Land Use Services Director

Job Summary

The Land Use Services Director is responsible for the overall administration, leadership, and strategic direction of the Land Use Services Department. This position manages departmental personnel, programs, budgets, and regulatory functions related to planning, zoning, land use, private onsite treatment systems (POWTs) and resource management.

• 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.
• Strategic Leadership: Develops long-range goals and aligns departmental operations with County planning and legal priorities.
• Legal Acumen: Applies legal principles and practices in land use, zoning, and municipal governance.
• Analytical Reasoning: Evaluates regulatory requirements, case law, and planning data to inform decisions.
• Public Communication: Engages with diverse stakeholders through meetings, presentations, and written correspondence.
• Collaboration: Fosters cooperative relationships with local governments, state agencies, and internal departments.
• Organizational Management: Directs staffing, budgeting, and operational procedures with attention to performance and compliance.
• Policy Interpretation: Advises on the application and enforcement of ordinances, regulations, and policies.
• Problem Solving: Navigates complex planning challenges with professionalism and initiative.

• 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

• 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.

Work is primarily performed in an office setting with frequent use of computers and communication tools. Regular attendance at meetings inside and outside County facilities is required. Over 75% of the workday is spent seated and engaged in verbal or written communication. Occasional walking or standing may occur during field visits or public events. Minimal physical effort is required.

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…