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Parks Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Floyd County

Parks Program Director

New Albany, IN

$50K/yr

The Program Director for the Floyd County Parks and Recreation Department is responsible for supervising and directing assigned staff and organizing and promoting recreation programs within the ...

Town of Addison

Assistant Director of Parks

Addison, TX · On-site

$106K - $159K/yr

Under general supervision of the Director of Parks and Recreation Director, the Assistant Director assists with the management and administrative activities of policies related to planning, operation ...

City of Jonestown

PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR

Leander, TX · On-site

$84K - $90K/yr

Assistant Public Works Director, Public Works and Parks Department staff. EXAMPLES OF WORK Essential Duties* · Manages special projects. Responsible for planning; both short term and long term. ...

County of Newaygo

Park Attendant

White Cloud, MI

$14.25 - $15/hr

Performs other duties as assigned by the Park Manager or Parks Director. Typical Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent, or currently enrolled in High School; a minimum of 16 years of age ...

City of Bloomfield

Seasonal Parks Worker

Bloomfield, NM · On-site

$14 - $18.50/hr

General Purpose Under the direct supervision of the Parks Supervisor, Parks Worker II, and Parks Worker I , this position performs a variety of semi‑skilled tasks related to the daily maintenance ...

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Parks Director information

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 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.
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Parks Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Parks Director job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.
Director of Parks and Recreation

Director of Parks and Recreation

City of Davenport

Davenport, IA

$140K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Definition Lead the future of parks, recreation, and community spaces in one of Iowa's most vibrant cities. The City of Davenport is seeking a visionary leader to guide a dynamic Parks and Recreation Department, shaping exceptional experiences, enhancing public spaces, and enriching the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. Under administrative direction, the Director of Parks and Recreation provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for the City's Parks and Recreation Department and is responsible for planning, developing, and managing department programs, facilities, operations, personnel, budgets, and capital projects, directly or through subordinate staff, to ensure high-quality services that meet community needs and support the City's vision.

For additional details on this opportunity and information on the full compensation package - please read the Director of Parks & Recreation Brochure. Salary range is $140,000-$160,000 DOQ. Examples Of Duties Directs and oversees all Parks and Recreation Department operations, including parks, trails, open spaces, recreation programs, athletic facilities, and related assets.

Develops and implements departmental goals, policies, budgets, staffing plans, and long-range initiatives, including the Parks and Recreation Master Plan. Supervises personnel, manages recruitment and performance, and ensures effective service delivery and resource allocation. Leads capital improvement projects and oversees the maintenance, operation, and lifecycle management of facilities, infrastructure, and equipment.

Advises the City Administrator and City Council on parks, recreation, open space, and departmental matters. Serves as liaison to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and collaborates with residents, community organizations, and partner agencies to develop programs, facilities, and community initiatives. Pursues grants and funding opportunities.

Coordinates activities with other departments and external organizations. Ensures compliance with applicable laws and safety standards Performs related duties as assigned. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Recreation, Physical Education, Landscape Architecture, Park Planning and Design, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a closely related field, and eight (8) years of progressively responsible parks and recreation experience, including at least five (5) years in a management role; or an equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Must possess a valid driver's license and maintain throughout duration of appointment. Must pass a background check as prescribed by the City of Davenport. Must live in the City of Davenport within prescribed time period.

Knowledge and Skills Knowledge of: Parks and recreation administration, planning, programming, and facility management. Municipal government operations, budgeting, purchasing, and public administration. Capital improvement planning, project management, and contract administration.

Applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, safety standards, and risk management principles. Personnel management, employee development, performance evaluations, and labor relations. Strategic planning, organizational development, and performance measurement.

Grant development, administration, and revenue-generation strategies. Community engagement, public relations, and customer service practices. Skill and Ability to: Provide effective leadership, supervision, and direction for diverse departmental operations.

Develop and manage budgets, resources, and financial performance. Plan, organize, and oversee multiple programs, projects, and priorities simultaneously. Build and maintain productive relationships with elected officials, advisory boards, community organizations, staff, and residents.

Interpret and apply applicable laws, regulations, policies, and procedures. Utilize technology and software related to budgeting, project management, recreation management, and office operations. Foster a positive, accountable, and collaborative work environment.

Respond effectively to community concerns, emergencies, and changing operational needs.

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