Sarasota COUNTY – Environmental Permitting Manager; Manager II Sarasota County Government

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.

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:

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

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.

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.

Please note that these are not requirements but bonuses for your consideration.

• Strong knowledge of environmental…