Land Use Services Director

County of Door • Sturgeon Bay, WI

5d • $93,558 • Hybrid

About The Position

Door County is seeking a Land Use Services Director to oversee the overall administration, leadership, and strategic direction of the Land Use Services Department. This role involves managing departmental personnel, programs, budgets, and regulatory functions related to planning, zoning, land use, private onsite treatment systems (POWTs), and resource management. The department is responsible for zoning administration, land use planning, environmental protection, and compliance with regulations. It processes various permit and request types, supports decision-making through public hearings, and administers the POWTS program to protect water resources. Additionally, the department develops and updates plans, maintains ordinances, and provides technical assistance to various stakeholders. The goal is to promote responsible development, environmental stewardship, and sound land use practices across Door County.

Requirements

• Graduate of an accredited college or university with a Master’s Degree in Urban or Regional Planning, Landscape Architecture, Geography, Public Administration, Natural Resource Management, or related field; or BA/BS degree plus four (4) years work experience in planning-related field.
• At least five (5) years of progressive work experience in community planning, community development, or related field.
• At least three (3) years of supervisory experience in a legal, planning, or governmental setting.
• Valid driver’s license.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in public sector planning or land use administration.
• Knowledge of Wisconsin-specific planning and zoning statutes.
• Familiarity with GIS, document management systems, or grant administration tools.

Responsibilities

• Directs all functions of the Land Use Services Department, including planning, zoning, conservation, and mapping services; sets department priorities and ensures compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Supervises departmental staff in implementing programs, projects, and plans; conducts performance evaluations and ensures ongoing staff development.
• Coordinates and administers the development of comprehensive, farmland preservation, and other land-related plans in collaboration with planning staff and external entities.
• Oversees preparation and monitoring of the department’s annual operating budget; ensures fiscal accountability and alignment with County goals.
• Represents the County at public meetings, and intergovernmental forums; communicates complex technical and legal information to diverse audiences.
• Develops, implements, and reviews departmental policies and procedures in coordination with the County Administrator and the Resource Planning Committee.
• Prepares and submits grant applications and other funding proposals to support land use initiatives.
• Monitors legislative and regulatory developments affecting planning, zoning, and land use; evaluates impacts and recommends appropriate County responses.
• Participates in recruitment, hiring, and onboarding of department personnel in partnership with Human Resources.
• Performs other duties as assigned, including special projects and organizational initiatives that advance the County’s strategic objectives.

Benefits

• The job description does not explicitly list benefits, but mentions that Door County is a premier place to live, work, and visit and provides essential services.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager