Chief Deputy Drain Commissioner

Job Description

Job Description

Allegan County has much to offer, with 24 Townships, 9 Cities, and 2 Villages across nearly 900 square miles. The landscapes range from the lakeshore to beautifully wooded lands, our County’s natural resources are a gift to be treasured. Allegan County businesses, citizens, and employees are world-class, and we remain a welcoming, closely-knit community. We are one of the fastest-growing counties in Michigan.
Allegan County Government places high importance on our core values: Respect, Integrity, Commitment and Honesty. A common thread among our leadership, employees and volunteers is a strong desire to serve and be part of something meaningful. We have been recognized by Gallagher as “Best in Class Winner” among mid-size companies for our excellence in optimizing employee and organizational well-being for three years in a row (2023-2025). We have also received the “Impact Award” from M.E.R.S. for excellence in educating our employees about their retirement plans and overall financial wellness. We are looking for dedicated, caring, energetic people to join our team!

Job Summary:

Performs the duties of the Drain Commissioner in their absence, which includes decision making regarding clerical personnel, construction projects, and contracts with other agencies. Attends meetings and is a voting member of various drainage boards. Ensures procedures follow all applicable laws, rules and regulations of the State, Federal, county and Local Governments. Administers and/or oversees all accounting and financial procedures for office and drain projects. Performs a variety of support tasks for the Drain Commissioner.

Starting Wage: $78,802.88 annually, full-time salaried position

*Position begins in July 2026

Excellent Benefits Plan: Health benefits begin on the first of the month after your hire date
- Medical, Dental & Vision (3 medical plans to choose from, 2 of which have a $0 premium)
- County-funded Health Savings Account with our two high-deductible medical plans
- County-paid employee life insurance coverage
- Generous retirement plan, including a county contribution of 7% of your annual earnings
- Tuition Reimbursement Program for college degree courses
- 13 paid holidays
- FREE use of Allegan County government's two fitness centers

Responsibilities and Duties :

1. Performs the duties of the Drain Commissioner at the discretion of, or in the absence of, that official. Represents the Drain Commissioner at a variety of meetings. Votes on behalf of the Drain Commissioner as required.
2. Ensures that all legal proceedings and documentation meet the requirements of the Michigan Drain Code and other applicable statues and laws. Coordinates and directs proceedings with attorneys, engineers, township officials, financial consultants and institutions, and contractors.
3. As supervisor of clerical staff, performs functions of hiring of clerical staff, training, assigning work, scheduling, reviewing and evaluating performances of clerical staff. Responsible for payroll, scheduling vacations and informing staff of changes in County procedures and policies and/or office procedures.
4. Administers general department functions such as preparation of annual departmental budgets, monitoring budgets, paying invoices, preparing deposits, creating invoices, and account reconcilement.
5. Assists individuals, on the telephone and in person, with inquiries and complaints regarding county drains. Responds to inquiries from banks, mortgage companies, title insurance companies and individuals about drain assessments on parcels. Identifies parcels with assessments including balance owed.
6. Assists with the preparation of special assessment rolls. Confirms drainage district boundaries with the use of district maps, GIS software, and drain assessment software. Processes data to determine benefit factor, benefit percent, and dollars to be assessed. Compiles information and prepares a complete report to the County Clerk and County Treasurer.
7. Maintains the separate accounting records for county drains and debt projects. Pays contractors, materials, and other costs for drains, receipts monies received from special assessments and loans from banks. Works with Treasurer on transfer of funds and investment monies and ensures that interest is properly credited to accounts.
8. Arranges for loans to drainage districts, identifying the drains needing the loans, determining the amounts needed and payback schedules, soliciting bids, preparing notes, and arranging closings. Responsible for drain note reporting to the Internal Revenue service.
9. Establishes amortization schedules on multiple year assessments. Prepares breakdowns of amortization schedules on request by determining the portion of acreage and assessment for each split parcel.
10. Prepares the Drain commissioner’s annual report to the County Board of Commissioners as directed by P.A. 40 of 1956, as amended.
11. Handles emergency situations related to drainage up to and including application, administration, and reporting for Federal Emergency Management Act.
12. Represents the Drain Commissioner and is primary contact for print, radio, and television media as necessary.
13. Prepares public notices for meetings and public hearings according to applicable Statutes. Prepares agendas and schedules for various meetings. Takes and prepares minutes of meetings.
14. Evaluates office procedures and recommends changes to conform to changes in law, technology, etc.

Education and Experience:

• Associates Degree in Accounting or equivalent with advanced coursework in financial management required
• Bachelors Degree in Accounting preferred
• Four years of progressively more responsible experience in an office setting, with knowledge of governmental and legal systems
• Supervisory and management experience
• Strong computer knowledge and experience with Microsoft Office, automated research tools and database applications
• Possession of a valid State of Michigan Driver’s license and a satisfactory driving record

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