Conservation Executive Director

Woodbury County•Sioux City, IA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Under general direction of the Conservation Board, develops, directs and evaluates the administrative, recreational and educational services, operations and maintenance, capital development and improvement programs for the Board. Serves as Chief Administrative Officer. Supervises designated personnel. This position is under the direct authority of the County Conservation Board.

Requirements

Bachelor degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in park administration, fish and wildlife biology, or a related conservation field
Five (5) years administrative or management experience in parks or conservation programs
Ability to understand the natural resource and recreation needs of the community and formulate recommendations for the acquisition and development of public resource lands, facilities and programs to meet those needs
Knowledge of all policies, methods, procedures and regulations of the conservation board as well as state laws
Knowledge of material, methods and techniques utilized in construction and maintenance activities
Knowledge of the principles and practices of public and business administration, supervision and management technique
Thorough knowledge of current literature, trends, and development in the fields of conservation, parks and recreation
Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing
Ability to develop long range plans, organize work schedules and direct subordinates
Ability to maintain discipline and motivate staff
Knowledge of computer skills to effectively operate Microsoft Office and Arc View software
Ability to use tact in handling delicate and sensitive public relation problems
Ability to analyze and evaluate the opinions of the public and special interest groups
Ability to make financial determinations on budgets and expenditures
Skill necessary to objectively evaluate Board programs, operations and facilities; proficient organizational skills
Ability to handle stressful situations
Satisfactory driving record and possession of a valid Iowa Driver’s License
Basic First Aid and CPR certification
Candidate for hire must successfully pass a background check, a physical examination, vision, back screen, hearing screen/test and Iowa DOT drug screen prior to employment

Nice To Haves

Master degree in Public Administration or related field preferred
Law Enforcement degree not required but will honor it and IPERS for law enforcement if applicant is certified

Responsibilities

Be on call 24 hours per day to handle or consult on major problems and work a flexible schedule as needed
Coordinating, directing, and organizing the human, physical and financial resources of the department to efficiently and effectively accomplish the maintenance, improvement and development of county park and conservation areas and educational programs
Supervises management staff and exercises responsibility for all other department employees
Responsible for hiring and discipline of all departmental employees
Review and document employee performance in relation to County and department goals and expectations
Oversees enforcement of park rules, state and local laws and ordinances
Communicates effectively and tactfully with the public, both individually and in groups
Recommends appointment of department peace officers and cooperates with other law enforcement agencies
Develops, recommends, and manages annual department budgets in a fiscally responsible manner
Develops long-range plans and makes recommendations concerning acquisitions, development and purchases
Writes, coordinates and administers grants and supplemental funds to assist department programs
Maintains effective working relationships with staff; other county departments; local, state and federal agencies; and private organizations
Researches and prepares a variety of reports including an annual report of department activities
Verifies and approves all departmental payrolls, claims and expenditures
Prepares the agenda for each Board meeting and assists the President in the functions of the meeting
Maintains certifications and keeps current on trends and developments in areas of responsibility
Develops specifications, secures bids, and negotiates contracts
Develops and manages the natural resources of the department
Travel required for training and conference related to position of Director
Attendance is required
Performs various other duties relating to scope of responsibility as assigned by the County Conservation Board