Parks Manager

Job Description

Job Description

JOB OVERVIEW

Under the direction of the Public Works Director, the Parks Manager is a working manager responsible for leading and actively participating in the maintenance, repair, improvement, and operation of all City parks, green spaces, athletic fields, playgrounds, trails, and recreational facilities. This position is not solely administrative; the Parks Manager is expected to work alongside the parks crew, demonstrate proper maintenance techniques, operate equipment, and provide hands-on training and supervision to a developing team.

The Parks Manager ensures that City parks and facilities are safe, clean, attractive, functional, and welcoming for residents and visitors. This position oversees daily work assignments, staff development, equipment and material needs, budgets, safety compliance, and long-term improvement projects.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Hands-On Park Maintenance:

Actively perform and oversee daily maintenance, repair, and improvement work in City parks, including mowing, trimming, irrigation repairs and installations, landscaping, planting, pruning, fertilizing, weed control, playground maintenance, field maintenance, trail upkeep, cleaning, and minor construction projects.

Working Crew Leadership:

Lead by example by working alongside full-time, part-time, and seasonal employees. Train and mentor staff, especially newer and younger employees, on proper work methods, safe equipment operation, landscaping practices, irrigation repairs and installations, maintenance standards, and customer service expectations.

Daily Work Planning and Supervision:

Develop daily and weekly work schedules, assign tasks, inspect completed work, and ensure maintenance priorities are addressed efficiently. Adjust work assignments as needed based on weather conditions, emergencies, events, and seasonal needs.

Equipment Operation and Maintenance:

Safely operate and train staff on the use of trucks, trailers, mowers, tractors, utility vehicles, irrigation equipment, hand tools, power tools, and other parks maintenance equipment. Coordinate preventative maintenance and repairs to keep equipment in safe working condition.

Landscaping and Horticulture:

Plan, perform, and supervise landscaping and beautification efforts, including the installation and maintenance of trees, shrubs, turf, flower beds, and other horticultural features. Ensure staff use proper planting, pruning, irrigation, and seasonal maintenance practices.

Irrigation and Water Management:

Oversee and assist with the operation, inspection, maintenance, programming, and repair of irrigation systems. Promote responsible water use and identify opportunities for water conservation.

Facility, Playground, and Sports Field Maintenance:

Inspect, maintain, and repair park amenities, including playgrounds, restrooms, pavilions, sports courts, athletic fields, trails, fencing, benches, signs, and other recreational facilities. Ensure all areas meet cleanliness and safety standards.

Safety and Compliance:

Maintain a safe work environment for employees and the public. Ensure staff follow applicable safety procedures, use appropriate personal protective equipment, and receive training on equipment and job-site safety. Conduct or coordinate regular playground and facility inspections and maintain required documentation.

Budget and Resource Management:

Assist with developing and managing the parks budget, including staffing, equipment, supplies, repairs, and capital improvement needs. Monitor inventory and make recommendations for purchases, replacements, and upgrades.

Park Programs, Events, and Community Support:

Coordinate with City staff, community groups, and event organizers to prepare parks and facilities for recreational programs, public events, tournaments, and community activities. Assist with setup, cleanup, and facility needs as necessary.

Public and Stakeholder Communication:

Respond professionally to concerns and questions from residents, City officials, park users, vendors, and community organizations. Promote positive relationships and encourage responsible use of City parks.

Documentation and Reporting:

Maintain accurate records related to maintenance activities, inspections, repairs, equipment maintenance, staff training, work orders, expenses, and inventory. Prepare reports and provide updates to City management as requested.

Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship:

Promote sustainable maintenance practices, including water conservation, responsible chemical use, waste reduction, recycling, tree preservation, and protection of natural areas.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree in Parks and Recreation Management, Horticulture, Landscape Architecture, Public Administration, or a related field is preferred. Equivalent combinations of education, technical training, and relevant work experience will be considered.

Minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in parks, landscaping, grounds maintenance, public works, facilities maintenance, or a related field.

Demonstrated hands-on experience performing park and landscape maintenance, including irrigation, turf care, weed management, landscaping, equipment operation, and basic facility repairs.

Minimum of two years of experience supervising, training, or leading employees.

Experience managing budgets, equipment, materials, and maintenance schedules is preferred.

Certifications such as Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP), Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI), Certified Arborist, Certified Sports Field Manager (CSFM), pesticide applicator certification, or similar credentials are desirable.

Valid driver’s license required.

Commercial driver’s license (CDL B) or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire.

UDAF non-commercial pesticide license or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire.

On-call rotation assignment required.

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

Strong practical knowledge of landscaping, horticulture, turf management, irrigation systems, tree and shrub care, playground maintenance, and general park operations.

Ability and willingness to perform physically demanding work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Experience safely operating and maintaining park maintenance equipment, including mowers, tractors, utility vehicles, trailers, hand tools, and power equipment.

Ability to teach, coach, and develop inexperienced employees through hands-on instruction and supervision.

Knowledge of workplace safety practices, playground safety standards, and applicable local and state regulations.

Strong leadership, communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.

Ability to prioritize work, respond to changing conditions, and make sound decisions in a fast-paced environment.

Ability to establish positive working relationships with employees, residents, City officials, contractors, and community groups.

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