Initial Posting Date: 06/03/2026
Application Deadline:06/15/2026
Agency:Parks and Recreation Department
Salary Range:$5,907 - $9,143
Position Type:Employee
Position Title:Park Manager 2 (Underfill Option)
Job Description:Deschutes River State Recreation AreaNear Wasco, Oregon, United States
Welcome StatementOregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is proud to care for Oregon's extraordinary landscapes and rich cultural history. The department serves its visitors and all Oregonians through its properties and programs, and recognizes that the state's resilience and beauty are strengthened by its diverse population. Oregon State Parks are public spaces where all are welcome. We value and serve everyone, and we are committed to providing safe and equitable access to state parks and agency programs. The department will not tolerate racism, harassment, discrimination or intimidation in any form.
UNDERFILL OPTION: The goal of this recruitment is to fill the position at the
Park Manager 2 level; however,we encourage candidates who meet the minimum qualifications for
Park Manager 1 ($5,371 - $8,299), to apply.We will consider underfilling the position until the selected candidate meets the minimum qualifications for the
Park Manager 2 classification. Underfill training will not extend beyond three years.
What you will do:As a
permanent, full-time Park Manager, you will lead a moderately complex park management unit by providing supervision, direction, and support to staff responsible for maintenance and operations, interpretive and recreation programming, resource protection, and administrative functions. This management unit includes a high level of facility and infrastructure development; multiple properties, positions, and FTEs; and a moderate to large operating budget, revenue stream, day-use count, and overnight visitation.
The parks within this unit may include habitats for Threatened and Endangered plant and animal species, as well as above- and below-ground cultural resources listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The role may also involve coordinating with OPRD cooperating associations, managing intergovernmental, agricultural, or concession agreements, or a combination of these responsibilities.
For a complete review of the position and responsibilities please click
here.What's in it for you:An exciting opportunity to help millions of visitors connect with the top state parks across America; working alongside a dedicated, skilled, and passionate team of professionals. Additional benefits include:
- Work/life balance, 11 paid holidays a year, and a competitive benefits package
- Advancement and learning opportunities that will help grow your career with the State of Oregon.
Minimum Qualifications: Park Manager 2: - A Bachelor's degree in Park and Recreation Administration, Natural Resource Management, Environmental Studies or a related field and 1 year of experience as a Park Manager or equivalent natural resource manager; - OR -
- Four years of experience as a Park Manager or equivalent natural resource manager.
Minimum qualifications: Park Manager 1 (Underfill):- Two years of lead work experience in park operations and maintenance.- OR -
- An Associate's degree in Park and Recreation Administration or Natural Resource Management or Environmental Studies and 6 months of lead work experience in park operations and maintenance.
NOTE: A higher-level degree may substitute for the Associate's degree. There is no substitute for the 6 months experience.
Special Requirements: - To be hired, a criminal record and driving record check must be completed that meets OPRD Criteria at the time of hire, and throughout employment while also maintaining a valid driver's license.
- Must obtain First Aid/CPR Certification, OPRD Enforcement Officer Status after appointment.
Desired Attributes:- Experience with determining the methods, means, and personnel by which park operations are conducted in complex or numerous properties, including campgrounds, day-use areas, and recreational sites, within the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) context. This involves a deep understanding of the unique requirements and challenges associated with managing various types of park facilities and amenities including both historic and cultural sites.
- Proven experience in evaluating the effectiveness of park operational plans and activities, coupled with the ability to engage park staff in soliciting recommendations for improvement. This entails a keen eye for detail and a commitment to continuous improvement in park management practices.
- Demonstrated ability to lead and develop a diverse team of park rangers, park ranger assistants, volunteers, and hosts in executing park and campground operations. This includes hands-on involvement in day-to-day operations and adept management of personnel to ensure smooth functioning of park facilities.
- Exceptional communication skills to effectively engage with the general public, media outlets, agency officials, and local government representatives. This includes the ability to convey information clearly, address concerns diplomatically, and foster positive relationships with stakeholders.
- Proven capability to develop and maintain positive working relationships with neighboring property owners, as well as mid-level agency and local government representative and concessionaires. This requires adeptness in negotiation, conflict resolution, and collaboration to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes.
- Proficiency in working within collective bargaining agreements, demonstrating respect for labor regulations and effectively managing personnel within established frameworks.
- Strong financial acumen and the ability to prepare large, biennial park management unit budgets while adhering to budgetary limits. This involves strategic allocation of resources to prioritize key operational needs and optimize financial performance.
- Expertise in leading complex park improvement projects through all phases, including planning, permitting, and procurements. This requires comprehensive project management skills, attention to detail, and the ability to navigate regulatory requirements and stakeholder interests.
- Experience managing the day-to-day maintenance and operation as well as long term planning and project management skills, required to care for cultural and historically significant sites, artifacts and associated buildings: including museums, visitor centers, etc.
- A steadfast commitment to serving the public with humility and open-mindedness, with a focus on promoting diversity and inclusion in all aspects of park management and operations. This involves fostering an environment that embraces and celebrates differences while ensuring equitable access to park facilities and experiences.
How to Apply:Applications will be reviewed for minimum qualifications and desired attributes listed above, consistency of information, and professional communication.
A resume and a cover letter are REQUIRED for this posting. Failure to provide may remove your application from consideration.- Use the "My Experience" section in your Workday candidate profile to provide a detailed overview of your work history, experience, and skills, demonstrating how you meet the minimum qualifications and any of the desired attributes listed above. What You Need to Know to Get the Job
- The information in your application will be used to complete a pay equity assessment to determine salary placement upon hire. Please see the link here to our Pay Equity Project
- External Applicants: Click on the "Apply" link and submit your application. View this video or this knowledge article for assistance.
- Internal Applicants (Current State of Oregon employees): Apply via your employee Workday account. View this knowledge article for help.
- Veterans: We value the dedication of Veterans! Take advantage of Veterans' Preference by submitting the required documentation at time of application. The requirements can be found on the Veterans' Resources page under "Qualifying for Veterans' Preference".
- After applying, log in to your Workday account (application site) to see if you have any pending tasks or actions that need to be completed before the announcement closes. Save a copy of this job announcement for your reference.
- Interview timeframes are tentatively scheduled as follows:
- 1st round: Week of July 20th
- 2nd round (if needed): Week of July 27th
Additional Information:- This position is management service and not represented by a union.
- This announcement may be used to fill future vacancies as they occur.
- Oregon Parks & Recreation Department does not offer visa sponsorships. Within three days of hire, all applicants will be required to complete the US Department of Justice Form I-9, confirming authorization to work in the United States. Oregon Parks and Recreation Department uses E-Verify to confirm that applicants are authorized to work in the United States.
Contact Information:- For questions about this position, contact hiring supervisor: Matt Davey: email: matthew.davey@oprd.oregon.gov, phone: 541-977-6067.
- For questions on application process, email: OPRD.Recruiting@oprd.oregon.gov.
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Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, committed to diversity.The State of Oregon does not request or require your age, date of birth, attendance or graduation dates from an educational institution during the application process. 
