District Manager

Polk County Board of County Commissioners•Mulberry, FL

About The Position

This is advanced supervisory and administrative work overseeing operations and maintenance of parks within a designated district or countywide specialized services. The role includes managing staff, coordinating maintenance and operations, and ensuring effective use of resources across multiple park facilities.

Requirements

Graduation from an accredited high school or possession of an acceptable equivalency diploma.
Three (3) years of responsible administrative, supervisory, managerial, or professional experience in park system maintenance and operations.
Ability to obtain Trenching & Excavation Competent Person certification per current OSHA regulations within one year.
Ability to obtain a Florida Ornamental and Turf Pest Control license within one (1) year of hire.
Must possess a valid driver’s license and be able to secure a Florida driver’s license at the time of employment.
Extensive knowledge of park management principles, maintenance techniques, and operational planning.
Strong supervisory skills with the ability to lead diverse teams and maintain high morale.
Ability to assess maintenance needs and implement responsive action plans.
In-depth understanding of turf management, irrigation, landscaping, and pest control techniques.
Familiarity with safe use of pesticides, insecticides, and related regulations.
Proficient in the use of personal computers and basic software for operational tasks.
Skilled in budget preparation, monitoring, and expenditure control.
Ability to prepare clear and concise reports and manage records effectively.
Competent in performing basic and advanced mathematical calculations.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to engage with the public and community groups to tailor programming and address concerns.
Must undergo a Level 2 (FDLE) screening submitted electronically before commencing work. Those obtaining this certification must maintain certification as a condition of employment.
All employees will be required to work before, during, or after an emergency.
During an emergency, employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its citizens.

Nice To Haves

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in Park and Recreation Management or a related field.
Certification as a National Playground Inspector.
Certification as a Plant Nursery Professional.
Completion of an advanced supervisory training program.

Responsibilities

Supervises a large, geographically dispersed staff, often through subordinate supervisors.
Oversee private contractors providing services within assigned areas.
Manage specialized staff and operations for high-traffic or high-visibility countywide park services.
Provides input on hiring, promotions, discipline, and employee evaluations.
Approves overtime and leave requests; monitors staff performance and morale.
Trains staff on equipment use, safety procedures, and park operations.
Plans, organizes, and schedules grounds and facility maintenance programs.
Inspects parks to identify maintenance needs; supervises pest control and landscaping activities.
Issues work orders for equipment and facility repairs.
Oversee the application of pesticides and insecticides to preserve park vegetation.
Ensures compliance with safety procedures and instructs staff in occupational hazards.
Identifies and reports the need for renovation or replacement of parts, facilities, and equipment.
Manages revenue collection and accounting for park operations.
Develops and monitors budgets; reviews budget requests from subordinates.
Requisitions equipment, materials, and supplies needed for park operations.
Prepares reports on operations, maintenance, and expenditures.
Manages expenditure for goods, services, and equipment.
Assists recreation staff in scheduling activities and planning and implementing events.
Collaborates with community groups to assess recreational needs and adapt programs accordingly.
Develop policies and implement new methods and programs to improve services.
Directs safety initiatives and supports subordinates in facility administration.