What are the responsibilities and job description for the Parks and Recreation Director position at Franklin County (NC)?
Please note: This is a repost of the original job announcement. If you’ve already applied, your application is still being reviewed and no further action is needed.
Lead the Way in Building a Healthier, Happier Franklin County Franklin County is seeking a visionary and dynamic Parks and Recreation Director to champion the development of vibrant public spaces and inclusive recreational programs. This leadership role offers the opportunity to shape the county’s outdoor experience—enhancing community wellness, promoting environmental stewardship, and creating memorable moments for residents of all ages. If you’re passionate about public service, strategic planning, and building strong community connections through parks and play, we invite you to bring your energy and expertise to our team.
Compensation:
Estimated Hiring Salary Range: $87,728-$92,114
**To Be Determined Based on Experience and Qualifications**
Benefits:
Franklin County offers a competitive benefits package designed to encourage and support your health, well-being and productivity. Benefit options include medical and dental insurance; elective supplemental insurance options such as short-term disability, vision, and voluntary term life; local government retirement; 401(k) with a 4% employer contribution (no employee match required); generous paid leave that includes 13 county-observed paid holidays per year; an employee wellness program inclusive of a county sponsored gym and an employee assistance program.
For more information about Franklin County benefit options please click here.
An employee in the classification manages and administers all aspects of the Franklin County Parks facilities and recreation programs. An employee in this job is to perform administrative and managerial duties along with occasional field work and maintenance functions associated with overseeing activities and operations of the Parks and Recreation Department. Duties and responsibilities include supervising and training assigned employees; planning and supervising construction and maintenance of grounds, buildings and equipment; developing and administering county recreation programs; directing overall operations of the Parks and Recreation Department; performing administrative activities including maintaining records, payroll and budget; representing the Department and county in the promotion, development and maintenance of the parks and recreation program to private groups, civic organizations, county officials, regional organizations, and the general public. Maintaining a productive relationship with the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and serving on appointed boards is also important to this position. This position will also involve field work assisting park crews with projects and assessing maintenance needs/issues. Adheres to the Mission, Vision, Values and Goals as set by the organization and specifically identified for accomplishment in this position. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Assistant County Manager and is reviewed through periodic conferences, reports, and results.Essential Duties and Tasks
Supervises, directs, and evaluates department staff, handling employee concerns and problems, assigning work, counseling, and recommending disciplinary and other personnel actions.
Administers all operations, activities and policies of the Parks and Recreation Department.
Directs the acquisition, planning, design/construction and maintenance of recreation equipment and park buildings, facilities, and grounds.
Prepares/presents annual fiscal budget; administers approved budget; prepares/implements capital improvements budget.
Attends meetings, seminars, etc., as directed or as appropriate.
Receives various documentation (public relations materials, project plans/drawings, reports, correspondence, personnel forms, invoices, etc.); analyzes, edits, responds and forwards as appropriate.
Works closely with Public Information Officer (PIO) to provide departmental public relations, marketing, and promotions; to communicate availability of facilities and recreational programs; and to respond to requests for information from officials, employees, members of the staff, the public, and other parties.
Collaborates and coordinates with all other County departments in developing, planning, and implementing recreation programs and supports programs provided by other departments.
Answers the telephone; provides information and returns phone calls.
Spends time in the field working on and overseeing department projects. Fills in when needed or understaffed on Parks Department jobs.
Stays abreast of new trends/advances in the profession; maintains professional affiliations; reads professional literature; attends workshops and training sessions as appropriate.
Research, assembles, and applies for various government and state grants (PARTF, etc.); oversees and makes recommendations for the Department’s matching grant program.
Plans, directs, and participates in providing an expanding and flexible program of recreational activities for all county residents.
Maintains a good working relationship with the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and listens and responds to their ideas, questions, and concerns. Continues to maintain a good working relationship with educational providers, as well as municipalities and communities throughout the County.
Strives to gain and maintain relationships with the various recreation groups in the County and establish a consultation role within these groups.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Thorough knowledge of all phases of county recreation and administration.
Knowledge of the principles and methods of parks and playground planning and development.
Knowledge of methods and equipment used in turf management and propagation and care of trees, plants, shrubs, and other landscaped areas.
Understanding of safety regulations associated with parks maintenance and recreational activities.
Ability to effectively supervise department staff and communicate department goals, direction, and ideas. Also, the ability to maintain good working relationships with staff, which promotes high morale and enthusiasm.
Ability to organize and direct the work of professional, technical, and maintenance staff, and contract workers.
Ability to use sound judgment, tact, and diplomacy.
Ability to express oneself clearly and precisely in oral and written forms.Bachelor’s degree in recreation resource administration, recreation programming, or related field and considerable experience in the management of a parks and recreation program; or equivalent combination of education and experience.Must possess a valid North Carolina driver’s license upon hire.
Must obtain a North Carolina Public Pesticide Operators License within six months of employment.
Must obtain Playground Safety Inspector certification within one year of employment.
Possession of Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) certification or ability to obtain as outlined in the eligibility requirements of the National Recreation and Parks Association within one (1) year of hire.
In county residency preferred.
Applications will be reviewed starting October 7, 2025.
Salary : $87,728 - $92,114
