Parks Manager

JOB OVERVIEW Under the direction of the Public Works Director, the Parks Manager is a working manager responsible for leading and actively participating in the maintenance, repair, improvement, and operation of all City parks, green spaces, athletic fields, playgrounds, trails, and recreational facilities. This position is not solely administrative; the Parks Manager is expected to work alongside the parks crew, demonstrate proper maintenance techniques, operate equipment, and provide hands-on training and supervision to a developing team.

The Parks Manager ensures that City parks and facilities are safe, clean, attractive, functional, and welcoming for residents and visitors. This position oversees daily work assignments, staff development, equipment and material needs, budgets, safety compliance, and long-term improvement projects.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES Hands-On Park Maintenance:

Actively perform and oversee daily maintenance, repair, and improvement work in City parks, including mowing, trimming, irrigation repairs and installations, landscaping, planting, pruning, fertilizing, weed control, playground maintenance, field maintenance, trail upkeep, cleaning, and minor construction projects.

Working Crew Leadership:

Lead by example by working alongside full-time, part-time, and seasonal employees. Train and mentor staff, especially newer and younger employees, on proper work methods, safe equipment operation, landscaping practices, irrigation repairs and installations, maintenance standards, and customer service expectations.

Daily Work Planning and Supervision:

Develop daily and weekly work schedules, assign tasks, inspect completed work, and ensure maintenance priorities are addressed efficiently. Adjust work assignments as needed based on weather conditions, emergencies, events, and seasonal needs.

Equipment Operation and Maintenance:

Safely operate and train staff on the use of trucks, trailers, mowers, tractors, utility vehicles, irrigation equipment, hand tools, power tools, and other parks maintenance equipment. Coordinate preventative maintenance and repairs to keep equipment in safe working condition.

Landscaping and Horticulture:

Plan, perform, and supervise landscaping and beautification efforts, including the installation and maintenance of trees, shrubs, turf, flower beds, and other horticultural features. Ensure staff use proper planting, pruning, irrigation, and seasonal maintenance practices.

Irrigation and Water Management:

Oversee and assist with the operation, inspection, maintenance, programming, and repair of irrigation systems. Promote responsible water use and identify opportunities for water conservation.

Facility, Playground, and Sports Field Maintenance:

Inspect, maintain, and repair park amenities, including playgrounds, restrooms, pavilions, sports courts, athletic fields, trails, fencing, benches, signs, and other recreational facilities. Ensure all areas meet cleanliness and safety standards.

Safety and Compliance:

Maintain a safe work environment for employees and the public. Ensure staff follow applicable safety procedures, use appropriate personal protective equipment, and receive training on equipment and job-site safety. Conduct or coordinate regular playground and facility inspections and maintain required documentation.

Budget and Resource Management:

Assist with developing and managing the parks budget, including staffing, equipment, supplies, repairs, and capital improvement needs. Monitor inventory and make recommendations for purchases, replacements, and upgrades.

Park Programs, Events, and Community Support:

Coordinate with City staff, community groups, and event organizers to prepare parks and facilities for recreational programs, public events, tournaments, and community activities. Assist with setup, cleanup, and facility needs as necessary.

Public and Stakeholder Communication:

Respond professionally to concerns and questions from residents, City officials, park users, vendors, and community organizations. Promote positive relationships and encourage responsible use of City parks.

Documentation and Reporting:

Maintain accurate records related to maintenance activities, inspections, repairs, equipment maintenance, staff training, work orders, expenses, and inventory. Prepare reports and provide updates to City management as requested.

Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship:

Promote sustainable maintenance practices, including water conservation, responsible chemical use, waste…