Director of Soil & Water Conservation

COUNTY OF DOOR; Stevens Hill (WI); On-site; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

COUNTY OF DOOR seeks a seasoned administrator to lead the Soil and Water Conservation Department, protecting natural resources and ensuring compliance with regulations. The role provides executive leadership to the Land Conservation Committee, shaping budgets, policies, and stakeholder engagement.

The successful candidate will combine scientific insight with public administration, manage complex programs, and represent the county in interagency and community settings across Door County's karst

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resource Management, Geology, Watershed Management, Soils, or related field.
• Five or more years in governmental program and budget management, natural resource protection, or code enforcement.
• Valid Wisconsin driver’s license.
• Master’s degree preferred with additional leadership and public speaking experience.

Responsibilities

• Administers department operations and ensures policy implementation and regulatory compliance.
• Supervises staff, oversees recruitment, training, performance management, and development.
• Develops and manages a complex departmental budget with diverse revenue streams.
• Presents and manages grants and cost-share programs with reporting and compliance.
• Coordinates cross-agency partnerships and public-private networks.
• Conducts scientific assessments of soil, water, and land conditions; develops abatement strategies.
• Investigates land use violations and enforces County ordinances; advises LCC and regulators.
• Represents the County in legal proceedings and legislative discussions on conservation matters.
• Leads public engagement, including meetings, publications, and outreach.
• Maintains field equipment and facilities required for department services.
• Serves on state/regional committees to influence policy and advocate for conservation.
• Directs internal and external communications and public presentations.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical Thinking

Public Administration

Communication

Regulatory Enforcement

Collaboration

Grant Management

Technical Proficiency

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree

Tools

CAD

GIS

Job description

COUNTY OF DOOR seeks a seasoned administrator to lead the Soil and Water Conservation Department, protecting natural resources and ensuring compliance with regulations. The role provides executive leadership to the Land Conservation Committee, shaping budgets, policies, and stakeholder engagement.

The successful candidate will combine scientific insight with public administration, manage complex programs, and represent the county in interagency and community settings across Door County's karst