Code Administrator

WCA: Wisconsin Counties Association; Wisconsin; On-site; USD 59,000 - 73,000; Full time

Job summary

Door County Government seeks a Land Use Services professional to enforce zoning, floodplain management, land divisions, and private wastewater systems through technical reviews, inspections, and public education.

The role combines field and office work, demanding analytical thinking, regulatory knowledge, GIS proficiency, and the ability to explain complex requirements to diverse audiences.

Join a team focused on environmental stewardship and responsible development for the Door Peninsula.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in planning, natural resources, geography, or related field.
• Minimum 2 years of relevant work experience.
• Valid driver's license and POWTS inspector certification within 6 months.
• Equivalent combinations considered.

Responsibilities

• Conducts pre-application consultations and technical reviews for zoning and sanitary permits; evaluates compliance and approves/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.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Regulatory knowledge

GIS

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Urban/Regional Planning or related field

Tools

GIS

Job description

Job Description

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.

Application Deadline: 2026-09-01

Job Type: County

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.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• 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.

Key Competencies & Skills

• 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 PPE 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?

Contact Door County Human Resources

[e-mail]

Monday-Thursday: 7:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Friday: 7:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m.

Job Details

Job Function: Other

Pay Type: Salary

Education Level: Bachelor’s Degree

Hiring Min Rate: 66,102.40 USD