Summary
Whatcom County seeks an experienced professional to direct and coordinate key environmental programs within the Natural Resources Division of the Public Works Department. The manager will be responsible for overseeing the water quality, salmon recovery, marine resources, and noxious weed control programs. The manager will create strategic partnerships within and between County departments with other governmental agencies and diverse groups of community stakeholders to implement the County’s environmental policies.
POSITION OVERVIEW
Whatcom County is at the forefront of many current and emerging environmental issues including water supply and quality, salmon recovery, marine resources, invasive species, and floodplain management all of which are under the overarching influence of our changing climate. The Natural Resources Division in the Public Works Department has been designated to take the lead on many of these issues that are of great importance to the community. The Division has grown significantly over the past several years to address these challenges and is expected to continue to grow over the next few years. The Natural Resources Division consists of a diverse group of professionals with backgrounds in biology, ecology, geology, hydrology, and environmental science that work together to address these integrated issues. The Environmental Programs Manager will lead and inspire this group of talented individuals to develop strategies to address these important challenges by creating and maintaining strong relationships with other county departments, governmental agencies, and community groups in an open and transparent manner that is consistent with policy direction of our elected officials.
This position is open until filled, with a first priority review date of October 27. 2024. Applications received before this date will receive priority review.
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Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Physical, Biological, Environmental Science, Environmental Planning, Civil Engineering, or a related technical or scientific field.
- Five or more years of experience in progressively more responsible roles managing programs and coordinating among officials and stakeholders and two years of supervisory experience.
- Demonstrated skill in working with diverse groups and agencies to gain consensus on important environmental science and public policy issues.
At its sole discretion, Whatcom County may consider combinations of education, experience, certifications, and training in lieu of specifically required qualifications contained herein.
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE
The ideal candidate will be a motivated leader on environmental and natural resources issues impacting the Whatcom County area. The candidate will be familiar with public processes and possess thorough knowledge of relevant federal, state and local policies, codes, and regulations to manage and strategically plan for addressing evolving environmental issues.