Code Administrator

County of Door•Sturgeon Bay, WI

33d

About The Position

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.

Requirements

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.
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.

Nice To Haves

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

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.