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.
Essential Duties & 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.
Key Competencies & Skills
- 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.
Required Education & Experience
- 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.
Preferred Education & Experience
- WI Certified Soil Tester credential within one (1) year of employment.
Physical & Work Environment Requirements
Work is divided between office (approximately 75% for zoning, 25% for sanitary tasks) and field settings (25% zoning, 75% sanitary). Office work involves prolonged sitting, computer use, and phone communication. Fieldwork includes driving, site inspections in varied weather and terrain, lifting up to 70 lbs (e.g., septic covers), and activities such as climbing, stooping, and crouching. Exposure to natural hazards (e.g., poison ivy), soil cave-ins, and mechanical risks is possible, mitigated by PPE and safety practices.
Emergency Response Statement
In an effort to provide for continuity of County government and to cope with the problems of the emergency, you may be required to work during a proclaimed state of emergency, consistent with Sec. 323.14, Wis. Stats. and County emergency management plans and programs.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Door County is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.
Disclaimer
The above is intended to describe the general content of the requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.