Pope/Douglas Solid Waste Management (PDSWM) is seeking an experienced, visionary Executive Director to lead a multi-faceted, integrated solid waste management system serving a two-county joint powers board. The system includes a waste-to-energy plant, material recovery facility, ash landfill and processing, compost facility, and environmental center (household hazardous waste, recycling, and community education programs).

Position summary

The Executive Director administers all PDSWM facilities and programs, provides leadership and direction to professional and technical staff (50+ employees), and ensures compliance with MPCA, EPA, and other regulatory requirements. The Director works closely with the Board of Directors to develop policy, manage finances, guide strategic growth, and maintain strong relationships with counties, haulers, legislators, and community partners.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and manage operations of the waste-to-energy, material recovery facility, environmental center, landfill, ash processing, compost facility, and related programs through subordinate managers.
• Develop and administer operating and capital budgets; oversee financial management, reporting, and grant funding.
• Provide timely, accurate information and recommendations to the Board; implement Board decisions and directives.
• Direct strategic planning, regulatory compliance, and major construction and capital projects.
• Recruit, develop, and lead staff; ensure effective supervision, training, and performance management.

Knowledge, skills, and abilities

• Strong knowledge of integrated solid waste systems, including combustion, recycling, landfilling, composting, and hazardous waste.
• Proven ability in fiscal management, personnel management, and organizational leadership.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to build effective relationships with boards, staff, agencies, and stakeholders.
• Ability to analyze complex issues, make sound decisions, and implement new methods and technologies.

Compensation and schedule

• Salary range: $62.466 – $68.104 per hour; exempt.
• Typical schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., with additional hours as needed for meetings and events.

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or at least four years of related experience, including at least one year as a Department Head of an Environmental Resources Department or MSW processing facility.
• Demonstrated experience in solid waste management, public sector or utility-type operations, or related fields.
• Valid class D driver’s license

About Pope Douglas Solid Waste Management

Pope/Douglas Solid Waste Management (PDSWM) is a joint powers partnership between Pope and Douglas Counties, created in 1983 to manage the solid waste stream generated in both counties. PDSWM operates a fully integrated system that includes a waste-to-energy facility, materials recovery facility, landfill, household hazardous waste facility, recycling drop center, organics recycling programs, and extensive education and outreach services. As an employer, PDSWM offers mission driven work focused on environmental protection, resource recovery, and community service, providing waste and recycling solutions for both residents and businesses. The organization employs a diverse team of operational, technical, and professional staff who run 24/7 industrial facilities, manage specialized recycling and organics programs, and deliver high-quality customer service and public education across the region.

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