Director of Parks and Recreation Programming

Distinguishing Features of the Class

The Director of Parks and Recreation oversees the operation of Parks and Recreation through delegation of responsibility to Park Supervisors and assigned personnel, for the day-to-operations and administration of a recreation program and municipal park system.  Work involves coordination of community programs in recreation through the development and use of appropriate facilities, equipment and trained personnel, including volunteers, in the administration of the maintenance of parks, public recreation facilities and other public grounds.  The incumbent advises the Deputy Commissioner on the operation of the Parks and Recreation as well as departmental policies and procedures, however, s/he exercises considerable independence in developing and carrying out policy decisions and departmental goals.

Typical Work Activities

Plans, directs, inspects and reviews parks, playgrounds, swimming pools, ice rinks, golf courses, tennis courts and ball parks, buildings and related facilities, in the operations, maintenance and repair activities for a citywide park system;

Oversees the maintenance program of trees, shrubs, flowers and grass areas, and the cleaning of park areas and comfort stations;

Works with departmental supervisors to plan, organize and implement work programs within their areas of responsibility;

Oversees the planning and implementation of city-sponsored parks and recreational community programs;

• develops and coordinates a public relations program and works in conjunction with non-profit organizations and private businesses for support of public and private funding;

• recruits, interviews and trains volunteers to run special programs and events i.e. plantings, clean-ups, community projects, etc.;

Develops and implements departmental budget;

• forecasts for funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials and supplies for day-to-day operations as well as additional funds for special events i.e. ;

• researches and develops funding sources for programs through federal, state and local agencies including grants, legislation and related funding programs;

Oversees, monitors and approves the requisition of materials, supplies, equipment and other expenditures of the department;

Advises and consults with the Deputy Commissioner regarding developments and improvements of the Parks program;

Performs related duties as required.

Full Performance Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Personal Characteristics

• Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of public administration including departmental personnel and budget preparation and administration;
• Thorough knowledge of organizational and management practices as applied to the analysis and evaluation of programs, policies and operations;
• Good knowledge of public relations principles, methods and techniques;
• Ability to understand and apply federal, state and local policies, procedures, laws and regulations;
• Ability to develop policies and procedures;
• Ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing;
• Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with both public and private agencies, community organizations, etc.
• Self-motivation; tact; courtesy; willingness to work and be available 24/7;
• Physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor Degree from an accredited college or university and five years of full-time administrative experience in the management of a large organization or agency that includes:  program management; developing policies and procedures; budget forecasting, preparation and administration; 

OR 

Associate Degree from an accredited college or university and eight years of full-time administrative experience in the management of a large organization or agency that includes:  program management; developing policies and procedures; budget forecasting, preparation and administration

OR 

Ten years of full-time administrative experience in the management of a large organization or agency that includes:  program management; developing policies and procedures; budget forecasting, preparation and administration

Note:  Proof of education must be presented at time of filing application.

Special Requirement

Possession of a current NYS Driver’s License that must be presented at time of filing application and maintained during employment.

Salary

$102,325