Parks & Recreation - Green Stormwater Infrastructure Program Manager

City of Philadelphia • Philadelphia, PA

27d • $75,000 - $87,000 • Onsite

About The Position

Philadelphia Parks & Recreation (PPR) seeks a highly qualified and motivated Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) Program Manager to lead implementation of a strategic program to restore underperforming GSI assets, establish a robust asset management system, and advance consistent maintenance practices across the park system. This is a full-time, grant-funded position for 1.5 years, with the possibility of extension contingent on future funding.
The GSI Program Manager will oversee all aspects of program implementation, including asset tracking and inspections, contract management, corrective action planning, community engagement, and the development of a sustainable maintenance framework. The position will work collaboratively across City departments, partner organizations, and community groups to ensure that PPR’s 50+ GSI sites deliver maximum environmental, social, and climate resilience benefits.
This role will play a pivotal part in shaping how PPR manages its growing portfolio of green infrastructure, with responsibilities that include leading a comprehensive GSI condition study across parkland, coordinating digitization of GSI assets, implementing restoration activities, and facilitating community-centered workforce development opportunities. By establishing the value and impact of a dedicated GSI program within PPR, the Program Manager will help lay the groundwork for long-term sustainability of green infrastructure management.

Requirements

• Knowledge of green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) practices, design elements, and maintenance needs.
• Understanding of urban ecology, stormwater management, and environmental justice principles.
• Familiarity with asset management systems, data collection methods, and condition assessments.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects, including planning, scheduling, budgeting, and contract administration.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to track multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Ability to work effectively across City departments, partner organizations, contractors, and community groups.
• Strong skills in building partnerships, fostering collaboration, and managing diverse stakeholder interests.
• Ability to engage with residents and community-based groups in ways that are inclusive, respectful, and responsive.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills, with the ability to communicate technical concepts to non-technical audiences.
• Skilled in facilitating meetings, workshops, or public engagement sessions.
• Ability to prepare clear and compelling reports, presentations, and recommendations for decision-makers.
• Ability to assess challenges, identify creative solutions, and adapt to evolving program needs.
• Competence in using data to inform decision-making and prioritize actions.
• Ability to remain flexible as priorities and timelines shift in a dynamic work environment.
• Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, environmental engineering, urban planning, landscape architecture, natural resource management, or a related field.
• Equivalent professional experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• 3–5 years of professional experience in stormwater management, green infrastructure, urban sustainability, or related fields.
• Demonstrated experience with project management, including budgeting, contract administration, and scheduling.
• Experience conducting site inspections, condition assessments, or asset management activities.
• Familiarity with community engagement and stakeholder collaboration in an urban context.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and basic data management tools; experience with GIS or asset management software is a plus.
• Valid PA Driver’s License (Must be able to travel city-wide to program sites)
• Demonstrated experience working collaboratively with diverse stakeholder groups, including government agencies, community organizations, and residents.
• Commitment to equity, diversity, and community empowerment in environmental work.
• Familiarity with the city of Philadelphia and its neighborhoods.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with GIS or asset management software is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead implementation of Philadelphia Parks & Recreation’s Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) program, overseeing planning, inspections, restoration, and maintenance activities across the park system.
• Manage a comprehensive GSI condition study on parkland, including field inspections, data analysis, and prioritization of corrective actions based on performance, environmental justice, and community impact criteria.
• Support the development and digitization of Parks & Recreation’s GSI assets within a citywide asset management system by providing data, coordinating updates, and ensuring alignment with department needs.
• Plan and implement corrective actions on underperforming GSI sites, including site restoration, repairs, and replanting, ensuring assets are returned to full function.
• Develop and manage contracts, budgets, and timelines for GSI maintenance and restoration work.
• Design and implement a sustainable maintenance framework that integrates internal staff roles, contracted services, and potential workforce development opportunities.
• Facilitate community and stakeholder engagement processes, including meetings, workshops, and feedback sessions, to ensure community perspectives inform program priorities.
• Collaborate with City departments, external partners, and community groups to align PPR’s GSI work with broader citywide green infrastructure and climate resilience goals.
• Monitor and evaluate program progress, preparing reports and presentations that demonstrate outcomes, challenges, and opportunities for long-term investment.
• Serve as a subject-matter resource on GSI for Parks & Recreation staff, partners, and community members, supporting education and shared stewardship of green infrastructure.

Benefits

• Unlimited FREE public transportation all year long through SEPTA’s Key Advantage program.
• 8 weeks of paid parental leave.
• Comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents.
• Wellness program offers eligibility into the discounted medical plan.
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Generous retirement savings options.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness program eligibility.
• Tuition discounts and scholarships (10% to 40% savings) with over a dozen esteemed colleges and universities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED