Environmental Programs Inspector

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A full-time Environmental Programs Inspectorposition is available in the Environmental, Planning & Zoning Department. This position performs entry- to intermediate-level professional work supporting the management, maintenance, and regulatory compliance of County drainage systems. Serves as the primary liaison for landowners by responding to inquiries and coordinating drainage-related activities. Conducts system inspections, assists with project coordination, and supports the County Drainage Authority to ensure work meets Federal, State, and local standards.

This position investigates complaints and conducts on-site inspections of the County drainage system and Department-permitted projects to identify ordinance violations and enforce compliance with county codes and regulations. Inspections are performed using drone technology or through direct, on-foot field assessments. Work is performed under the limited supervision of the Environmental Programs Administrator.

Essential Functions:

• Serve as the first point of contact for the department by answering calls, assisting visitors, and directing inquiries to appropriate staff while providing professional customer service.
• Assist with zoning permit inspections by conducting site visits, documenting results, and updating permit databases to ensure ordinance compliance.
• Assist landowners with drainage system inquiries, petitions, and maintenance requests, including coordinating site visits and explaining procedures.
• Support drainage system maintenance and construction projects.
• Assist with drainage committee operations and support development and implementation of annual work plans for vegetation management, inspections, and drainage system maintenance.
• Maintain records, databases, and documentation related to ditch systems, inspections, projects, and contractor activities.
• Acts as the county agriculture inspector; tests and confirms results of those wishing to become licensed as a pesticide applicator.
• Coordinate communication between County staff, contractors, engineers, regulatory agencies, and other stakeholders and prepare informational materials related to drainage system management.
• Investigate complaints and perform site inspections to identify potential ordinance violations and ensure compliance with county codes and regulations.
• Document violations, determine corrective actions, conduct follow-up inspections, maintain enforcement records, and assist in preparing cases when necessary.
• Educate property owners and the public on code requirements and compliance practices.
• Inspect construction sites and monitor stormwater BMP implementation to ensure compliance with erosion control, stormwater regulations, SWPPP, and NPDES requirements.
• Maintain stormwater compliance records and coordinate corrective actions when violations occur.
• Performs field inspections of local hydrologic monitoring stations, verifies operational status of water-level gauges, records and logs stage measurements with precision, and prepares standardized periodic reports detailing site conditions and observed water-level data.
• Demonstrate strong oral and written communication, organizational, and presentation skills.
• Performs the mental and physical demands of the job.
• Attends work during regularly scheduled hours.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Education and Experience:

Associate degree in water resource management, environmental studies, urban studies, planning, natural resources, conservation, agriculture, biology, or related field; OR,

High School Diploma and 1 year experience working in agriculture, natural resources, conservation, or planning & zoning; OR,

Equivalent combination of education and experience.

Minimum Qualifications:

1. Driver's License valid to drive in the State of Minnesota.

2. 1 year experience working in agriculture, natural resources, conservation, or planning & zoning.

Salary/Benefits: Starting wage is $30.73 per hour plus health insurance, life insurance, retirement plan, vacation/sick/holiday pay and many other voluntary benefits.

Salary range is $30.73 - $43.47 per hour.

Contact information:

Telephone:  - Fax:

Deadline: Open until filled. Reviewing applications August 21, 2026.