Code Administrator

Door County Fair; Sturgeon Bay (WI); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Door County Fair seeks a qualified candidate to ensure compliance with zoning ordinances and manage the Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment System program. The position involves conducting reviews and inspections, preparing for public hearings, and offering educational support.

Applicants should possess a relevant Bachelor’s degree and two years of experience. Strong analytical and communication skills are essential to maintain legal and technical compliance within the County.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field is required.
• 2 years progressive work experience is required.
• WI POWTS Inspector certification within 6 months of employment.

Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with County ordinances related to zoning and wastewater systems.
• Conduct technical reviews for zoning and sanitary permits.
• Perform site inspections and document findings.
• Prepare and coordinate public hearings.
• Offer technical assistance and educate stakeholders.

Skills

Analytical skills

Regulatory knowledge

Communication

Technical proficiency

Problem solving

Critical thinking

Collaboration

Independence

Education

Bachelor of Science in Urban or Regional Planning, Natural Resources, Geography, Landscape Architecture, or Public Administration

Job description

Job Description

Posted Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at 7:00 AM

Thank you for your interest in joining Door County Government!

Door County is proud to be a premier place to live, work, and visit. We serve nearly 30,000 year‑round residents and a vibrant seasonal population by providing essential services that support and protect the people, economy, and environment of the beautiful Door Peninsula.

Within the County organization, the Land Use Services Department oversees zoning administration, land use planning, environmental protection, and compliance with applicable county and state regulations. The department processes zoning permits, conditional use requests, variances, appeals, and proposed ordinance or map amendments, supporting informed decision‑making through public hearings and established review procedures.

Land Use Services also administers the County’s Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment System (POWTS) program, ensuring proper regulation, inspection, and monitoring to protect ground and surface water resources. In addition, the department develops and updates comprehensive and farmland preservation plans, prepares and maintains land use ordinances, and provides technical assistance, education, and coordination with local municipalities, state agencies, and community partners.

Through these combined functions, the Land Use Services Department promotes responsible development, environmental stewardship, and sound land use practices across Door County.

To continue this important work, we are seeking a candidate who will perform the responsibilities outlined in the job summary and contribute to our efforts in serving the community.

Job Summary

This position ensures compliance with County ordinances related to zoning, floodplain management, land divisions, and private wastewater systems through technical reviews, inspections, and public education. The role involves field and office work requiring strong analytical, regulatory, and communication skills to enforce policies, process permits, and provide information to stakeholders.

• Conducts pre‑application consultations and technical reviews for zoning and sanitary permits; evaluates compliance and approves or denies applications.
• Performs site inspections for zoning compliance and wastewater system installations; documents findings and initiates enforcement as needed.
• Prepares and coordinates public hearings for the Resource Planning Committee and Board of Adjustment; serves as clerk and drafts related reports.
• Investigates zoning and ordinance violations, prepares formal documentation, and collaborates with Corporation Counsel for resolution.
• Provides technical assistance and educates the public, developers, and municipal officials on land use and wastewater regulations.
• Maintains accurate records, drafts legal notices and zoning documents, and compiles case chronologies.
• Reviews and recommends updates to ordinances, procedures, and forms to improve administration of regulations.
• Stays current with legal and technical developments through training and inter‑agency collaboration.
• Conducts wetland determinations and soil suitability assessments for Private On‑site Wastewater Treatment System (POWTS) siting and inspections.
• Issues sanitary permits, inventories all POWTS within the County, and manages the maintenance tracking program.
• Issues citations for violations of County ordinances and Wisconsin Administrative Code related to wastewater systems.
• Critical Thinking: Analyzes site and application data to determine regulatory compliance and recommend enforcement actions.
• Communication: Explains complex regulatory requirements to varied audiences; drafts clear reports, notices, and correspondence.
• Problem Solving: Resolves compliance issues using policy interpretation and investigative skills.
• Technical Proficiency: Interprets construction drawings, maps, surveys, and uses Geographic Information System (GIS) and office software applications.
• Collaboration: Coordinates with municipal officials, developers, and state agencies to align enforcement and planning goals.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Applies zoning, floodplain, and sanitation regulations accurately and consistently.
• Independence: Prioritizes and manages workload with minimal supervision in both office and field settings.

Required Education & Experience

• Bachelor of Science degree in Urban or Regional Planning, Natural Resources, Geography, Landscape Architecture, or Public Administration.
• At least two (2) years of progressive, relevant work experience.
• Valid driver’s license.
• WI Private On‑site Wastewater Treatment System (POWTS) Inspector certification within six (6) months of employment.
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.

Preferred Education & Experience

• WI Certified Soil Tester credential within one (1) year of employment.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements

Work is divided between office (approximately 75% for zoning, 25% for sanitary tasks) and field settings (25% zoning, 75% sanitary). Office work involves prolonged sitting, computer use, and phone communication. Fieldwork includes driving, site inspections in varied weather and terrain, lifting up to 70 lbs (e.g., septic covers), and activities such as climbing, stooping, and crouching. Exposure to natural hazards (e.g., poison ivy), soil cave‑ins, and mechanical risks is possible, mitigated by personal protective equipment and safety practices.

Emergency Response Statement

In an effort to provide for continuity of County government and to cope with the problems of the emergency, you may be required to work during a proclaimed state of emergency, consistent with Sec. 323.14, Wis. Stats. and County emergency management plans and programs.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Door County is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.

Disclaimer

The above is intended to describe the general content of the requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.

Questions About the Position or Hiring Process?

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Application Information

Applicants are encouraged to submit a cover letter describing their interest in the position and career goals. If you require a reasonable accommodation during any part of the application or selection process due to a disability, please notify Human Resources.

What to Expect:

Application Timeline

• Position is open until filled—apply today.
• Application materials may be reviewed as they are received.

Selection Process

Applicants may be evaluated through one or more of the following:

• Review of application materials
• Structured interview(s)
• Skills tests, assessments, work samples, or other job‑related evaluation methods, as applicable

Pre‑Employment Requirements

Final candidate(s) may be subject to job‑related pre‑employment requirements, which may include:

• Reference check(s)
• Background check
• Job‑related pre‑employment screening
• License, certification, or credential verification

Compensation

The starting rate of pay will be based on the selected candidate’s qualifications, relevant experience, certifications, and demonstrated skills, consistent with the County's compensation plan. We are committed to equitable and competitive compensation practices, including consideration of internal equity.

Thank you for your interest in this position. We look forward to reviewing your application.