Public Lands Manager

Under the general direction of the Community Development Director, the Public Lands Manager provides strategic leadership, management, and policy direction for Clear Creek County's Public Lands Department, guiding the County's long-term vision for conservation, recreation, and stewardship of the County's public lands.

• Develop and implement comprehensive plans, policies, projects, and programs that align with the County's strategic goals, balancing natural and cultural resource protection, public access, and community benefit.
• Ensure alignment between trail systems, trailhead and facility infrastructure, natural and cultural resource management, and recreational programs to deliver a cohesive, high-quality public lands system.
• Direct administrative and supervisory work to conserve, maintain, and enhance the resources and assets of Clear Creek County Open Space and other public lands.
• Direct and oversee implementation of department plans, projects, budgets, and operations.

Directly supervises assigned staff and provides functional and operational oversight of assigned programs, including Trails and Recreation, Open Space, Special Projects, and Water Resources.

Clear Creek County offers a comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees, which may include retirement benefits, medical, dental, and vision coverage; wellness programs; county-paid life and disability insurance; flexible spending and health savings account options; paid time off, sick leave, and holidays;
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) resources; telehealth services; and voluntary supplemental benefit offerings.

Benefit eligibility is based on position and scheduled hours; not all positions qualify for the full benefits package.

Sworn Sheriff's Office Positions Only:
Enhanced retirement benefits through FPPA (Fire & Police Pension Association) are available.

• Prepare and submit the Department's annual budget in coordination with the Division Director.
• Establish priorities and develop, implement, and coordinate strategic and operational work plans and policies related to public lands, in coordination with the Division Director.
• Develop and recommend policies, ordinances, and strategic initiatives to the County Manager and Board of County Commissioners related to public land conservation, recreation, and resource management.
• Evaluate emerging recreational and natural resource management trends, environmental considerations, and community needs to guide long‑term decision‑making related to public lands.
• Oversee development and implementation of system‑wide standards, including trail design guidelines, trailhead and facility standards, and maintenance service levels. The development of guidelines and regulations of use.
• Identify, pursue, administer, and report on grants and other external funding opportunities supporting public lands, conservation, recreation, trails, natural resources, and related projects.
• Coordinate and represent the department's work with other internal divisions, the Open Space Commission, and the Board of County Commissioners (BoCC).
• Serve as Staff Liaison to the Open Space Commission and support the Open Space Coordinator.
• Build and maintain relationships with external public land management stakeholders, including municipal, state, and federal agencies, nonprofit partners, and community groups.
• Facilitate public engagement and stakeholder communication on public lands policies, projects, recreational uses, closures, and resource‑management decisions; respond professionally to competing interests and community concerns.
• Develop and provide presentations and recommendations to elected officials and community members on public lands initiatives, programs,…