ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Park Planner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of Snohomish

Associate Planner

Snohomish, WA

$71K - $92K/yr

Prepare draft staff reports for long-range plans, land use actions, historical preservation, park planning, and development proposals and present to the Boards and Commissions, and Hearing Examiner ...

AMERICAN RAMP COMPANY

Bike Park Designer

Joplin, MO

Bike Park Designer American Ramp Company (ARC) is a full-service action sports planning, design, manufacturing, and construction firm specializing in public skateparks, bike parks, pump tracks, and ...

State of Virginia

$60K - $84K/yr

Park Manager Apply now Job no: 5107970 Work type: Full-Time (Salaried) Location: Northampton ... Considerable business management experience, including budget planning and revenue generation.

National Park Service

Supervisory Park Ranger (P)

Page, AZ · On-site +1

$91K - $119K/yr

The park contains 1,960 miles of shoreline, 98 canyons, 6 major developed areas with concession ... Directly prepares recommendations for planning, programming, and distribution of the Division ...

Florida Jobs

PARK SERVICES SPECIALIST

Saint Augustine, FL · On-site

$38K/yr

PARK SERVICES SPECIALIST - 37000826 Anastasia State Park seeks a positive, outgoing, creative, self ... Incumbents must have experience in special event planning and execution, volunteer management, and ...

State of Florida

PARK SERVICES SPECIALIST

Palatka, FL · On-site

$38K/mo

Provides research planning, coordination and conducts the interpretation of the natural and cultural resources within the park, including environmental education programs, summer camps, guided walks ...

Florida Jobs

PARK SERVICES SPECIALIST

Palatka, FL · On-site

$38K/yr

Provides research planning, coordination and conducts the interpretation of the natural and cultural resources within the park, including environmental education programs, summer camps, guided walks ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsPark Planner Jobs

Park Planner information

See salary details

$20K

$60.1K

$102.5K

How much do park planner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for park planner in the United States is $60,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,500.00 and $77,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a park planner do?

A Park Planner is responsible for designing, developing, and managing public parks and recreation areas. They assess community needs, create plans and layouts for new parks or renovations, and ensure that spaces are accessible, sustainable, and enjoyable for visitors. Their work often involves collaborating with local governments, landscape architects, and community members to integrate natural resources, recreational facilities, and environmental conservation into park projects.

What are some of the main challenges park planners face when balancing community needs with environmental sustainability?

Park Planners often navigate the challenge of designing spaces that meet diverse community needs while also preserving natural resources. They must engage with stakeholders to gather input from local residents, advocacy groups, and government agencies, balancing recreational demands with conservation goals. This requires creative problem-solving to develop inclusive, accessible parks that protect wildlife habitats, manage stormwater, and promote sustainability. Collaboration with landscape architects, engineers, and urban planners is essential to strike the right balance and ensure long-term benefits for both people and the environment.

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

To thrive as a Park Planner, a background in landscape architecture, urban planning, or environmental design—often supported by a relevant degree and experience—is essential. Familiarity with GIS software, CAD programs, and planning regulations, along with certifications such as AICP or PLA, is typically required. Strong communication, project management, and public engagement skills help Park Planners collaborate with stakeholders and address community needs effectively. These competencies ensure that parks are thoughtfully designed, sustainable, and accessible, enhancing community well-being and environmental stewardship.

What is the difference between Park Planner vs Landscape Architect?

AspectPark PlannerLandscape Architect
CredentialsBachelor's degree in urban planning, landscape architecture, or related fieldBachelor's or master's degree in landscape architecture, licensure often required
Work EnvironmentPublic parks, urban planning agencies, government projectsDesign firms, private practices, public agencies
Industry UsageFocuses on park development, community spaces, and recreational areasDesigns outdoor spaces, including parks, gardens, and commercial landscapes

While both roles involve outdoor space planning, Park Planners primarily focus on developing public parks and recreational areas within urban environments, often working for government agencies. Landscape Architects have a broader scope, designing various outdoor spaces including parks, gardens, and commercial landscapes, and typically require licensure. Both roles require knowledge of environmental design and work in similar environments, but their project focus and credentials differ.

More about Park Planner jobs
What cities are hiring for Park Planner jobs? Cities with the most Park Planner job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Park Planner jobs? The top employers for Park Planner jobs are:
What states have the most Park Planner jobs? States with the most job openings for Park Planner jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Park Planner jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Park Planner jobs are:
Park Planner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Park Planner job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,102 per year, or $28.9 per hour.

Superintendent of Park Services

Dundee Township Parks District

Carpentersville, IL • On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Lead Operations. Enhance Parks. Inspire Community.
Are you a visionary leader with a passion for parks, natural areas, and community enrichment? The Dundee Township Park District is seeking a dynamic and experienced Superintendent of Park Services to lead a diverse and dedicated team, champion large-scale projects, and thrive in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment.
Why This Role Matters:
As Superintendent, you'll oversee the planning, organization, and management of all aspects of the Park Services Department, including parks, natural areas, non-recreation facilities, and zoo operations. You will serve as a key leader responsible for both day-to-day operations and capital projects that shape the future of our community's parks and facilities. This role requires a coach and mentor who can lead a talented team while navigating complex tasks and frequently shifting priorities.
What You'll Do:
  • Lead, coach, and support a diverse team of four full-time division supervisors within Park Services, with indirect oversight of part-time and seasonal staff.
  • Lead, coach, and support a diverse team of Zoo staff, with direct oversight of full-time employees and indirect oversight of part-time and seasonal staff.
  • Support and lead your team through large-scale capital projects from design to completion, managing bidding, budgeting, and construction oversight.
  • Support and enhance team development through coaching, training, and education programs.
  • Spearhead District compliance initiatives, including ADA and safety/risk management requirements.
  • Maintain operational excellence across parks, facilities, and zoo operations by providing your team the resources, assistance and collaboration.
  • Act as the District's lead for grant writing and financial assistance, driving growth through innovative project funding.

What We're Looking For:
  • A natural coach who thrives on building and supporting high-performing teams.
  • A leader who can pivot effortlessly between long-term planning and daily task management in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
  • A proactive problem-solver with experience.
  • Five years of department-level leadership experience.
  • Strong skills in budgeting, project management, and knowledge of federal, state, and local guidelines.
  • Strong communication skills that promote and emphasize positive team morale and inter-departmental partnerships.

Qualifications:
Education
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in park maintenance, forestry, horticulture, recreation, or a closely related field is preferred. Candidates with equivalent, relevant experience will be considered.
Experience
Minimum of five (5) years of progressive leadership experience at the department head level in park maintenance or a related field. Demonstrated expertise in:
  • Construction and project management
  • Turf management and athletic field maintenance
  • Horticulture and landscape maintenance
  • Equipment operations and maintenance
  • Budget development and oversight
  • HVAC systems and facility maintenance
  • Park planning and design

Experience working with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and other state agencies is highly desirable, including preparing and administering grant programs such as OSLAD and PARC.
Licensure
  • Valid Illinois Driver's License required; CDL preferred
  • Illinois Pesticide Applicator License (Turf and Ornamentals) highly desired

Certifications and Professional Affiliations
  • Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) preferred
  • Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) preferred

In exchange for your time and talent, we offer a generous benefit package, including:
  • Defined contribution medical insurance plan options
  • Dental insurance plan
  • Vision insurance plan
  • District paid life insurance and voluntary additional life insurance, spouse and dependent
  • Participation in IMRF (retirement, disability, death benefits)
  • Vacation days, personal days, sick leave and paid holidays
  • Sick bank leave and paid bereavement leave
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Deferred compensation retirement plan option
  • Flexible spending accounts for unreimbursed medical and dependent care
  • Free family Memberships to our unique facilities
  • Free/discounted District programs, merchandise and concessions
  • Educational assistance/tuition reimbursement/professional development
  • Professional organizational memberships
  • Service Awards Program
  • Employee social activities
  • Wellness Incentive Program
  • Credit Union

If you're ready to lead with vision, inspire your team, and help shape the future of our parks and community, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply