Parks Lead

Lane County•Public Works Parks Division, OR

9h•Onsite

About The Position

Lane County Parks is seeking an experienced, community-minded leader to help oversee park operations and lead our Park Ranger Program across one of Oregon's premier park systems. With 68 parks, more than 4,300 acres of natural spaces, and over three million visitors each year, this position plays a critical role in protecting our parks while creating safe, welcoming, and enjoyable experiences for everyone who visits. This is a dynamic leadership position that combines public service, park operations, code enforcement, staff supervision, and visitor engagement. You'll provide day-to-day leadership for Park Rangers, maintenance staff, and seasonal employees while working collaboratively with law enforcement, emergency responders, volunteer park hosts, social service providers, and other community partners to support safe, accessible, and well-maintained parks. Success in this role requires someone who leads with professionalism, sound judgment, and emotional intelligence. You'll navigate complex situations with confidence, resolve conflicts through communication and de-escalation, ensure compliance with park regulations and DPSST requirements, coordinate responses to unauthorized camping and illegal dumping, oversee administrative and compliance responsibilities, and support maintenance and improvement projects throughout the park system. We're looking for a leader who enjoys working with people as much as working outdoors—someone who can coach employees, build strong partnerships, communicate effectively with diverse communities, and balance accountability with exceptional customer service. The ideal candidate is organized, adaptable, and committed to fostering an inclusive environment where visitors, volunteers, and staff feel respected, supported, and welcome. If you're passionate about public service, enjoy leading teams, and want to help preserve and protect some of Lane County's most treasured outdoor spaces, we encourage you to apply. Lane County’s parks include 4,364 acres of rich natural, recreational and cultural assets at 68 sites across the County’s 4,800 square miles. These parks provide residents and visitors access to world class rivers; swimmable and navigable lakes; ocean beaches; historic covered bridges; and recreation facilities such as campgrounds, picnic areas, and mountain trails.

Requirements

Up to one year of technical or specialized training beyond high school.
Four years of progressively responsible experience related to area of assignment.
Equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job.
Oregon driver license required at time of appointment.
Background check required.

Responsibilities

Provide day-to-day leadership for Park Rangers, maintenance staff, and seasonal employees.
Work collaboratively with law enforcement, emergency responders, volunteer park hosts, social service providers, and other community partners.
Navigate complex situations with confidence.
Resolve conflicts through communication and de-escalation.
Ensure compliance with park regulations and DPSST requirements.
Coordinate responses to unauthorized camping and illegal dumping.
Oversee administrative and compliance responsibilities.
Support maintenance and improvement projects throughout the park system.
Coach employees.
Build strong partnerships.
Communicate effectively with diverse communities.
Balance accountability with exceptional customer service.