Director of Park Services

Please include your cover letter and resume. 

PURPOSE OF POSITION:

The Director of Park Services provides highly responsible oversight and leadership for the administration of the Park Services Division, including strategic planning, budgeting, personnel management, and contract procurement and management.  The Director of Park Services oversees planning, acquisition, design, construction, maintenance, and operations of the District’s physical park assets. The position serves as a member of the District’s leadership team and has direct engagement with the Board of Park Commissioners, staff, community partners, vendors, consultants, contractors, and the public. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES/DUTIES:

1. Creates and manages the vision, mission, goals, and strategic plan for the Park Services Division to align and support the mission, vision, strategic priorities, and needs of the organization.   
2. Develops and implements the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for the District. Identifies and implements priorities for capital purchases, improvements, and planned major maintenance. Develops, maintains, and implements a long-range plan for asset acquisition, development, alterations, and planned major maintenance.
3. Plans and directs the implementation of a comprehensive maintenance and facility operations program and total asset management for all District physical assets, including but not limited to parks, properties, athletic fields and courts, structures, equipment, facilities, infrastructure, and equipment. 
4. Oversees the creation, implementation, and maintenance of long-range planning documents, including the comprehensive Park, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS) Plan. 
5. Directs capital improvements and the perpetual maintenance and operations of the District’s parks, properties, and open spaces in a manner that supports the mission, goals, and objectives of the District. 
6. Oversees the application for and maintenance of grants.
7. Develops, implements, and manages annual capital and operating budgets with support from staff. 
8. Acts as the District Safety Officer. Ensures District-wide operations comply with applicable regulatory requirements and District policies and procedures. Implements, maintains and oversees District safety programs. 
9. Directs and oversees implementation of the Division work plan, assigned work, activities, and projects. 
10. Recommends, develops, and maintains Division policies and procedures to advance District goals and comply with applicable regulations. 

1. Coaches, mentors, and trains direct report staff in support of District goals, objectives, policies, and procedures. Provides continuous performance management and conducts employee performance evaluations. Addresses performance and/or behavior issues, clarifying expectations and providing feedback.  
2. Creates a culture where information sharing, team-based resolutions, cross-training, and process improvements are encouraged, and staff is held accountable for goal achievement and results.
3. Works with Division staff to proactively identify opportunities to improve systems, processes, and services.  
4. Prioritizes and organizes work plans based on objectives and desired outcomes.  Collaborates and shares responsibility for decisions and monitors progress toward goals by establishing strong feedback channels.
5. Creates and maintains an inclusive work environment that respects diverse ideas, backgrounds, and styles. Supports diversity through the selection, management, and retention of diverse employees. Creates, drives, and maintains an employee engagement culture.

1. Performs other duties as assigned. 

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required Experience:

Required Education:

Professional Licenses/Certifications: None.

Knowledge/Skills: 

• Knowledge of professional practices required for effective capital development, including planning, design, and construction. 
• Knowledge of professional practices required for park and physical asset maintenance and operations.
• Knowledge of public and stakeholder involvement best practices and principles. 

• Effectively develops, communicates, and manages departmental operating and capital project budgets.

• Effectively procures and manages consultants, contractors, and vendors in accordance with applicable statutes and regulatory requirements.
• Plans and directs the work of the Division. Prioritizes and organizes work plans based on objectives and desired outcomes. Assesses the work to be performed, organizes the work, and sets appropriate goals, priorities, and realistic time parameters.
• Creates as environment for employees to work cooperatively and collaboratively with internal and external colleagues, the Board of Park Commissioners, contractors, partners, and the public.
• Assesses situations effectively, identifies solutions, and takes initiative with minimal supervision.
• Effectively applies a thorough knowledge of the organization and its policies, procedures, and regulations to all actions.
• Skilled in conflict resolution and providing excellent customer service to a broad range of participants and constituents. 
• Completes multiple tasks simultaneously and accommodates shifts in priorities. 
• Provides high-quality, responsive, and personable customer service to a broad range of internal and external customers.
• Handles sensitive situations and confidential information with professionalism and discretion.
• Possesses excellent written, listening, and verbal communication skills. 
• Produces and delivers professional-quality reports and other materials.
• Possesses strong attention to detail and high level of accuracy.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, Microsoft Project, Adobe or Bluebeam, asset management software, facility scheduling software, and accounting software. 

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS: 

• Work is performed primarily in an office setting. Occasionally work will be performed outdoors and on construction sites, which may include exposure to diverse weather and environmental conditions. 
• Prolonged periods of time may be spent using a computer, telephone, and other office equipment.
• Some local traveling will be required for meetings and visiting District facilities and project sites.
• Valid Washington driver's license (required).
• The position will require some walking, standing, and bending.