Career Center

The Opportunity

The Environmental Sustainability Director is uniquely positioned to shape the future of Fort Collins’ healthy and sustainable environment. The Director provides leadership to the development and implementation of the policies, programs, and services that equitably advance the Council’s and the community’s priorities on sustainability, air quality, climate, waste reduction, community engagement, meaningful performance measurement, and supporting the organization in leading by example to achieve its own sustainability goals. The Director is responsible for environmental sustainability strategic planning and reporting and effectively leads the preparation of short-term and long-term plans. The Environmental Sustainability Director leads the department-wide view of workload management to ensure team members can successfully provide services to the community and organization. The Director develops and manages the department’s biennial budget and coordinates the development and implementation of specific, measurable outcomes associated with the City’s Budgeting for Outcomes process and City Council Work Plan.

With a demonstrated commitment to employee well-being and thoughtful financial and environmental stewardship, the Environmental Sustainability Director leads and supports a diverse staff of passionate and talented employees. This position directly manages the leadership team in Environmental Services, which includes three managers and one administrative support staff member. Given the transition underway in the Department, the new Director will have the opportunity to hire several of its leadership positions in early 2024.

The Environmental Sustainability Director is deeply committed to environmental stewardship, sustainability, and resilience. The successful candidate exemplifies servant leadership, embraces our commitment to equity and inclusion, and supports our triple-bottom-line approach by assessing economic, environmental, and social impacts to drive decisions. The Environmental Sustainability Director brings their own set of diverse experiences that add value and perspective while promoting equitable solutions that address our ambitious community goals. Through a balanced approach, the Environmental Sustainability Director supports innovation while creating a safe, healthy, and supportive culture. The ideal candidate is a highly effective leader known for quickly building trust and rapport while empowering employees.

Compensation and Benefits

The City of Fort Collins offers a competitive comprehensive benefits package, including a market salary commensurate with education and experience. The annual salary range is: $93,767 - $156,272, and the anticipated hiring range is $116,000 - $144,000; salaries are paid biweekly. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, life, and short- and long-term disability insurance. Additionally, the City of Fort Collins offers additional benefits, including 401(a) and a 457 deferred compensation plan with an employer contribution, an optional Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Accounts, a significant Wellness program, and relocation assistance for the successful out-of-area finalist.

How to Apply

Applications will be accepted electronically by Raftelis at jobs.crelate.com. Applicants complete a brief online form and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. For full consideration, please apply by Monday, October 9, 2023.

Education and Experience

At least five years of progressively responsible environmental sustainability-related experience and a bachelor’s degree in engineering, ecology, environmental planning, natural resources management, sustainability, environmental, or a related field. Advanced knowledge of natural resources management and environmental sustainability is essential, as is a demonstrated cultural competency to effectively collaborate and develop meaningful relationships with people of diverse identities, perspectives, and cultural backgrounds. Prior policy and program development experience is highly desired. Knowledge of the private sector and/or public-private partnerships is beneficial. A master’s degree in natural resources management, environmental science, or environmental management is encouraged. An equivalent combination of experience and education that enables success as the Environmental Sustainability Director will be considered.

Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they can perform every job description task. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may come from a less traditional background. The City may consider an equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications.

About City of Fort Collins

Raftelis provides executive search, facilitation and strategic planning, and organizational assessment and optimization to local governments and nonprofit organizations nationwide.

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