deadline to apply is 11:59 p.m. Monday, April 21. Details are as follows:
Position overview:
The Ellis County judge serves as the chief elected official and chief executive officer of the county government; responsible for the overall administration and operations of the county, serves as the budget officer, presides over commissioners’ court meetings and is the emergency management director, who is responsible for coordinating disaster relief. While the county judge is involved with making critical decisions regarding local governance and policy, this role offers discretion in decision making; the position requires proposing the annual budget and the tax rate for commissioners’ court adoption annually. Integrity, strong interpersonal skills and ethical leadership are paramount for this position. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of fiscal responsibility and financial management, an understanding of Texas law, and a commitment to ensuring the welfare and progress of Ellis County citizens through collaboration, strategic planning and partnerships.
Key responsibilities:
• Preside over meetings of the commissioners’ court, facilitating discussion and decision-making processes.
• Administer county policies and operations while ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal laws.
• Oversee the county's budget, financial operations, and fiscal planning.
• Act as the county’s chief executive officer, managing and coordinating operations of county non-elected departments and services.
• Serve as the emergency director of the county overseeing the Office of Emergency Management and disaster relief efforts and apply for federal aid.
• Serve as a member of the local juvenile board.
• Chair the county election commission to evaluate duties, responsibilities and evaluate performance of the election administrator.
• Serve as a member of the local election board with other elected officials to review election procedures, name judges and set dates, time and location for all elections.
• Receive and approve bonds and sureties for various county concerns.
• Collaborate with other government officials, stakeholders, and community organizations to promote the best interests of the county.
• Represent the county at local, state, and federal associations, meetings and events.
• Testify at hearings and committees on county affairs and subjects that impact county local governance.
Qualifications:
• Experience in business, legal, governmental, or administrative roles.
• Strong understanding of Texas government, county structure, and intergovernmental affairs.
• Proven leadership experience in managing teams, budgets, and operations.
• Ability to make informed, fair, and timely decisions under pressure.
• Strong problem-solving and conflict resolution skills.
• Previous experience in public service or community service is preferred.
• Ability to work collaboratively with government officials, staff, and the public.
Requirements:
• U.S. citizen and at least 18 years of age.
• Resident of Texas for at least 12 consecutive months.
• Resident of Ellis County for at least six consecutive months.
• Registered to vote in Ellis County.
• Not previously convicted of any felony.
• Able to obtain a public official’s bond as required in Texas Government Code § 26.001.
How to apply:
Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, personal and professional references, and background authorization form to:
Ellis County Human Resources
302 N. Monroe St., Suite 338
Waxahachie, TX 75165
Or apply online at Citizen Access.
Applications may be downloaded from https://www.co.ellis.tx.us/jobs.aspx.
“Please include your relevant qualifications and experience and explain why you are committed to serving the people of Ellis County,” the posting reads.
