Executive Director

Job Summary

The Executive Director is responsible for planning and directing the operations of the Conservation Department, and to assist the Conservation Board in providing effective management of county parks, properties, and conservation programs across Marion County. Performs duties as defined by Section 350 of the Code of Iowa. Coordinates, plans, and administers conservation and recreation programs in the county under the directive of the Conservation Board. Performs related work as required.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities 

The following duties are typical for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all inclusive.

Manage the daily operations, personnel, finances, maintenance and public relations of the Conservation Department; schedules, directs, hires, performs disciplinary action, and trains employees; assigns priorities, and reviews work completed; oversees, plans and coordinates assigned department related projects and events.

Develops short and long term operation plans for recreational areas, conservation areas and park facilities to achieve the goals of the conservation Board.

Prepares an annual budget for the department, including estimated operational costs for submitting to the Conservation Board. Presents annual budget request to the Marion County Board of Supervisors.

Prepares grant applications and maintains and submits records required to ensure continued funding.

Performs public relations functions including, but not limited to working/partnering with other conservation groups and governmental agencies, directing the preparation of media releases, serving as the Board's representative on various committees, both local and statewide, representing the Board at speaking engagements and interacting with the general public.

Manage the research and development of parks, recreational areas and conservation areas, including preparing proposals, ordinances, billing structures, record keeping systems and related items.

Conduct regular visits to the county parks, properties and facilities to ensure and assist in the efficient provision of services to the public and adherence to Conservation Board policies and procedures.

Manage the preparation of all construction plans and specifications for conservation projects.

Review current Conservation Board policies and procedures and submit proposed revisions, recommendations, and or suggestions for approval.

Prepare an agenda for each regular meeting of the Conservation Board and assist the President in the function of the meeting as required.

Regularly communicate with the Conservation Board President outside of board meetings to receive instructions and review departmental activities.

Other duties, as directed or as the situation dictates.

Minimum Education and Experience Required to Perform Essential Functions

Bachelor's degree in the natural resources field from an accredited college/university.

5-years of natural resource management and/or program administration preferred.

Knowledge of conservation principles and practices, able to work independently.

Considerable knowledge of and ability to utilize supervisory and management techniques.

Knowledge of the methods and equipment utilized in the maintenance, construction and repair of grounds, facilities and equipment.

Knowledge of horticulture, landscape architecture and engineering as it applies to planting, maintaining and operating parks, recreational areas and conservation areas.

Knowledge of and ability to prepare applications for grant programs.

Ability to prepare clear, concise and organized business communications, reports, records, cost estimates and correspondence.

Ability to understand and follow both oral and written instructions.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the general public, government officials, supervisors and employees.

Ability to maintain the confidentiality of all department communications, documents and correspondence.

Ability to plan and organize a personal work schedule, set priorities and meet deadlines.

Ability to manage and lead multiple projects simultaneously.

Certificates and Licenses

Must posses a valid Iowa Drivers License.

Must acquire S130/S190 prescribed wildland fire certification within one (1) year of employment.