Manager Parks & Recreation

Oakland County•Waterford, MI

1d•$111,089 - $148,838•Hybrid

About The Position

The Manager Parks & Recreation is responsible for planning, developing, implementing, and evaluating a comprehensive countywide Parks and Recreation system. The position manages Oakland County Parks’ operating budget, revenues, expenditures, purchases, and divisional units, and participates in establishing and revising the county Parks Master Plan. It works with cities, villages, townships, local officials, County departments, and community organizations to coordinate parks and recreation services and programs. The manager oversees park operations, safety, maintenance, facilities, concessions, recreation programs, natural resources and sustainability programs, special projects, personnel matters, staff training, and operational schedules. The position supports implementation of the division’s Five-Year Parks and Recreation Master Plan, Strategic Plan, and other adopted planning documents; oversees surveys and other research; and works with consultants on master plans and capital development. It represents the division in policy matters and labor negotiations, may act as department head in the Director’s absence, and responds to park emergencies, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. The role is hybrid, with most work performed in an office and some field work inspecting parks and programs and meeting staff at park facilities. The position is on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university; preferred fields include Recreation and Park Administration, Park and Recreation Management, Park and Recreation Resources, Planning, Urban Planning, Conservation Planning, Sustainability, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a closely related field.
At least five years of full-time work experience as supervisor of a major park or recreation facility or department. A master’s degree in one of the specified or related fields may substitute for two years of experience.
Valid United States motor vehicle operator’s or chauffeur’s license. Out-of-country driver’s license holders must obtain the appropriate valid Michigan driver’s license before the hire date.
Pass the complete examination, including the employment medical, established for this classification.
Successfully complete a six-month probationary period.
Ability to communicate clearly and accurately, using tact and diplomacy.
Ability to solve complex operational, logistical, and employee-related problems in a timely manner.

Responsibilities

Plan, develop, implement, and evaluate the countywide Parks and Recreation system and its programs, services, facilities, and activities.
Manage the Oakland County Parks operating budget, revenues, expenditures, budget proposals, modifications, purchases, and divisional spending; seek alternative funding sources.
Participate in establishing and revising the Parks Master Plan and assist with implementation of the division’s Five-Year Parks and Recreation Master Plan, Strategic Plan, and other adopted planning documents.
Work with cities, villages, townships, their officials and departments, other County departments, and governmental, voluntary, and nonprofit agencies to coordinate services and programs.
Evaluate organizational structure, facilities, and equipment to promote effective, sustainable, and cost-efficient service delivery.
Recommend, request, document, and approve personnel transactions, including appointments, status changes, and disciplinary actions; assist supervisors with complex employee and operational problems.
Coordinate and review work assignments and safety practices and procedures.
Inspect park facilities, grounds, and utilities to assess maintenance and operations and ensure standards are met.
Represent the division in labor negotiations, implement negotiated agreements, and settle grievances.
Act as department head in the Director’s absence and represent the division in policy matters at departmental, Parks Commission, and Board of Commissioners’ meetings.
Respond to park emergencies, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Oversee park concessionaires and ensure vendors and contractors perform work according to contract specifications; address related health, maintenance, improvement, and business concerns.
Coordinate with Ellis & Associates to ensure waterpark areas meet legal and safety requirements.
Manage assigned special projects and oversee recreation programs and services, including reviewing program plans and evaluations.
Oversee Natural Resources and Sustainability programs and services in coordination with core planning services; review program plans and evaluations.
Address patron, staff, and Commissioner issues and complaints; provide staff with training and tools to serve visitors and respond to public concerns.
Oversee research, including countywide surveys, gap analysis, and patron surveys.
Coordinate operations schedules to make efficient use of staff, equipment, and materials across the parks system.
Speak to civic organizations and interested citizens about Oakland County Parks and Recreation offerings.
Oversee consultant work on master plans and capital development programs for new and existing park areas and structures.
Serve as liaison with County Vehicle Operations, coordinate vehicle use and replacements, and serve as Parks and Recreation Fleet Manager.
Use current countywide and/or department-specific software to complete assignments.