Planning, Zoning & Conservation Director

Oneida County is seeking a knowledgeable and collaborative Planning, Zoning, & Conservation Director to lead the administration of county land use and conservation programs. 

SUMMARY OF JOB DUTIES: This position provides overall leadership and professional oversight for the Planning & Zoning and Land & Water Conservation functions, ensuring programs are administered consistently and in accordance with County ordinances, state and federal regulations, and policy direction established by the County Board and its committees. The Director supervises professional, technical, and administrative staff and serves as the primary technical advisor to the Planning & Development Committee, Board of Adjustment, Conservation & UW–Extension Education Committee, and County Board on land use and conservation matters. Responsibilities include administering and enforcing ordinances related to zoning, shoreland and floodplain management, land divisions, private onsite wastewater systems (POWTS), and nonmetallic mining; reviewing development proposals and permits; coordinating with local municipalities and regulatory agencies; assisting with long-range planning efforts including Comprehensive Plan updates; and overseeing departmental budgeting, reporting, and public communication.

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS:  Qualified candidates must have a bachelor’s degree in Urban or Regional Planning, Natural Resources, Soil Science, Geography, Public Administration, or a closely related field, and at least five years professional experience in planning, zoning, land use regulation, or a related area. A minimum of three years of supervisory or leadership experience is required. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge of applicable local, state, and federal regulations and possess strong communication and organizational skills, including the ability to present technical information to elected officials and the public.  Private Onsite Waste Treatment System (POWTS) certification must be obtained within six months of hire, and WI Soil Tester certification within one year of hire. A valid Wisconsin driver’s license with good driving record is required. Equivalent combinations of education and experience that provide the required knowledge and abilities will be considered.

WORK HOURS:  This exempt, salaried leadership position works a minimum of 40 hours per week, mostly during weekdays, but some nights and weekends may be needed to attend meetings. 

WAGES AND BENEFITS:  Starting 2026 salary of $90,424 to $124,012, contingent on qualifications.  Position includes an excellent benefit package including affordable health insurance, enrollment in the Wisconsin Retirement System benefits and generous Paid Time Off (PTO) with the ability to carryover unused PTO hours into future years. 

HOW TO APPLY:  Complete job description and required Oneida County application is available at www.oneidacountywi.gov. Completed applications along with resume and transcripts should be emailed to jlueneburg@oneidacountywi.gov or mailed to Oneida County Labor Relations Employee Services, Courthouse, P.O. Box 400, Rhinelander, WI 54501.  Note: Applicants selected for an interview must be available on Monday, April 27, 2026.

Deadline to apply is Monday, April 20, 2026 at 8:30 a.m.

Oneida County is an Equal Opportunity Employer