County Conservation Director: Lead Resource Protection

Wisconsin Counties; Wisconsin; On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Wisconsin Counties seeks a senior leader to administer the Soil and Water Conservation Department, directing operations, budget planning, and grant management under state and federal regulations. The role provides executive leadership to the Land Conservation Committee, guiding policy enforcement and stakeholder coordination amid Wisconsin’s karst geology and regional landscape.

The position blends scientific assessment, regulatory enforcement, public engagement, and cross-agency collaboration

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resource Management or related field.
• Five years of experience in governmental program/budget management or related fields.
• Valid Wisconsin driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Administers department operations and ensures policy compliance.
• Supervises staff recruitment, training and performance management.
• Develops and manages a complex departmental budget and grants.
• Coordinates cross-agency partnerships and stakeholder networks.
• Directs scientific assessments and abatement strategies for environmental resources.
• Enforces county ordinances and represents the county in legal/legislative matters.
• Leads public engagement, meetings, and communications.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Public engagement

Regulatory enforcement

Analytical thinking

Collaboration

Grant management

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resource Management/Geology/Watershed Management/Soils or related field

Master’s degree (preferred)

Tools

CAD

GIS

Job description

Wisconsin Counties seeks a senior leader to administer the Soil and Water Conservation Department, directing operations, budget planning, and grant management under state and federal regulations. The role provides executive leadership to the Land Conservation Committee, guiding policy enforcement and stakeholder coordination amid Wisconsin’s karst geology and regional landscape.

The position blends scientific assessment, regulatory enforcement, public engagement, and cross-agency collaboration