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County Director Jobs in Cascade, IA (NOW HIRING)

Coordinates the Dubuque County Drug Box Exchange Program on behalf of Mercy One in collaboration with the Director of Pharmacy. * Provides education to ED staff on new or changing EMS practices ...

Coordinates the Dubuque County Drug Box Exchange Program on behalf of Mercy One in collaboration with the Director of Pharmacy. * Provides education to ED staff on new or changing EMS practices ...

Coordinates the Dubuque County Drug Box Exchange Program on behalf of Mercy One in collaboration with the Director of Pharmacy. * Provides education to ED staff on new or changing EMS practices ...

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County Director information

What is a county director?

County Directors are senior administrative officials responsible for overseeing the operations and management of county government departments and services. They coordinate various programs, supervise department heads, manage budgets, and ensure compliance with county policies and regulations. County Directors play a key role in implementing county board decisions and serving as a liaison between the public, staff, and elected officials. Their leadership helps ensure that county services are delivered efficiently and effectively to residents.

What are some common challenges county directors face when managing diverse teams across multiple departments?

County Directors often oversee various departments, each with unique goals and operational styles. A frequent challenge is ensuring effective communication and collaboration between these teams while aligning them with county-wide objectives. Balancing resource allocation, addressing conflicting priorities, and fostering a unified culture across departments are key aspects of the role. Successful County Directors typically leverage strong leadership, adaptability, and conflict resolution skills to navigate these complexities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a county director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a County Director, you need leadership experience, strategic planning skills, and a background in public administration or a related field, often with a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with government budgeting systems, policy analysis tools, and project management software is typically required. Exceptional communication, decision-making, and conflict resolution skills help build strong relationships with stakeholders and manage diverse teams effectively. These competencies ensure effective governance, efficient resource management, and the successful delivery of county services.

What is the difference between County Director vs County Manager?

AspectCounty DirectorCounty Manager
Required credentialsBachelor's or Master's in Public Administration, Political Science, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Public Administration, Business, or related fields
Work environmentGovernment offices, public sector agenciesLocal government, public sector organizations
Employer and industry usageUsed in county government structures, especially in certain states

The County Director and County Manager roles often overlap in responsibilities related to county operations. However, the County Director typically focuses on overseeing specific programs or departments within the county, while the County Manager handles broader administrative functions and policy implementation. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work in government settings, but their scope and focus can differ based on local government structures.

What cities near Cascade, IA are hiring for County Director jobs?

Cities near Cascade, IA with the most County Director job openings:

Infographic showing various County Director job openings in Cascade, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Dubuque County
 
Are you a visionary leader passionate about community growth, education, and public service? Iowa State University (ISU) Extension and Outreach of Dubuque County is seeking a County Director to serve as the local face and voice of our land-grant mission.

In this pivotal role, you will provide strategic leadership, financial oversight, and personnel management for the Extension District office. You will champion stakeholder education, build powerful community partnerships, and lead a dedicated team to deliver impactful programming across Dubuque County.  This is your opportunity to make a tangible, lasting impact on the Dubuque County community.

Qualifications
  • Education: Bachelors degree in a field related to Extension programming.
  • Experience: At least 3 years of experience managing, coaching, and supervising staff.
  • Financial Acumen: Proven experience developing budgets and interpreting financial reports.
  • Communication & Marketing: Strong written/oral communication skills with a background in community relations, social media, marketing, or public relations.
  • Core Knowledge: Content knowledge in at least one Extension field (Agriculture/Natural Resources, Human Sciences, Youth Development, or Community/Economic Development).
  • Logistics: A valid drivers license, reliable transportation, and proof of vehicle liability coverage.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Masters Degree in a related Extension programming field.
  • Additional years of management, supervisory, or public funds experience.
  • Proven track record in contract and grant writing.
  • Experience working alongside elected officials, diverse groups, and councils.
Responsibilities
  • Strategic Leadership & Community Relations: Serve as the primary representative for the Extension Council; build public relations, secure grants/funding, and expand community collaborations.
  • Team Management: Supervise, coach, and provide team leadership for county-paid staff, overseeing annual performance reviews and office operations.
  • Operations & Financial Oversight: Manage all aspects of the county budget, prepare financial reports, and maintain the facility in alignment with local and state policies.
  • Program Oversight: Collaborate with ISU faculty and specialists to plan, market, and implement educational programming in agriculture, youth development (4-H), human sciences, or economic development.
Additional Information
  • This position reports to the Regional Director (with input from the Dubuque County Extension Council).
  • This position is based onsite at the Dubuque County office with regular local travel .
  • Requires regular evening and occasional weekend hours & occasional overnight travel.
  • Documented mileage for work related travel is reimbursed.
Job Type
 
Full Time
Wages (type)
 
Salary
Wages (status)
 
exempt
Wages
 
commensurate with experience
Benefits
  • Competitive exempt salary
  • Comprehensive medical and dental employee benefits
  • Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS)
  • Professional development
Application Instructions

Please send resume, letter of interest, completed application and salary expectations to Marybeth Foster, Regional Director. No phone calls, please!

The Application for Employment-Dubuque County can be found HERE.

Application Deadline 09/16/2026
 

Iowa State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status and will not be discriminated against.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.


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