Under the direction of the Assistant Zoning Administrator, the Water Resources Planner protects the County’s natural resources, implements procedures related to ordinances, permits, or rules regarding Wetlands Conservation Act, shoreland, zoning, floodplain and erosion control regulations. This position conducts a review of building permits to ensure that ordinance requirements are being met prior to building permits being issued.

This position is located on-site at the Government Center in Elk River, MN, however will also require occasional work in the field. Our regular business hours are Monday - Friday 8:00am - 4:30pm, though the department provides staff with flexibility in effort to strive for a desired work/life balance. 

Develops and implements procedures for administration of the Wetland Conservation Act (WCA) Regulations, evaluates proposed projects that may impact wetland. Conducts inspections and coordinates the investigation, documentation, follow-up, and resolution of violations related to the Wetland Conservation Act by working with staff from the Department of Natural Resources, Board of Water and Soil Resources, US Army Core of Engineers and the local Soil and Water Conservation District.

Advises on ordinance amendments and policy changes. Implements procedures for administration and enforcement of the County Shoreland, Floodplain, Mississippi & Rum Scenic and Recreational Ordinances, including meeting with landowners, conducting inspections and approving permits in coordination with building division.

Assists County Floodplain Manager in administering the FEMA Floodplain program for the County, including helping residents with applications for Letters of Map Amendments (LOMA's) or Letters of Map Revisions (LOMR's). This includes reviewing surveys, Flood Insurance Rate Maps, and FEMA Flood Insurance Study Report.

Responds to complaints regarding wetland, shoreland and floodplain impacts. Conduct inspections of properties where violations are reported and follow through the process of working with property owner to achieve compliance. Prepares and maintains documentation for and work with the County Attorney's office to proceed with legal action on violation cases and testify in court where compliance has not been achieved from the property owner.

Provide GIS analysis and statistics for internal use in coordination with projects.

Coordinates and develops environmental education programs and materials for the public and develops presentations for the townships, lake associations, schools and other local community groups.

Comprehensively reviews all building and land use permits for compliance with Shoreland, Wetland and floodplain ordinances and State Rules. Develop and maintain database information to track and monitor progress of permits.

Represents the department as an Advisory Committee member on the One Watershed One Plan water planning groups. Advise planning partners on local water issues to develop strategies and implementation measures to improve water resources and possible grant funding opportunity for the County.

Review and coordinate land use applications for variances, conditional/interim use permits, subdivisions that have a direct connection to water resources. Attend public hearings to represent staff reports with recommendations to advisory commissions, and the County Board.

Serve as the County Agricultural Inspector and perform duties as mandated in the State’s noxious weed and seed laws.

Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Studies, Physical Science, Biological Science or related field; AND

Three years environmental work experience.

An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Previous work experience in government pertaining to environmental permitting, education and enforcement is preferred.

A valid Minnesota Driver’s License is required.

Certification required to obtain within one year of hire:

• University of MN, Certified Erosion Control Inspector