Director of Park Operations

The Director of Park Operations is a key leadership position responsible for overseeing the Park Operations Department of a large, multi-jurisdictional regional park organization. This position reports directly to the Executive Director with considerable latitude for independent judgment and strategic decision-making while serving as a vital member of the senior leadership team. This position is responsible for the full management of park operations, including recreational facilities, public programming, special events, natural and cultural resource stewardship, park maintenance, and revenue generation. A strong commitment to collaboration, innovation, and creative problem-solving is essential, along with a deep understanding of park and facility operations. This position oversees a large and diverse team and must inspire excellence, foster teamwork, and ensure operational efficiency and effectiveness across the system. The NOVA Parks system is unique in many ways, one of which is that it is nearly 90% self-funded through revenue generating operations. Hiring Salary Range: $130,000 - $175,000

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (with illustrative examples of work)

Oversee management of personnel:

• Plan, direct, and supervise the work of park management staff in the operation, management, maintenance, and oversight of park facilities, grounds, and equipment.
• Review and approve the hiring of all new full-time staff.
• Review and approve employee salary increases and transfers.
• Develop and implement performance standards and key indicators and evaluate performance of management personnel against those standards.
• Conduct meetings and training for operations management staff to address and resolve challenges, communicate updates, and promote coordination and effective communication.
• Ensure adherence to fair and equitable employment practices.

Develop operations budget and oversee implementation:

• Oversee the preparation and administration of the annual operating budget for the department.
• Assist in the planning and review of capital projects and assist in the development of the capital budget.
• Develop and implement innovative strategies to enhance and maintain revenue production.
• Monitor and approve spending to align with the approved operations budget.
• Identify and pursue alternative funding sources, including grants, donations, sponsorships, and volunteer support initiatives.

Oversee management of park facilities and programs:

• Regularly inspect park facilities to ensure conformance with NOVA Parks policies, procedures, and standards.
• Identify operational needs, challenges, and opportunities and initiate timely and effective actions.
• Develop, prepare, and execute park operations contracts and permits for park operations and services.
• Develop, implement, and oversee maintenance programs.
• Assist with the effective marketing and promotion of park sites, services, and operations to enhance offerings and revenue generation.

Establish and maintain positive public relations program:

• Promote a positive image for NOVA Parks through effective maintenance and operations.
• Effectively communicate with the public, stakeholders, and special interest groups through presentations, meetings, and other outreach efforts.
• Maintain strong relationships with vendors, local law enforcement, and community groups.
• Engage with public officials and administrators on issues related to NOVA Parks funding, park management, and cooperative community projects.

Develop and implement management and operational procedures for new/existing facilities:

• Establish and implement operational procedures to meet NOVA Parks policies and standards.
• Routinely review existing policies and procedures; recommend and implement updates and changes that align with NOVA Parks goals.
• Determine the needs of the public and communicate those needs when developing department objectives.
• Develop, recommend, and coordinate the implementation of strategic plan goals and operational objectives.

Perform administrative duties:

• Interpret, apply, and adapt NOVA Parks policies, regulations, and procedures to effectively support personnel, budget, property oversight, and general park operations.
• Attend NOVA Parks board meetings; prepare and present reports and recommendations.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS (minimum)

Education: Graduation from an accredited college/university with a bachelor's degree.

Physical: Non-manual and manual work with strength and dexterity necessary to perform all required tasks, including lifting, stooping, bending, and working in tiring and uncomfortable positions in office and outdoor settings; may perform manual labor in all weather conditions, lift items at or greater than 80 pounds, climb ladders, use tools, and operate equipment.

Experience: Ten years of progressively responsible experience in parks administration and management, or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides:

• Extensive knowledge of the principles, methods, and practices used in park management, maintenance, and development.
• Extensive knowledge and experience in personnel management.
• Considerable ability to develop comprehensive operating procedures and performance standards and to evaluate programs and employees against those standards.
• Considerable ability to review and analyze expenditures and revenues in determining appropriate budgets.
• Considerable ability to effectively communicate with the public and special interest groups and to provide a strong public relations program.
• Considerable ability to interpret and explain NOVA Parks policies, rules, and procedures to employees and to the public.
• Considerable ability to communicate clearly and effectively, with emphasis on preparing and presenting accurate reports.
• Ability to maintain knowledge of current trends and developments in the park and recreation profession.
• Considerable knowledge of the materials, equipment, and procedures involved in park maintenance.
• Considerable ability to analyze facts and to exercise sound judgment in arriving at conclusions.
• Considerable ability to carry out NOVA Parks goals and objectives through planned work projects and programs.
• Considerable knowledge of business management practices and procedures.
• Considerable knowledge of park and recreational revenue facilities and other resources.
• Knowledge of outdoor education and historic interpretation.
• Possession of or ability to obtain and maintain a driver’s license with safe driving record.
• Ability to obtain/maintain required certifications.
• Regular and predictable attendance is an essential function of this position.
• Working knowledge of personal computers and various software applications.
• Availability for flexible work schedules and call-in emergency situations.

Duties and responsibilities are designed to be the essential elements of the job. They do not preclude the performance of related, or even unrelated, jobs which may be necessary to properly and efficiently complete all work assignments. NOVA Parks reserves the right to amend job specifications to meet current needs.

Benefits: This position is a benefit eligible position. Benefits include medical and dental insurance, life insurance, long-term disability, retirement plan, and more.

Background Check/Testing: The successful candidate will be required to undergo a thorough pre-employment background check as well as a pre-employment drug screening.

It is the policy of the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority to prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, sex, color, national origin, religion, age, veteran status, political affiliation, genetics, or disability in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.

Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact 703-352-5900 and ask for Human Resources for assistance.