Parks, Grounds & Planning Manager

 The Parks, Grounds & Planning Manager provides leadership and direction for the planning, organization, and daily operation of all Park District parks, grounds, and facility maintenance activities. This includes the care and upkeep of turf, trees, athletic fields, playgrounds, shelters, landscaping, and District buildings and mechanical systems such as HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and structural repairs.

This position ensures all parks and facilities are safe, functional, and welcoming for community use. The Parks, Grounds & Planning Manager leads, trains, and supports a maintenance team of four full-time and three to five seasonal staff, oversees contractors and capital improvement projects, manages department budgets, and co-chairs the District Safety Committee. The role requires both administrative leadership and active involvement in training, guidance, and specialized operational tasks to maintain the highest standards of quality, safety, and efficiency across all Park District properties.

HOURS OF WORK

A normal 40-hour work week, Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., is considered standard. The Parks, Grounds & Planning Manager shall be considered on duty whenever a need exists, including evenings, weekends, and emergencies related to District operations, weather, or events.

Essential Functions/Responsibilities

• Lead, plan, and evaluate all operations of the Parks & Maintenance Department, ensuring parks, grounds, and facilities are maintained to District standards.
   

• Develop and manage annual operating and capital budgets; ensure efficient and responsible use of resources.

• Prepare reports, recommendations, and presentations for the Executive Director and Park Board.

• Develop and maintain annual and seasonal maintenance schedules for parks, buildings, vehicles, and equipment.

• Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate full-time, part-time, and seasonal staff; promote a collaborative and accountable team culture.

• Provide hands-on training and guidance in maintenance procedures, safety practices, and equipment operation.

• Establish and monitor performance standards, maintenance priorities, and preventive maintenance programs.

• Oversee the maintenance, repair, and inspection of all park properties, athletic fields, playgrounds, shelters, landscaping, irrigation, and building systems, including HVAC, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, and mechanical components.

• Coordinate and supervise contractors, vendors, and capital improvement projects; prepare bid specifications and review proposals.

• Ensure compliance with OSHA, PDRMA, and District safety policies; serve as Co-Safety Committee Chair and lead regular safety meetings, inspections, and training.

• Oversee snow and ice removal, storm response, and emergency maintenance operations.

• Maintain accurate records related to inspections, maintenance, equipment, and safety activities.

• Respond promptly and professionally to resident inquiries, service requests, and operational concerns.

• Support District-wide events and recreation programs with logistical and facility assistance.

• Participate in long-range capital planning, sustainability, and risk management initiatives.

• Manage programs including Adopt-a-Park, Memorial Tree/Bench, and tree inventory.

• Attend Park Board and leadership meetings as required.

• Perform other duties as assigned by the Executive Director.

Join Our Team at the Park District of La Grange

Looking for a meaningful career in a community-centered organization? The Park District of La Grange offers a professional, engaging workplace where you can make a real impact. We serve a three-square-mile area in the Village of La Grange, maintaining 67 acres across 11 park sites and delivering more than 1,500 recreation programs each year.

Why Work With Us

Insurance & Benefits

Defined contribution medical insurance plan (two options, employee premium covered)

Dental and vision insurance

District-paid life insurance

Retirement & Financial Programs

Participation in IMRF

Deferred compensation (Nationwide)

Voluntary supplemental insurance (AFLAC)

Time Off & Work-Life Balance

Vacation, personal, sick leave, floating holidays, and 10 paid holidays

Wellness & Employee Perks

Free La Grange Fitness membership

Free or discounted Park District programs

Employee Assistance Program

Employee wellness program

Professional development memberships

Staff social activities

If you’re passionate about parks, recreation, and serving the community, we would love to meet you. Apply today and grow your career with the Park District of La Grange.

Bachelor’s degree in Parks and Recreation Administration, Landscape Architecture, Horticulture, Forestry, Turf Management, or related field preferred.

Minimum of three (3) to five (5) years of experience in a supervisory or management position involving park maintenance, building systems, or construction-related work. Experience may also include related green-industry fields such as turf management, horticulture, landscaping operations, or ground management.
Equivalent combinations of education and/or experience may be substituted for the above requirements.

Minimum Qualifications

• Demonstrated knowledge of principles, methods, materials, tools, and equipment used in parks, grounds, and building maintenance.
• Thorough understanding of horticulture, turf management, forestry, irrigation systems, and athletic field maintenance.
• Working knowledge of building systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, carpentry, and mechanical repairs.
• Knowledge of playground safety standards and inspection procedures.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, plans, and technical specifications.
• Strong understanding of safety and risk management practices, including OSHA and PDRMA regulations.
• Ability to plan, schedule, and direct the work of multiple staff and contractors performing diverse maintenance and construction tasks.
• Experience preparing and administering budgets, purchase orders, and bid specifications.
• Skill in cost estimation, purchasing procedures, and contract management.
• Proficient in computer software and technology, including MS Office 365, GIS, RecTrac, and budgeting software.
• Ability to analyze and evaluate maintenance data to measure efficiency, performance, and preventive maintenance effectiveness.
• Skill in preparing clear written reports, project documentation, and maintenance records.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills with the ability to train, motivate, and evaluate staff.
• Ability to operate and train staff in the safe use of heavy equipment, trucks, tractors, and power tools.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple projects efficiently.

Certifications & Licenses

• Valid Illinois Driver’s license is required. 
• Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) – preferred or ability to obtain within six (6) months of hire.
• Certified Pool Operator (CPO) – preferred or ability to obtain within four (4) months of hire.
• Illinois Pesticide Operator License – preferred or ability to obtain within four (4) months of hire.
• Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) – preferred.
• First Aid/CPR/AED certification required within 120 days of hire.         

Salary : $75,000 - $95,000