Deputy Parks & Recreation Director - Special Operations Division

Deputy Parks & Recreation Director - Special Operations Division

The Parks & Recreation Department is the steward of more than 41,000 acres of desert parks and mountain preserves, 200 miles of trails, 29 pools, 8 golf courses, 16 specialty areas, 189 flatland parks, 10 preserve areas, and 33 community centers. The department manages a $158 million operating budget and a $422 million five‑year capital improvement program funded by the Phoenix Parks and Preserve Initiative.

The Special Operations Deputy Director manages a division responsible for the maintenance and operation of the city’s aquatic and recreation facilities, including 29 aquatic facilities, 3 recirculated splash pads, 8 golf courses, 4 sports complexes, forestry, flood irrigation, specialized trades, water conservation, and environmental code compliance. The role also serves as the department liaison with Emergency Management, the Office of Environmental Programs, the Office of Heat Response and Mitigation, and the Public Works Department on citywide initiatives and projects.

Deputies report to an Assistant Parks & Recreation Director and manage 103 FTEs and 50.7 part‑time FTEs. The position requires on‑site work at 1802 W. Encanto Blvd, Phoenix, AZ.

• Oversee the Special Operations Division’s daily operations and strategic initiatives.
• Ensure the safety, maintenance, and quality of all aquatic and recreation facilities.
• Liaise with city and regional partners on emergency, environmental, and service delivery matters.
• Manage contracts and agreements with non‑profit and external partners.
• Communicate effectively with community groups, non‑profits, other city departments, Council, and the Mayor’s Office.

• Five years of progressively responsible experience in government or large agency management positions.
• Three years of supervisory experience in an administrative role with program and budget responsibility, including capital project management.
• Bachelor’s degree in recreation or parks management, public or business administration, or finance and accounting.
• Other combinations of education and experience that meet the minimum qualifications may be substituted.
• All finalists are subject to a criminal background check.
• Eligibility for personal or city vehicle use on city business, including a valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record.

• Three years of experience managing large operating budgets and capital improvement projects.
• Experience working with community groups, non‑profits, boards, and elected officials.
• Experience managing multi‑site recreation facilities and maintenance programs.
• Experience managing golf courses and sports complexes.
• Experience managing environmental and regulatory compliance.

Hiring Range: $ – $ annually.

Pay Range: $ – $ annually.

• Traditional pension with employer and employee contributions.
• 401(a) and 457 plans with employer contributions.
• Choice of medical HMO, PPO, or HSA/HDHP plans.
• Monthly City contribution of $150 to a Post‑Employment Health Plan.
• Wellness incentive up to $720 annually.
• Dental, vision, and life insurance options.
• Employer‑paid long‑term disability.
• Free bus/light rail pass.
• Tuition reimbursement up to $6,500 per year.
• Paid time off: 13.5 holidays, 12 vacation days, 15 sick and personal leave days.
• Paid parental leave up to 480 hours (12 weeks).
• Federal student loan forgiveness assistance through Savi.

Apply online by completing the required information and attaching a single document containing your cover letter and resume. Highlight experience that relates to the qualifications above. The Final date to receive applications is January 12, 2026. Applicants must submit before 11:59 p.m. on that date.

Deputy Parks & Recreation Director, JC:41660, , USM, MA, Benefits:
Middle Manager.

City of Phoenix is an equal opportunity employer. Ameri Corps, Peace Corps, and other national service alumni who meet the required qualifications are encouraged to apply.