Parks and Recreation Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of urban development, the role of Parks and Recreation Managers has become increasingly crucial.

As our communities grow, the demand for skilled professionals who can design, manage, and enhance our public spaces becomes more pronounced.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from a Parks and Recreation Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the intricacies of parks and recreation management,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Parks and Recreation Manager job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Parks and Recreation Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Parks and Recreation Managers oversee the operations and programming of public parks, facilities, and recreational services within a community.

They play a critical role in enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors by maintaining beautiful and accessible recreational spaces and coordinating a variety of public events.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Oversee the management and maintenance of parks, recreational facilities, and other public spaces
• Plan and implement various recreational programs and events
• Ensure parks and facilities comply with local, state, and federal regulations
• Manage budgets, including the allocation of funds for maintenance, staffing, and new projects
• Hire, train and supervise parks and recreation staff
• Work with community leaders and public to determine the needs and preferences for park facilities and programs
• Develop partnerships with community organizations to enhance park services and programs
• Manage the procurement and maintenance of necessary equipment and supplies
• Ensure the safety and cleanliness of parks and facilities
• Handle public inquiries and complaints in a courteous and effective manner
• Evaluate the effectiveness of programs and services and implement improvements as necessary
• Promote parks and recreation programs through various marketing and public relation efforts

 

Parks and Recreation Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for an experienced and passionate Parks and Recreation Manager to oversee our organization’s parks and recreational facilities.

The Parks and Recreation Manager will be responsible for planning, organizing and directing activities related to parks and recreational facilities, managing staff, preparing and managing budgets, and ensuring the safety and quality of parks and recreational facilities.

Our ideal candidate has a strong understanding of recreational programming, budget management, and community engagement, with a dedication to creating and maintaining high-quality, safe and enjoyable public spaces.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement parks and recreation programs that meet community needs
• Manage, supervise, and evaluate staff members
• Coordinate maintenance and repairs of parks and recreational facilities
• Prepare and manage budgets for parks and recreational services
• Develop safety policies and ensure compliance with safety standards
• Work closely with community groups to identify needs and opportunities for parks and recreation services
• Coordinate with other city departments on projects impacting parks and recreational facilities
• Manage contracts and agreements with vendors and partners
• Provide regular reports to city council or other governing bodies

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Parks and Recreation Manager or similar role
• Knowledge of parks and recreation management principles
• Experience in planning, administering and evaluating recreation programs
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Experience in budget preparation and management
• Knowledge of safety standards and risk management related to parks and recreation
• A degree in parks and recreation management, public administration or a related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Parks and Recreation Manager
• Work Environment: This role requires both office work and outdoor work in parks and recreational facilities. Some travel may be required for meetings or site visits.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Parks and Recreation or City Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $60,000 minimum to $95,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Parks and Recreation Manager Do?

Parks and Recreation Managers work for city, county, or national parks, and they are responsible for overseeing the daily operations of public recreational facilities.

Their main role includes the planning, organizing, and directing of services for parks, sports facilities, community centers, and other recreational areas.

This involves the management of staff members, scheduling facility use, and ensuring the facilities are safe and well maintained.

Parks and Recreation Managers also develop and implement recreational programs for various age groups and interests.

These programs may include sports leagues, outdoor adventures, arts and crafts, educational programs, and special events.

They are also responsible for managing the park’s budget, which includes the allocation of funds for staff salaries, equipment purchases, park maintenance, and recreational programs.

Furthermore, they may be involved in the planning and development of new parks or recreational facilities, and are often required to work with community leaders, government officials, and the public to determine the need for these facilities.

Additionally, they play a crucial role in promoting the importance of parks and recreational activities for physical and mental health, community engagement, and environmental conservation.

In times of emergencies or natural disasters, they may also be tasked with leading and coordinating response efforts to ensure the safety of the park and its visitors.

 

Parks and Recreation Manager Qualifications and Skills

A Parks and Recreation Manager should have a diverse set of skills and qualifications to effectively manage and improve public parks, facilities, and recreational programs, including:

• Excellent project management skills to plan, organize and control multiple projects at the same time.
• Leadership and interpersonal skills to manage a diverse team of employees, contractors, and volunteers, and to ensure effective communication and collaboration amongst them.
• Strong budgeting and financial management skills to oversee the fiscal resources of the department and ensure the effective use of funds.
• Knowledge of safety and compliance regulations to ensure all parks and facilities are safe for public use and comply with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Customer service skills to interact with the public, respond to their inquiries and concerns, and ensure their satisfaction with parks and recreation services.
• Problem-solving skills to address any operational or management issues that may arise.
• Environmental knowledge to ensure that all activities and operations are carried out in an environmentally responsible manner.

 

Parks and Recreation Manager Experience Requirements

Entry-level Parks and Recreation Managers may typically have between 1 to 3 years of experience in park operations, public relations, recreation programming, or another related field.

This could often be gained through relevant internships, part-time roles or even volunteering at local parks or recreational centers.

Aspiring Parks and Recreation Managers can also gain valuable on-the-job experience in roles such as Park Superintendent, Recreational Program Coordinator, or Facilities Manager.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often hone their skills and knowledge in such roles and may be expected to have a deep understanding of park maintenance, program development, and public safety measures.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in the field usually have some form of leadership experience and may be considered for senior or supervisory roles.

They may also be expected to have a strong background in community outreach, budgeting, and personnel management, as well as experience in liaising with local government or nonprofit organizations.

For all levels of experience, prospective Parks and Recreation Managers are expected to have a passion for outdoor activities, conservation efforts, and community service.

 

Parks and Recreation Manager Education and Training Requirements

Parks and Recreation Managers typically have a bachelor’s degree in parks and recreation management, leisure studies, public administration, or another related field.

Their coursework usually includes subjects like business administration, landscape architecture, natural resources management, and hospitality.

Many Parks and Recreation Managers also obtain a master’s degree in a similar discipline or in business administration, which can provide advanced training in the management and administration of public services.

Some states require Parks and Recreation Managers to be certified by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA).

Certification generally requires a combination of education and experience, and candidates must also pass an examination.

In addition, it is beneficial for Parks and Recreation Managers to have a strong background in customer service and knowledge of outdoor activities.

Continuous professional development through workshops, seminars, and conferences can also help stay updated with the latest trends in the field.

Volunteer work or internships in parks and recreation departments can provide valuable practical experience and enhance job prospects.

 

Parks and Recreation Manager Salary Expectations

A Parks and Recreation Manager can expect an average salary of $59,956 (USD) per year.

The actual salary may vary based on years of relevant experience, the size and location of the park or recreational facility, and the employing organization.

 

Parks and Recreation Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Parks and Recreation Manager need?

Parks and Recreation Managers should possess excellent communication and leadership skills to manage staff and interact with the public.

They need to have good planning and organizational skills to manage various park facilities and recreational programs.

Knowledge of safety regulations and ability to manage budgets are also critical skills for this role.

 

Do Parks and Recreation Managers need a degree?

Most Parks and Recreation Managers need at least a bachelor’s degree in parks and recreation, public administration, or a related field.

Some positions may require a master’s degree.

They also need substantial experience in parks and recreation management, often at least five years, with a track record of increasing responsibility.

 

What should you look for in a Parks and Recreation Manager resume?

A Parks and Recreation Manager resume should highlight experience in managing parks, recreational facilities, or public programs.

Look for a solid history of budget management, staff supervision, and facility management.

Certifications from organizations like the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) can also be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Parks and Recreation Manager?

A good Parks and Recreation Manager is passionate about the outdoors and community engagement.

They should have strong leadership skills and the ability to motivate their team.

They must be able to handle multi-tasking and problem-solving in a fast-paced environment.

Being detail-oriented and having strong decision-making skills are also key traits for a successful Parks and Recreation Manager.

 

What are the daily duties of a Parks and Recreation Manager?

Parks and Recreation Managers oversee the operations of parks, recreational facilities, and community centers.

This might include scheduling maintenance, managing staff, coordinating events and programs, working with community groups, and ensuring safety regulations are followed.

They may also be responsible for budget planning and oversight, as well as communicating with local government officials and the public.

 

Is it difficult to hire Parks and Recreation Managers?

Hiring Parks and Recreation Managers can be challenging because it requires a unique combination of skills in management, finance, public relations, and knowledge about parks and recreational facilities.

It is also a role that often requires a substantial amount of experience.

However, with a thorough recruitment process and competitive compensation, it is possible to attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of being a Parks and Recreation Manager.

And you know what?

It’s not just about overseeing parks and recreational facilities.

It’s about creating vibrant community spaces, one park at a time.

With our comprehensive Parks and Recreation Manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to embark on your career journey.

But why stop there?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your best bet for precision-crafted listings or for refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every park and recreation program is a part of a larger community tapestry.

Let’s create that vibrant community. Together.

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