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Parks Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Tulare County Park Host

Visalia, CA

$14 - $19/hr

Albert Cendejas - Parks Manager Tulare County General Services Agency - Parks Division 2637 W. Burrel Avenue, Suite 200, Visalia, CA, 93291 Or E-mail: TulareCountyParks@tularecounty.ca.gov ...

Tulare County Park Host

Visalia, CA · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Albert Cendejas - Parks Manager Tulare County General Services Agency - Parks Division 2637 W. Burrel Avenue, Suite 200, Visalia, CA, 93291 Or E-mail: TulareCountyParks@tularecounty.ca.gov ...

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Showing results 1-20

Parks Manager information

See California salary details

$22.7K

$60.5K

$101.2K

How much do parks manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for parks manager in California is $60,548.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,400.00 and $68,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a parks manager do?

A Parks Manager oversees the maintenance, operations, and improvement of public parks and recreational facilities. They are responsible for managing staff, budgeting, planning events, ensuring safety standards, and enhancing the overall visitor experience. Parks Managers work closely with local governments and community organizations to develop programs and address issues such as conservation, facility upgrades, and public outreach. Their role is essential in preserving green spaces and providing recreational opportunities for the community.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a parks manager?

To thrive as a Parks Manager, you need expertise in park operations, facility management, budgeting, and a degree in parks and recreation management or a related field. Familiarity with maintenance management software, GIS systems, and certifications like CPR/First Aid or Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) are often required. Strong leadership, communication, and conflict resolution skills help coordinate staff, engage the public, and manage diverse situations. These skills are crucial for maintaining safe, attractive parks while balancing community needs and efficient resource use.

What are some common challenges faced by parks managers and how can they be addressed?

Parks Managers often encounter challenges such as balancing limited budgets with the need for facility maintenance, managing diverse teams, and addressing the expectations of the public regarding park cleanliness and safety. Effective communication with staff and stakeholders, prioritizing maintenance schedules, and leveraging community partnerships can help address these issues. Staying proactive about safety protocols and regularly engaging with the community also helps Parks Managers create a more positive and sustainable park environment.

What is the difference between Parks Manager vs Park Ranger?

AspectParks ManagerPark Ranger
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in parks management, environmental science, or related field; certifications in first aid and safetyOften requires a high school diploma or equivalent; certifications in first aid, CPR, and law enforcement may be needed
Work EnvironmentOffice-based planning and administrative tasks, with some outdoor site visitsPrimarily outdoor work, patrolling parks, assisting visitors, enforcing rules
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, parks departments, recreation organizationsFederal, state, or local parks, wildlife agencies

While both roles work within park environments, Parks Managers focus on administrative, planning, and operational oversight, whereas Park Rangers are more involved in outdoor enforcement, visitor assistance, and safety. The roles complement each other to ensure park safety, maintenance, and visitor experience.

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

The most popular types of Parks jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Parks Manager jobs in California?

For Parks Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Parks Manager jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Parks Manager jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Parks Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Parks Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Parks Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,548 per year, or $29.1 per hour.

2026-27 Lecturer Pool Department of Recreation, Hospitality, and Parks Management

California State University

Chico, CA

$8.5K - $15K/mo

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


California State University rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 46 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

211th of 627 rated colleges and universities


Job description

2026-27 Lecturer Pool Department of Recreation, Hospitality, and Parks Management

Apply now Job no: 555085
Work type: Instructional Faculty - Temporary/Lecturer
Location: Chico
Categories: Unit 3 - CFA - California Faculty Association, Temporary, Part Time, Time Varies, Faculty - Communications/Journalism

2026-27 Lecturer Pool Department of Recreation, Hospitality, and Parks Management

Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion:

California State University (CSU), Chico is a comprehensive and residential public university, holding Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) designation. Chico State operates as part of the 22-campus CSU system, which educates the most ethnically, economically, and academically diverse student body in the nation. The University enrolls over 14,000 students, with over half identifying as first-generation college students.

Chico State is committed to recruiting outstanding candidates. The ideal candidate will embrace our values predicated on the primacy of student success and the elimination of equity gaps, have demonstrated experience working with diverse populations, and will contribute to policies, programs, and practices that support an inclusive, accessible, and equitable learning and working environment.

Position Title: Academic Year Lecturer

College: Communication and Education

Department/School: Recreation, Hospitality, and Parks Management

Salary:

Lecturer A/2 Full-Time Equivalent Salary Range: $5,507 - $6,677 per month
Lecturer B/3 Full-Time Equivalent Salary Range: $6,221 - $13,224 per month
Lecturer C/4 Full-Time Equivalent Salary Range: $6,825 - $14,523 per month
Lecturer D/5 Full-Time Equivalent Salary Range: $8,593 - $15,211 per month

Anticipated hiring range is generally at or near the minimum of the appropriate range, commensurate with education and experience. Most new lecturers are hired at the Lecturer A or B rank. See the Faculty Salaries At-a-Glance guide for more information. 

Priority Review Date: 04/13/26; complete applications received after that date may be considered as needs arise.

Position Summary:

The Recreation, Hospitality, and Parks Management Department in the College of Communication and Education is collecting application materials for a pool of lecturers with positions available as determined by need during the 2026-27 academic year. Courses in need of coverage may include parks and recreation management courses and general hospitality/tourism courses.  Appointments from the lecturer pool are temporary and often occur just before the start of the academic term.

Minimum Qualifications:

The minimum education requirement for a lecturer appointment is a master's degree in recreation, hospitality, parks, or related fields.  A bachelor's degree with at least 5 years of managerial position(s) in the field of professional recreation, hospitality, and/or parks may be considered.

Preferred Qualifications:

Preferred qualifications include a PhD or previous teaching experience. Candidates with an ability and interest in teaching recreation, hospitality, or parks management are preferred. 

Responsibilities:

Lecturer positions in the department carry responsibilities in the areas of teaching undergraduate courses. Teaching assignments are based upon the qualifications of the individual and the needs of the department.

How to Apply:

Applicants must provide:

  • A current cover letter (including how you have addressed, or plan to address teaching to diverse student groups)
  • CV
  • A list of courses you believe you are qualified to teach and for which you wish to be considered (please complete the department course consideration checklist)
  • A copy of unofficial transcripts for your highest earned degree
  • Contact information of three professional references

Additional information may be requested at a later time. All applicants must apply online, applications submitted via email or in-person to the department will not be considered. For information about specific courses offered, please refer to the University Catalog.

The Department:

The Department of Recreation, Hospitality, and Parks Management offers a BS in Recreation, Hospitality, and Parks Management with programs options of Event Management; Parks and Recreation Management; and Resort & Lodging Management. Minors offered include Recreation, Hospitality, and Parks Management as well as Tourism. More information can be found at https://www.csuchico.edu/academics/college/communication-education/departments/recreation-hospitality-parks-management/index.shtml

Job-related questions should be directed to:

Chang Lee, Department Chair
clee93@csuchico.edu

Benefits Information:

This position may qualify for benefits including tuition fee waiver (if eligible). California State University, Chico offers a number of benefits to its employees (e.g., sick leave, vacation, health insurance). For more information and eligibility criteria, please visit https://www.csuchico.edu/hr/benefits/index.shtml.

Additional Information: 

Out of State Employment: All work must be performed within the State of California. 

Background Check and Disclosures: A background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily before any candidate can be offered a position with the CSU. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may affect the application status of applicants or continued employment of current CSU employees who apply for the position. 

Education Code 89521 Requirements: Applicants will be required to disclose whether they have received a final administrative decision or final judicial decision determining that they have committed sexual harassment within the last 7 years only after a determination is made that they meet the minimum qualifications for the position, and before an offer of employment is extended. Applicants who reach the final stages of the application process must also sign a release form that authorizes the release of information by the applicant's current and/or former employers to the CSU concerning any substantiated allegations of misconduct. 

Mandated Reporter: The person holding this position is considered a "mandated reporter" under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 (revised July 21, 2017) as a condition of employment. The person also will have a duty to report to the campus Title IX coordinator information pertaining to discrimination, harassment, sexual misconduct or exploitation, dating or domestic violence, stalking, and/or retaliation under CSU policy. 

Retired Annuitants: Retired annuitants may accept work if the appointment meets CalPERS eligibility criteria to avoid reinstatement from retirement or interruption of benefits. Per Government Code 7522.56(c), the appointment must either address an emergency to prevent the stoppage of public business or require specialized skills for work of limited duration. If you are a CalPERS retiree and have any questions regarding your work eligibility, reach out to Faculty Affairs via email (facultyaffairs@csuchico.edu) or phone (530-898-5029). 

Clery Act: Chico State's Annual Security Report includes summaries of institutional policy relating to campus safety, drug and alcohol use, sexual assault, and other matters. The report is published in compliance with the Clery Act and includes three years of certain crime statistics that occurred in Clery Act defined geography. A copy of the report may be requested in person at the Chico State Police Department or by calling 530-898-5555. It is also available online at Annual Security & Fire Safety Report. 

EEO Statement: Chico State is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, medical condition, disability, marital status, or protected veteran status and only employ individuals authorized to work in the U.S. 

For disability-related accommodations, please call the ADA Coordinator at (530) 898-5959. 

All positions are contingent on funding. 

About Chico State: 

Graduate and undergraduate programs boast high-quality research experiences, exceptional faculty mentoring, and civic and global engagement opportunities. The campus motto, "Today Decides Tomorrow," is brought to life by inclusive pedagogy, experiential learning, and co-curricular programming. The Chico Experience prepares students to be critical thinkers, engaged citizens, and inspired stewards of environmental, social, and economic resources. Together, they will become leaders solving the challenges of the 21st century.  

The campus is located in Northern California, 90 minutes from the state capital, Sacramento, and a three-hour drive from the San Francisco Bay Area. Chico offers year-round natural beauty, outdoor leisure activities, and a thriving arts, music, and events scene. We acknowledge and are mindful that Chico State stands on lands that were originally occupied by the first people of this area, the Mechoopda, and we recognize their distinctive spiritual relationship with this land, the flora, the fauna, and the waters that run through campus. We are humbled that our campus resides upon sacred lands that since time immemorial have sustained the Mechoopda people and continue to do so today. 

Advertised: February 11, 2026 (9:00 AM) Pacific Standard Time
Applications close:

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About California State University

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California State University, Fresno is one of 23 campuses in the California State University System. The University's mission is to boldly educate and empower students for success through our values of Discovery, Diversity and Distinction. The current student population is more than 25,000, including a large percentage of students with diverse and culturally rich backgrounds. The University serves the San Joaquin Valley while maintaining deep involvement with the state, nation, and across the globe.

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