ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Parks Director Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Ironside Human Resources

Laboratory Director

Goodland, KS · On-site

$84K - $163K/yr

Laboratory Director A well-respected community hospital located just outside of Goodland, Kansas ... The area features highly rated schools, several beautiful local parks, a public library, and ...

Genesis Health Clubs

Aquatic Director

Topeka, KS · On-site

$35K - $46K/yr

Prepare and discuss weekly aquatic report with aquatic director * Promote all classes and events ... We now operate a family of brands that includes trampoline parks, water parks, ice skating rinks ...

JCPRD

KCCC Games Director

Shawnee, KS · On-site

JCPRD welcomes over 7 million visitors to our parks and engages 3 million+ participants in more ... Serve as a Games Director for KCCC, making game rules suggestions, securing venues, scheduling, and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsParks JobsParks Director JobsParks Director Jobs in Kansas

Parks Director information

What does a parks director do?

A Parks Director is responsible for managing and overseeing the operations, maintenance, and improvement of public parks and recreation facilities within a city or municipality. Their duties include planning and implementing recreational programs, managing budgets, supervising staff, and ensuring parks are safe, clean, and accessible to the public. They also collaborate with community organizations and government agencies to enhance park services and facilities, promoting community engagement and outdoor recreation.

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

To thrive as a Parks Director, you need expertise in public administration, park management, budgeting, and typically a degree in parks and recreation management or a related field. Familiarity with facility management software, GIS mapping tools, and relevant certifications like CPRP (Certified Park and Recreation Professional) are often required. Strong leadership, communication, and community engagement skills help build consensus and manage diverse teams. These abilities are essential for ensuring safe, sustainable, and well-maintained parks that meet community needs.

What are some common challenges a parks director faces in balancing community needs and budget constraints?

A Parks Director often encounters the challenge of meeting diverse community expectations for recreational facilities, green spaces, and programs while working within limited municipal budgets. This requires prioritizing projects, seeking alternative funding sources like grants or partnerships, and engaging with the public to ensure resources are allocated effectively. Successful Parks Directors are proactive in fostering collaboration with stakeholders and transparent in communicating decisions, helping to build community trust and maximize impact.

What is the difference between Parks Director vs Recreation Coordinator?

AspectParks DirectorRecreation Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's degree in parks and recreation, public administration, or related field; often requires experience in park managementAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in recreation, leisure studies, or related field; certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentOversees parks, facilities, and staff; manages budgets and policiesCoordinates recreational programs and activities; works directly with community members
Employer & IndustryMunicipal parks departments, government agenciesCommunity centers, parks, recreational facilities

The Parks Director typically holds a higher-level management role, overseeing entire park systems and staff, while the Recreation Coordinator focuses on planning and implementing recreational programs. Both roles require related credentials and work within public recreation settings, but the Parks Director has broader administrative responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Parks jobs in Kansas?

The most popular types of Parks jobs in Kansas are:

What are popular job titles related to Parks Director jobs in Kansas?

For Parks Director jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Parks Director jobs in Kansas look for?

The top searched job categories for Parks Director jobs in Kansas are:

What cities in Kansas are hiring for Parks Director jobs?

Cities in Kansas with the most Parks Director job openings:

Parks Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Parks Director job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Groundskeeper I- Parks and Recreation

Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City

Kansas City, KS • On-site

$24.01/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

As a condition of employment all employees must pass a post offer criminal history background check, physical examination and drug screen. All employees must also submit proof of identity and employment eligibility.
Would you enjoy working outdoors and contributing to the care of parks, green spaces, and outdoor facilities?
Are you skilled in operating a variety of lawn maintenance tools and equipment?
Would you enjoy being part of a team that helps maintain public spaces for the community to enjoy?
Why you should apply to be a part of the Unified Government of WYCO/KCK Parks and Recreation Department as a Groundskeeper I:
Join our Parks & Recreation team and play a vital role in maintaining beautiful and functional outdoor spaces for the community to enjoy. This entry-level position is perfect for individuals who enjoy hands-on, outdoor work and take pride in keeping public parks and green spaces well-maintained. With opportunities for skill development and career growth, this role provides a great foundation for those looking to build a future in groundskeeping while making a positive impact on the community.
Rationale for Proposed Classification:
The Groundskeeper I position is essential to the Parks & Recreation Department, supporting the regular upkeep and maintenance of public parks, sports fields, and outdoor facilities. As an entry-level role, it provides foundational support in keeping these spaces safe, clean, and functional for community use. By maintaining high-quality public amenities, this position directly enhances the accessibility and enjoyment of outdoor spaces for residents and visitors.
Summary of the Position:
The Groundskeeper I is responsible for performing routine maintenance tasks to ensure the cleanliness, safety, and functionality of public parks, sports fields, sports courts, and outdoor facilities. This role involves operating a variety of lawn care and maintenance equipment, assisting with field preparation, and supporting seasonal responsibilities such as snow removal. Groundskeeper I employees work as part of a team to uphold the overall appearance and usability of community spaces.
General Overview of Responsibilities:
  • Perform daily maintenance for all equipment used.
  • Operate or drive a variety of specialized equipment including, but not limited to waste compactor trucks, dump trucks, zero turn mowers, front-end loaders, , tractors, and power/hand tools.
  • Load and unload materials such as stone, gravel, dirt, and trash.
  • Perform sport field maintenance tasks.
  • Operate trimmers, blowers, and chainsaws.
  • Remove trash and debris from work areas, parks and public spaces.
  • Complete required workorders.
  • Use hand and power tools associated with landscaping.
  • Operate turf aerating and other landscaping equipment.
  • Apply herbicides, pesticides, and granular materials as directed.
  • Prune, trim, and remove shrubs, trees, and stumps.
  • Assist with snow removal as needed.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge:
  • Familiarity with lawn maintenance tools, equipment, and materials.
  • Knowledge of the safe operation of hand tools and gasoline-powered equipment.
  • Basic understanding of field maintenance tasks.

Skills:
  • Ability to understand and carry out oral instructions.
  • Physical strength and agility to perform heavy work.
  • Competence in operating and maintaining groundskeeping equipment.
  • Ability to learn and safely operate landscaping tools and machinery.
  • Strong attention to detail in groundskeeping and maintenance tasks.
  • Effective communication and teamwork in a diverse work environment.
  • Ability to effectively work in various environments, including outdoor settings, with exposure to dirt, dust, loud noises, vibrations, and temperature extremes.
  • Ability to safely work around potential hazards, including pesticides, herbicides, machinery, traffic, and other right-of-way risks.

Qualifications:
Graduation from High School or G.E.D. or any equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the necessary knowledge, abilities, and skill. Ability to understand and follow written and oral instructions. Ability to perform manual labor tasks in outdoor settings and various weather conditions, including lifting, bending, pulling, and operating equipment. Must possess a Kansas Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Class B with air brakes or obtain one within six months of hire.
Valid Kansas driver's license and acceptable driving record per the Unified Government's Human Resources Driver Safety, Accident Reporting, and Vehicle Use policy throughout employment with the Unified Government. Ability to pass a criminal background check.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Prior experience in grounds maintenance, landscaping, or a related field.
  • Previous experience in municipal or commercial landscaping or maintenance of grounds.
  • Experience with turf maintenance, sports field preparation, or irrigation systems.

Salary Range:
$24.01/hr.
The Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kansas is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values an inclusive workforce.
If you need to reach a member of the Human Resources staff, please call (913) 573-5660 or email jobs@wycokck.org.
Company: Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, KS

Apply