Executive Director - Conservation

ANNOUNCEMENT & PURPOSE OF POSITION

The Pottawattamie County Conservation Board is seeking an Executive Director to join their dynamic team to help support their mission of providing resources and opportunities that encourage county residents and visitors to appreciate Pottawattamie County's unique natural resources, develop a connection to the natural environment, and foster responsible stewardship for future generations. The incumbent is responsible for planning and directing the operations of the department, and to assist the Conservation Board in providing effective management of county parks, properties, and conservation programs across Pottawattamie County. Interested applicants must provide a Resume and Cover Letter to be considered.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

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.

Develop short- and long-term operation plans for recreation areas, conservation areas and park facilities to achieve the goals of the Conservation Board.

Assist in the preparation of the annual budget, provide estimated operation costs, and assist in submitting the budget to the Conservation Board and Board of Supervisors for approval.

Prepare grant applications and maintain and submit records required to ensure continued funding.

Perform 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, representing the Board at speaking engagements and interacting with the general public.

Manage the research and development of parks, recreation 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 to the Conservation Board and assist the President in the functions of the meeting as required.

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

Perform other duties as directed or as the situation dictates.

ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE AND ABILITY

Thorough knowledge of the principles, practices and objectives of public parks, recreation, and conservation area administration.

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, recreation 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 perform basic mathematical calculations, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

Working knowledge and skill in the use of computers and software programs including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).

Ability to understand and follow both oral and 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 departmental communications, documents, and correspondence.

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

ESSENTIAL EDUCATION, CERTIFICATION AND/OR LICENSES

Bachelor’s degree in Park Management, Natural Science, Natural Resources or a related field is preferred.

Obtain American Heart Association CPR / First Aid certification within 1 year of hire.

Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license at the time of hire.

APPLICATION LINK and COUNTY WEBSITE

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/pottcounty/jobs/4454608/executive-director-conservation

https://pottcounty-ia.gov/