Environmental Permitting Manager (Manager II)

Environmental Permitting Manager (Manager II)

Start here. Grow here. Stay here.

Are you ready to lead impactful environmental initiatives in one of Florida's most unique natural landscapes? As the Environmental Permitting Manager (Manager II) within Planning and Development Services, Environmental Protection Division, you'll guide a dedicated team responsible for implementing the Comprehensive Plan and County Code while balancing environmental stewardship with community growth. In this leadership role, you'll oversee environmental permitting and compliance activities, support ordinance development, and help shape policies that protect Sarasota County's natural resources for generations to come.

We're looking for an experienced professional who brings strong leadership skills, regulatory knowledge, and a passion for environmental protection. You'll have the opportunity to mentor staff, manage budgets and performance measures, serve as a trusted technical resource, and contribute to meaningful, countywide initiatives. If you're motivated to make a difference, thrive in a collaborative environment, and are ready to take the next step in your career, we encourage you to apply today and join a team committed to responsible growth and environmental excellence.

About the Position

In this role, you will lead the Environmental Permitting team, overseeing implementation of the Comprehensive Plan and County Code requirements while balancing environmental protection with community needs.

Job responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

Comprehensive Plan & Environmental Protection

• Lead implementation of environmental policies within the Comprehensive Plan and County Code.
• Oversee environmental permitting and reviews (UDC, building, tree protection, coastal setback, and more).
• Ensure consistent application of environmental standards and regulatory requirements.
• Direct field inspections related to native habitats and protected species.
• Collaborate with County departments, municipalities, and state/federal agencies on permitting and compliance.
• Review and advance permits, recommendations, and ordinance updates for County Commission consideration.
• Oversee compliance monitoring, resolve complex permitting issues, and maintain tracking/reporting systems.
• Prepare reports, support Board assignments, and manage special projects.

Administration & Leadership

• Provide leadership, set priorities, and delegate work to Environmental Permitting staff.
• Hire, train, mentor, and evaluate team members.
• Oversee division budget, revenues, expenditures, and fee recommendations.
• Ensure payroll, personnel actions, and health and safety standards are properly managed.
• Track performance measures and support business and communication planning.

Facilitation & Special Projects

• Serve as an internal environmental consultant and technical resource.
• Partner with cross-functional County teams on project development.
• Provide technical guidance to the public on environmental regulations and compliance.
• Lead and support special projects across the organization.
• Oversee audit activities, risk mitigation efforts, and implementation of internal controls.

About the Schedule

Work Hours:

• Full-time, 40 hours per week.
• Typical Schedule: Monday - Friday, 08:00 a.m. to 05:00 p.m.

As a reminder, all county employees are considered essential and must be prepared to protect and support the community and its citizens. Each employee, without exception, will have a duty assignment and be required to work during a disaster or declared emergency.

About You

To be considered for this role, you must have the following:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university required in a specific field of endeavor with 4+ years of related work experience.
• OR: Associate's degree from an accredited college or university and 6+ years of related work experience.
• OR: 8+ years of related work experience may substitute for the college degree.
• 2+ years of supervisory experience required.
• Valid Florida driver's license by date of hire.

The ideal candidate has the following knowledge, skills, and/or abilities:

• Strong knowledge of environmental regulations, ecosystems, and southwest Florida habitats.
• Understanding of management practices, budgeting, and the Sarasota County Comprehensive Plan.
• Ability to interpret and apply policies, regulations, and scientific information.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills with the ability to build positive working relationships.
• Organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities independently using standard computer applications.
• Demonstrated expertise in preparing and editing clear, well-organized written materials that effectively translate technical and regulatory information into accessible language suitable for public, stakeholder, and executive audiences.

Subject to Passing Substance Screening: This position is subject to passing a pre-employment substance screening. An applicant who fails to pass a required drug screening test shall be disqualified from employment for a period of five years.

Physical Demands: Employees in this role must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 lbs. Employees can use handling devices (dolly, cart, etc.) or work with another team member to lift and/or move excessive poundage of 50-plus pounds.

Starting Pay Range: $77,105.60 - $83,605.60, based on experience.