Parks and Recreation Planner Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of urbanization and environmental sustainability, the role of Parks and Recreation Planners has never been more essential.

As the world becomes increasingly urbanized, the demand for skilled professionals who can plan, develop, and maintain our parks and recreational spaces is growing.

But let’s delve deeper: What exactly does a Parks and Recreation Planner do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager looking to define the ideal candidate,
• Or simply interested in the inner workings of parks and recreation planning,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Parks and Recreation Planner job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive into it.

Parks and Recreation Planner Duties and Responsibilities

Parks and Recreation Planners are responsible for the development, design, and maintenance of parks, recreational facilities, and programs that foster community engagement and enhance the quality of life.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Develop and implement comprehensive plans for new parks, recreational facilities, and programs in line with community needs
• Work with various stakeholders such as community members, local government officials, and landscape architects in planning parks and recreational areas
• Prepare reports and present proposals related to park development and enhancements
• Analyze community feedback, usage data, and demographic trends to optimize park facilities and programs
• Maintain and enforce safety and sanitation standards in all recreational facilities
• Coordinate with maintenance teams to ensure parks and facilities are kept in optimal condition
• Plan and manage budgets related to park development and maintenance
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations related to park construction and maintenance
• Promote park facilities and programs to the community through various outreach efforts

 

Parks and Recreation Planner Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated and innovative Parks and Recreation Planner to join our team.

In this role, you will be responsible for the planning, development, and maintenance of parks and recreational facilities.

The Parks and Recreation Planner will work to create comprehensive plans for park systems, recreational programming, and environmental conservation efforts.

They will also be involved in community engagement initiatives, capital projects, and grant applications.

Our ideal candidate has a strong understanding of urban planning principles, environmental issues, and community development.

 

Responsibilities

• Plan and develop comprehensive parks and recreation systems
• Coordinate with architects, engineers, and landscape architects on park design and construction
• Work collaboratively with community groups and government agencies
• Develop and manage grant applications for park and recreational projects
• Engage with the community through workshops, surveys, and public meetings
• Prepare and present reports on project progress and future plans
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations
• Monitor and evaluate effectiveness of recreation programs

 

Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in urban planning, landscape architecture, environmental science, or a related field
• Experience in park planning, landscape design, or a related field
• Strong knowledge of GIS mapping and CAD software
• Excellent project management skills
• Strong understanding of environmental policies and regulations
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders
• Membership in a relevant professional organization is a plus

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Parks and Recreation Planner
• Work Environment: Office setting with frequent field visits. Some travel may be required for meetings or site inspections.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Parks and Recreation.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $55,000 minimum to $85,000 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 Planner Do?

Parks and Recreation Planners work for local municipalities, government agencies or private organizations.

Their key responsibility is to design and manage public spaces such as parks, playgrounds, community centers, and recreational facilities.

They develop and implement plans for managing natural resources, conservation of parks, and enhancement of community recreational activities.

This involves assessing community needs, environmental impact, and budget constraints.

They work closely with landscape architects, environmentalists, and community members to ensure the recreational spaces are safe, accessible, and meet the needs of the community.

In addition, Parks and Recreation Planners may also be involved in grant writing and fundraising to secure funding for park projects.

They may also coordinate with other departments for maintenance and repair work of the facilities.

Moreover, they often conduct public meetings and presentations to gather feedback and suggestions from community members, and to keep them informed about the progress of ongoing projects.

The goal of a Parks and Recreation Planner is to create a vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive public space that promotes community wellness and engagement.

 

Parks and Recreation Planner Qualifications and Skills

A Parks and Recreation Planner should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Experience in landscape architecture or urban planning, able to assess and design spaces that are both functional and aesthetic.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively present and explain planning proposals and gather feedback from community members, stakeholders, and team members.
• Strong project management skills to oversee and coordinate multiple tasks, including managing budgets, timelines, and resources.
• An understanding of environmental impact assessments to ensure the sustainability of park and recreational projects.
• Interpersonal skills to work with a diverse range of people, including council members, contractors, community groups, and other stakeholders.
• Analytical skills to interpret data related to land use, population demographics, and environmental research.
• Knowledge of the laws and regulations related to park and recreational planning.
• Problem-solving skills to address challenges and unexpected issues that arise during the planning and implementation stages.
• Creativity in designing recreational spaces that are accessible, safe, and enjoyable for all community members.
• Technical skills for using computer-aided design (CAD) programs and Geographic Information System (GIS) for mapping and planning purposes.

 

Parks and Recreation Planner Experience Requirements

Parks and Recreation Planners typically need a bachelor’s degree in urban planning, landscape architecture, or a related field.

This educational background provides the foundational knowledge needed for the role, although specific work experience in park planning or public administration can significantly enhance a candidate’s qualifications.

Entry-level Parks and Recreation Planners often have 1 to 2 years of experience, which might be obtained through internships, part-time roles or even volunteer work in fields related to parks and recreation planning.

Candidates with 3 to 4 years of experience likely have a more comprehensive understanding of project management, environmental regulations, and community engagement, having worked on parks and recreation projects at the municipal or county level.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in park and recreation planning are typically considered for senior or management positions.

At this level, they are expected to have a strong track record in project leadership, strategic planning, and community collaboration, as well as experience in applying for and managing grants, supervising staff, and working with elected officials.

 

Parks and Recreation Planner Education and Training Requirements

A bachelor’s degree in parks and recreation management, urban planning, landscape architecture, or a related field is typically required for a Parks and Recreation Planner.

Some positions may require a master’s degree in a related field.

Coursework in subjects such as urban planning, landscape architecture, environmental science, and public administration can provide a solid foundation for this role.

Candidates should also have a good understanding of local government processes, zoning regulations, and land use policies.

To demonstrate proficiency and expertise in this field, individuals may consider obtaining professional certification, such as the Certified Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP) credential offered by the National Recreation and Park Association.

Although not always required, this certification can be beneficial and may increase job prospects.

In addition, Parks and Recreation Planners need strong skills in project management, budgeting, and public relations.

They should also have excellent communication skills, as they often need to present proposals to stakeholders and community members.

Continued education through seminars, workshops, and courses is also encouraged to keep up with the latest trends and changes in park and recreation planning.

 

Parks and Recreation Planner Salary Expectations

A Parks and Recreation Planner typically earns an average salary of $71,923 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can fluctuate based on factors such as level of experience, relevant education, geographical location, and the specific organization that they are employed by.

 

Parks and Recreation Planner Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Parks and Recreation Planner need?

Parks and Recreation Planners need to have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with different stakeholders, such as government agencies, community members, and contractors.

They should possess problem-solving abilities, decision-making skills, and a keen attention to detail.

Knowledge in landscape architecture, urban planning, and environmental laws and regulations is also important.

 

Do Parks and Recreation Planners need a degree?

Yes, Parks and Recreation Planners generally require a bachelor’s degree in urban planning, landscape architecture, or a related field.

Some positions may prefer or require a master’s degree or professional certifications.

Further, they must be knowledgeable about local, state, and federal regulations related to parks and recreation facilities.

 

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

A Parks and Recreation Planner’s resume should highlight their education in urban planning, landscape architecture, or a related field.

Look for experience in planning and managing public outdoor spaces, knowledge of environmental laws, and evidence of strong project management skills.

Proficiency in software used in planning and design, such as GIS or CAD, can also be valuable.

 

What qualities make a good Parks and Recreation Planner?

A good Parks and Recreation Planner should be passionate about outdoor spaces and recreational activities.

They should possess strong analytical skills, be detail-oriented, and have the ability to visualize and communicate complex ideas clearly.

They also need to be adaptable, as they may need to revise plans based on community feedback, budget constraints, or environmental considerations.

 

Is it challenging to hire a Parks and Recreation Planner?

The challenge in hiring a Parks and Recreation Planner can vary depending on the specific requirements of the role and the pool of applicants.

A candidate with a blend of solid academic background, strong work experience, and genuine passion for outdoor spaces and community development can be difficult to find.

Therefore, it’s essential to have a well-structured recruitment process and offer competitive benefits to attract top talent.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve explored the inner workings of what it truly means to be a Parks and Recreation Planner.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about scheduling activities.

It’s about sculpting the framework of leisure, one park plan at a time.

Armed with our essential Parks and Recreation Planner job description template and practical examples, you’re ready to make your move.

But why hold back?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to meticulously-crafted listings or refining your resume to utmost perfection.

Bear in mind:

Every park plan is a piece of the broader landscape.

Let’s shape that landscape. Together.

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