Parks and Recreation Director

Job Description: Parks & Recreation Director

Department: Parks & Recreation

FLSA Status: Exempt

Reports To: Mayor / City Administration

Supervises: Parks & Recreation Staff, Seasonal Employees, Volunteers

Position Overview

The Parks & Recreation Director is responsible for planning, organizing, and overseeing all activities, operations, and personnel within the City of St. Martinville's Parks & Recreation Department. This role ensures that city parks, public recreational areas, and community programming are safe, well-maintained, inclusive, and aligned with community needs. The Director leads long-term planning, budget development, program creation, facility management, and interdepartmental collaboration to promote a high quality of life for residents.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Provide leadership, direction, and management of all Parks & Recreation staff and operations.
• Develop, plan, and implement parks maintenance schedules, recreation programs, and community events.
• Prepare and manage the department's annual budget, including forecasting, procurement, and expenditure monitoring.
• Oversee maintenance, safety, and improvements of all parks, playgrounds, sports fields, trails, and recreational facilities.
• Coordinate facility rentals, schedules, and usage for sports leagues, organizations, and community members.
• Ensure compliance with city policies, state regulations, and safety standards.
• Seek and manage grants, sponsorships, partnerships, and funding opportunities to enhance programs and facilities.
• Work closely with the Mayor, City Council, schools, civic groups, and community organizations to meet local recreational needs.
• Develop and enforce department policies, procedures, and operational guidelines.
• Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate full-time, part-time, and seasonal staff.
• Promote community engagement through marketing, outreach, and public communication.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and project updates for city leadership and council meetings.
• Oversee maintenance equipment, inventory, and contract services.
• Respond to emergencies, facility issues, weather-related concerns, and after-hours needs as required.

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Knowledge of parks maintenance practices, recreation programming, and facility management.
• Ability to prepare and manage budgets, grants, and long-term project plans.
• Knowledge of occupational safety standards and risk management procedures.
• Ability to organize, prioritize, and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Proficiency with basic computer applications, scheduling software, and reporting tools.
• Ability to work cooperatively with the public, staff, and city administration.
• Strong problem-solving and conflict-resolution abilities.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required; Bachelor's Degree in Recreation Management, Public Administration, Business, or related field preferred.
• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in parks management, recreation programming, municipal operations, or a related field.
• Supervisory or management experience required.
• Valid Louisiana driver's license.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, lift, and carry tools or equipment as needed.
• Work may include outdoor environments, exposure to weather, and physical activity.
• Ability to respond to emergencies or operational needs after hours, weekends, or holidays.

Work Environment

• Combination of office, outdoor, and facilities-based work.
• Frequent interaction with the public, community groups, and partner organizations.
• May require evening or weekend hours during events or peak seasons.

Pay: $35, $36,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

Work Location: In person

Salary : $36,000