Executive Director

General Description:  This is a professional position. The person in this position performs simple and complex tasks to provide management direction and overall guidance to the operation of the department to assure continued service to the public. This person also performs simple and complex tasks to meet management objectives at all county conservation areas as necessary. This person is also responsible for the enforcement of the Code of Iowa and local regulations to protect facilities, resources, and the public.

 Organization: The Executive Director is the representative of the Conservation Board on a day to day basis. The incumbent reports to the Conservation Board and is responsible to them for carrying out policies and direction.  

Essential Functions:   Prepares the agenda for all meetings of the Conservation Board. Provides regular reports on field operations, staff activities, revenue, and expenses to the Conservation Board. Seeks out grant opportunities, completes grant applications, and manages and monitors all grant funds and ongoing grant projects. Regularly uses computer programs such as but not limited to Outlook, Word, Excel, Publisher, Power Point, and Access. Prepares an initial annual budget estimate and modifies it to meet conservation board goals. Prepares a working budget for Board approval based on funding appropriation. Employs, supervises and provides training, upon approval of the Conservation Board, for such positions, assistants and employees necessary for the efficient operation of the department. Makes or approves purchases necessary for the continued operation of the department. Enforces laws and regulations according to the policies of the Conservation Board. Collects fees from the public for the use of facilities and equipment, recording receipts and use of fee based services. Provides programs and/or information to individuals or groups upon request. Supervises the management and maintenance work of all facilities and/or areas. Monitors or supervises all construction or improvement projects. Supervises the provision of programs and opportunities offered. Provides for the safety of area visitors.  

Working Conditions:

Hazards

·Custodial chemicals

·Pesticides and herbicides

·Bio-hazards

·Light to heavy duty equipment

·Power tools (gas and electric) Environment

·Office, field work, shop work, and crowds.       

Physical Effort

·Minimal to arduous Fair Labor Standards Act

·Exempt Work Schedule

·Non standard work week, plus weekend and holiday work required.

·Overnight travel occasionally required

Ability to report for work on short notice  

Education, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities at Time of Hire:

· Bachelor’s degree with a concentration in the environmental or natural resource management field. Work experience in a related field for 4-6 years will be considered equivalent to a bachelor’s degree.

· Excellent communications skills, both verbal and written.

· Excellent computer program skills (Excel, Access, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook) preferred.

·Ability to perform and communicate in a tactful manner while under physical and social pressure.

·Building and facilities construction methods.

·Fisheries and wildlife habitat management practices.

· Supervise other professionals with diverse responsibilities.

·Duties require a considerable amount of physical activity. Incumbent must be able to walk, stand, kneel, crouch, reach, stoop, and climb to accomplish tasks.

·Ability to regularly lift 50 pounds, and occasionally lift and carry objects up to 75 pounds.

·Understands and accepts the chain of command.

·Work outdoors in extreme weather conditions.

·Operate park equipment including: Tractor, mowers, UTVs, snow blade, boat, sprayers, box scraper, etc.

·Ability to back up, park, and pull a large goose- neck trailer.  

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

·Government budgeting and accounting standards (generally accepted accounting procedures).

· Public bid letting procedures.

·Fair Labor Standards Act requirements as they pertain to the department.

·Americans with Disabilities Act requirements as they pertain to the department.

·CPR and basic first aid.

·Iowa Driver’s License

·Iowa Commercial Pesticide Applicator’s License – Category 3OT or the ability to obtain license.

·Establish and maintain an effective working relationship with other department staff.

·Establish and maintain an effective working relationship with other departments within the county.