What are the responsibilities and job description for the Park Manager position at Wake County?
What You'll Be Doing
At Lake Crabtree County Park, you’ll play an active role in delivering some of our community’s most in-demand services, including outdoor recreation, environmental education and nature-based experiences. We’re looking for an innovative Park Manager with proven experience ensuring visitors have safe and enjoyable park experiences through visitor services, preservation, stewardship, educational and recreational programming, and overall park management. In this role, you’ll engage regularly with visitors, lead efforts that enhance the guest experience and support the day-to-day operations and maintenance of park facilities.
Lake Crabtree has a unique history, originally developed as part of the Crabtree Creek Watershed Project to reduce flooding, erosion and property damage. Since opening to the public in 1988, it has become a valued destination for recreation and connection to nature. Today, the park features 73 acres of parkland, a 520-acre flood control lake and nearly 400 acres of Haleys Branch Trails—offering endless opportunities for exploration.
As part of a growing and evolving park system, you’ll also contribute to an exciting period of transformation. The 2018 Parks, Greenways, Recreation and Open Space bond included major investments in Lake Crabtree, with improvements focused on enhancing and expanding park facilities. These upgrades are expected to be completed by summer 2027, making this an exciting time to be part of the team. Learn more at www.wake.gov/parks/lakecrabtree
Our Park Managers Are Working Managers Who
Wake County is one of the fastest-growing regions in the nation and the most populous county in North Carolina, home to more than 1.1 million residents. Recognized nationally and internationally by publications such as Money, Fortune, and Time, Wake County consistently ranks among the best places to live, work and play—and it’s easy to see why. Within the Community Services Department, the Parks, Recreation and Open Space Division (PROS) is a dedicated and passionate team committed to creating welcoming, accessible park spaces for all. Our Mission PROS preserves open space, promotes environmental stewardship, and provides equitable and inclusive education and outdoor recreation opportunities for a diverse and growing community. We connect people to what matters most—history, nature and outdoor experiences. As part of our team, you’ll engage directly with the community, deliver meaningful services valued by residents, and support the daily operations of our parks and facilities. PROS currently manages nine parks and three nature preserves, offering preservation, education and recreation opportunities 361 days a year. Our parks continue to grow in popularity, welcoming nearly 2 million visitors annually. As we plan and develop new facilities, there has never been a more exciting time to join our team. Discover more at www.wake.gov/parks
Required
The Basics (Required Education and Experience)
Location: Lake Crabtree County Park Morrisville, NC 27560
Employment Type: Regular
Work Schedule: 40 hours per week including mornings, evenings, nights, weekends and holidays.
Hiring Range: $61,576 - $104,676
Market Range: 61,569.00 - 104,676.00
Please include ALL prior work experience on your application and resume.
Posting Closing Date: 7:00 pm on 5/17/2026
What Makes Wake Great Equal Opportunity Statement Background Check Statement Emergency Service Worker Statement
What Makes Wake Great
Consistently ranked high among the best places to live and work in America, Wake County is home to NC State University, Research Triangle Park, and 2006 Stanley Cup Champions, the Carolina Hurricanes. In addition to being Wake County’s seat of government, Raleigh is also the center of state government, with the Capitol Building, legislature and many state government offices located in Raleigh. With an estimated population of just over 1.2 million residents, Wake County is North Carolina’s most populous county. Entertainment, recreation, and art and culture abound with the North Carolina Museum of Art, JC Raulston Arboretum, and the Neuse River Trail all in the heart of Wake County. Wake County uses the Council/Manager form of government. Currently, the seven members of the Board of Commissioners are elected by district on a partisan basis and serve four-year terms. In Fall 2026, two at-large seats will be added for nine total commissioners. The County is regarded as a fiscally responsible and well-managed government, enjoying a AAA bond rating. The County’s FY2026 General Fund budget is approximately $2.1 billion, and the County has over 5,100 full time employees. Wake County Government came in at #2 on the Healthiest Employers list for 2024. This year, US News & World Report ranked Raleigh #5 on its list of Best Places to Live, and the Milken Institute ranked Raleigh #1 on its 2025 list of Best-Performing Cities.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Wake County provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics.
Background Check Statement
Position may require a background check that may include: criminal, credit, motor vehicle, education, and sexual offender registry or others based on job requirements. Unless required by state law, a record of conviction will not automatically exclude you from consideration for employment. Wake County Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Emergency Service Worker Statement
In the event of an emergency, as determined by the County Manager or designee, participation in preparedness and response operations should be expected. Employee may be required to fill a temporary assignment in a role different from standard duties, work hours and/or work location in preparation for, during and after the emergency. Employee may also be required to participate in relevant exercises and regular preparedness training.
At Lake Crabtree County Park, you’ll play an active role in delivering some of our community’s most in-demand services, including outdoor recreation, environmental education and nature-based experiences. We’re looking for an innovative Park Manager with proven experience ensuring visitors have safe and enjoyable park experiences through visitor services, preservation, stewardship, educational and recreational programming, and overall park management. In this role, you’ll engage regularly with visitors, lead efforts that enhance the guest experience and support the day-to-day operations and maintenance of park facilities.
Lake Crabtree has a unique history, originally developed as part of the Crabtree Creek Watershed Project to reduce flooding, erosion and property damage. Since opening to the public in 1988, it has become a valued destination for recreation and connection to nature. Today, the park features 73 acres of parkland, a 520-acre flood control lake and nearly 400 acres of Haleys Branch Trails—offering endless opportunities for exploration.
As part of a growing and evolving park system, you’ll also contribute to an exciting period of transformation. The 2018 Parks, Greenways, Recreation and Open Space bond included major investments in Lake Crabtree, with improvements focused on enhancing and expanding park facilities. These upgrades are expected to be completed by summer 2027, making this an exciting time to be part of the team. Learn more at www.wake.gov/parks/lakecrabtree
Our Park Managers Are Working Managers Who
- Deliver positive, innovative and forward-thinking leadership for Lake Crabtree County Park and the Wake County Parks, Recreation and Open Space Division.
- Develop and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with internal teams, community partners and stakeholders.
- Demonstrate a commitment to engagement, adapting to meet the needs of a diverse community in a dynamic environment.
- Oversee educational and recreational programming and guide maintenance planning efforts in collaboration with internal and external partners.
- Oversee specialized operations including the Boathouse, boat rental program and dual use trail system (mountain biking and hiking), ensuring safe, high-quality and well-maintained experiences for all users.
- Work closely with Team Wake—including General Services, Communications, Human Resources, Community Services and more—to effectively promote and manage park services and initiatives.
- Supervise, mentor and support a team of regular and temporary staff, fostering professional growth and a positive team culture.
- Oversee daily operations, maintenance functions and natural resource management to ensure safe, sustainable and well-maintained park environments.
- Uphold park policies and procedures to maintain high standards of service, safety and staff accountability.
- Develop, monitor and manage the park’s budget and resource allocations effectively.
- Provide excellent customer service while ensuring our park facilities are welcoming, open, clean, and safe for the community to enjoy.
- Assist with EVERYTHING else that it takes to operate a park.
Wake County is one of the fastest-growing regions in the nation and the most populous county in North Carolina, home to more than 1.1 million residents. Recognized nationally and internationally by publications such as Money, Fortune, and Time, Wake County consistently ranks among the best places to live, work and play—and it’s easy to see why. Within the Community Services Department, the Parks, Recreation and Open Space Division (PROS) is a dedicated and passionate team committed to creating welcoming, accessible park spaces for all. Our Mission PROS preserves open space, promotes environmental stewardship, and provides equitable and inclusive education and outdoor recreation opportunities for a diverse and growing community. We connect people to what matters most—history, nature and outdoor experiences. As part of our team, you’ll engage directly with the community, deliver meaningful services valued by residents, and support the daily operations of our parks and facilities. PROS currently manages nine parks and three nature preserves, offering preservation, education and recreation opportunities 361 days a year. Our parks continue to grow in popularity, welcoming nearly 2 million visitors annually. As we plan and develop new facilities, there has never been a more exciting time to join our team. Discover more at www.wake.gov/parks
Required
The Basics (Required Education and Experience)
- Bachelor's degree in Parks, History, Parks Administration or related field
- Three years of experience in parks administration or historical sites management
- CPR certification within one year of employment
- First Aid certification within one year of employment
- Valid Driver's License and "safe" driving record
- Equivalent education and experience are accepted
- Please include ALL prior work experience on your application and resume.
- Five or more years of experience managing and operating parks
- Experience supervising full-time and entry-level personnel
- Experience engaging diverse populations in park visitation
- Experience using a variety of technological applications
- Experience working in or with non-profit organizations
- Involvement with historical and natural resource management, including aquatic environments
- Experience with event planning and coordination
- Holds or is eligible for certifications such as CPRP, CPRE, or NC Environmental Education Certification
- Collaborative Team Leadership: Leads teams across locations; supports cross‑training and shared learning.
- Communication & Relationships: Builds strong, positive relationships with staff, volunteers, and community partners.
- Visionary, Solutions‑Oriented: Engages others to develop ideas, solve problems, and move goals forward.
- Inclusive Culture Builder: Fosters an environment where diverse perspectives are encouraged and valued.
- Innovative Mindset: Promotes creativity, new approaches, and continuous improvement.
- Resilient & Adaptable: Stays focused and effective in changing, fast‑paced environments.
- Leads by Example: Demonstrates professionalism, accountability, and a hands‑on work ethic.
Location: Lake Crabtree County Park Morrisville, NC 27560
Employment Type: Regular
Work Schedule: 40 hours per week including mornings, evenings, nights, weekends and holidays.
Hiring Range: $61,576 - $104,676
Market Range: 61,569.00 - 104,676.00
Please include ALL prior work experience on your application and resume.
Posting Closing Date: 7:00 pm on 5/17/2026
What Makes Wake Great Equal Opportunity Statement Background Check Statement Emergency Service Worker Statement
What Makes Wake Great
Consistently ranked high among the best places to live and work in America, Wake County is home to NC State University, Research Triangle Park, and 2006 Stanley Cup Champions, the Carolina Hurricanes. In addition to being Wake County’s seat of government, Raleigh is also the center of state government, with the Capitol Building, legislature and many state government offices located in Raleigh. With an estimated population of just over 1.2 million residents, Wake County is North Carolina’s most populous county. Entertainment, recreation, and art and culture abound with the North Carolina Museum of Art, JC Raulston Arboretum, and the Neuse River Trail all in the heart of Wake County. Wake County uses the Council/Manager form of government. Currently, the seven members of the Board of Commissioners are elected by district on a partisan basis and serve four-year terms. In Fall 2026, two at-large seats will be added for nine total commissioners. The County is regarded as a fiscally responsible and well-managed government, enjoying a AAA bond rating. The County’s FY2026 General Fund budget is approximately $2.1 billion, and the County has over 5,100 full time employees. Wake County Government came in at #2 on the Healthiest Employers list for 2024. This year, US News & World Report ranked Raleigh #5 on its list of Best Places to Live, and the Milken Institute ranked Raleigh #1 on its 2025 list of Best-Performing Cities.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Wake County provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics.
Background Check Statement
Position may require a background check that may include: criminal, credit, motor vehicle, education, and sexual offender registry or others based on job requirements. Unless required by state law, a record of conviction will not automatically exclude you from consideration for employment. Wake County Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Emergency Service Worker Statement
In the event of an emergency, as determined by the County Manager or designee, participation in preparedness and response operations should be expected. Employee may be required to fill a temporary assignment in a role different from standard duties, work hours and/or work location in preparation for, during and after the emergency. Employee may also be required to participate in relevant exercises and regular preparedness training.
Salary : $61,576 - $104,676