Permitting Program Manager (Apply)

Permitting - Program Manager.pdf

Salary Range: $56,000 - $80,000; starting salary is dependent on qualifications 

About the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District

The Minnehaha Creek Watershed District (MCWD) is a local unit of government responsible for managing and protecting the water resources within the 178 square miles that drain into the Minnehaha Creek and ultimately the Mississippi River. Over the past 50 years, the MCWD has implemented over 70 projects, conserved and restored over 700 acres of land, and implemented countless partnerships in an effort to protect some of our state’s most iconic resources. 

MCWD believes that clean water and a healthy natural environment are essential ingredients in creating vibrant, sustainable communities. The lakes, streams, wetlands, and green space that make up the MCWD landscape create a sense of place that provides a local identity, adds economic value and increases well-being. This belief is core to our mission of working with public and private partners to protect and improve land and water for generations to come.

MCWD is looking forward to the next decade as we continue to implement our vision through our newly adopted Watershed Management Plan. With its driven staff, strong Board of Managers, and growing partnerships, MCWD is poised for continued success.

MCWD has an annual budget of $12 million and employs a dedicated professional staff of 24 who work on natural resource planning, project development, land conservation, land use policy, water quality monitoring, permitting, education and communication.

MCWD offers competitive compensation, excellent benefits, flexible work policies, tuition reimbursement, professional development, opportunities for growth, and a collaborative work environment. As a result you will find a culture that supports staff coordination, innovation and execution, with the purpose of improving the MCWD’s delivery of service to its constituents.

Position Description/Summary of Position

The Permitting Program’s purpose is to protect natural resources from degradation associated with land use change. The Permitting Program Manager will oversee the implementation of the District’s Permitting program which manages a $600,000 annual budget and oversees a staff of five (5). The Permitting Program Manager will direct workflow, manage workload, and innovate new policies and procedures to improve program efficiency and effectiveness. This position will identify and build new public and private partnerships with stakeholders to achieve natural resource benefits beyond regulation alone. This position will also provide ongoing leadership, management, and professional development for Permitting staff, fostering a high performing team environment.

This position is right for a skilled natural resource professional with a passion for protecting and restoring the environment. The ideal candidate will have thorough knowledge on state rules and statues governing land use and water resource management and protection; general knowledge of land use planning; ability to provide superior customer service; and is able to create a working environment to motivate and develop the skills and abilities of assigned personnel.

Qualifications for the position include a Bachelor’s degree in natural resources or related field and a minimum of five (5) years of professional experience in natural resources, natural resource compliance, planning, management, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

To apply, please email a cover letter, resume and application form to admin@minnehahacreek.org. For questions about the job duties please contact James Wisker at 952-641-4509 or jwisker@minnehahacreek.org.