Chief of Park Maintenance and Turf Management, Operations Officer III; NCS - Baltimore Re

Chief of Park Maintenance and Turf Management, Operations Officer III (NCS) - Baltimore City Recreation and Parks

Welcome to the City of Baltimore! Experience the reward of a fulfilling career and enjoy the added element of excitement in a vibrant, diverse atmosphere. The City of Baltimore offers limitless opportunities to help drive social impact, both on the job and in the community, while serving its citizens. Join us in making Baltimore a great place to live and work.

In the City of Baltimore, we hire great people and provide them with the skills and opportunities to grow toward their career aspirations. If you are looking for a career change or are interested in learning more, explore our opportunities and benefits programs. We are excited to have you as a part of the City of Baltimore Team! The city offers medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, optional life, AD&D, and FSA plans.

This office also supplies wellness programs, support groups, and workshops. You can learn about our benefits here: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./benefits

The Chief of Park Maintenance & Turf Management oversees the planning, coordination, and implementation of all park maintenance, turf management, and horticultural operations within Baltimore City Recreation and Parks. This leadership role is responsible for ensuring that the city’s parks, athletic fields, landscaped areas, and open spaces are maintained to the highest standards of safety, functionality, and aesthetics. The incumbent will supervise professional, technical, and field maintenance staff, manage operational budgets, oversee contracted services, and develop strategic initiatives to enhance sustainability and efficiency in park and turf operations.

• Direct and manage the operations of the Park Maintenance and Turf Management divisions, ensuring effective maintenance of athletic fields, open spaces, and landscaped areas citywide.
• Develop and implement comprehensive turf and landscape maintenance plans, including aeration, fertilization, irrigation, and pest management programs.
• Supervise, train, and evaluate staff, including supervisors, equipment operators, and laborers, ensuring adherence to safety and performance standards.
• Collaborate with Recreation, Forestry, Capital Projects, and Facility Management divisions to coordinate maintenance activities and support park improvement initiatives.
• Monitor and manage division budgets, expenditures, and inventory of equipment and supplies.
• Prepare and present reports, maintenance schedules, and performance metrics to department leadership.
• Oversee contract development, procurement, and vendor management for outsourced maintenance and turf services.
• Develop and enforce maintenance standards and operational procedures consistent with best practices in urban park management.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, and labor regulations.
• Respond to emergency maintenance situations, weather events, and public concerns as needed.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Parks and Recreation Management, Turfgrass Management, Horticulture, Environmental Science, Public Administration, or a related field.

Experience: Have five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in park maintenance, grounds management, or turf operations, including at least two (2) years in a supervisory or managerial role.

OR Have an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Licenses, Registrations, and Certificates: Have a valid Maryland Class C Noncommercial driver’s license or an equivalent driver's license and be eligible to obtain a Baltimore City driver’s permit. Provisional driver’s licenses are not acceptable.

NOTE: You must upload a copy of your valid driver’s license with the application at the time of applying.

• Comprehensive knowledge of modern turf and park maintenance techniques, equipment, and best practices.
• Strong leadership, communication, and team development skills.
• Ability to plan, organize, and manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.
• Proficiency in budgeting, data management,…