PARKS & RECREATION DIRECTOR

City of Opa Locka•Opa-Locka, FL

87d

About The Position

The Parks & Recreation Director plans, develops, coordinates, and directs comprehensive community recreation, cultural, athletic, social, and human service programs. The position provides responsible professional and technical assistance and supervises, coordinates, and directs recreation staff involved in the day-to-day operation, administration, construction, and maintenance of parks, recreation areas, field offices, and public access sites. The employee works within general methods and procedures while exercising considerable independent judgment, and must have thorough knowledge of water-site management and development, City Parks and Recreation programs, supervisory techniques, and personnel policies and procedures. The Director oversees recreation programs and facilities throughout the City, including sports and recreation activities, special events, and swim operations. The role includes program planning and scheduling, staff and volunteer supervision, budget recommendations, reporting and evaluation, supply and equipment coordination, enforcement of City policies and safety requirements, and attention to facility maintenance and applicable health and building codes. Work may include manual labor and setup and takedown for events. The position reports to the City Manager.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Recreation, or a related field.
Ten years of experience in parks and recreation organizational administration, including seven years of supervisory and park management experience, or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
American Red Cross First Aid and CPR certification.
Valid Florida driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.
Knowledge of general management practices, including budgeting, policy and procedure development, and personnel management and supervision.
Knowledge of recreation program planning and execution, facility maintenance, recreation activities for diverse age groups and patrons, short- and long-range planning, and the organization and functions of elected officials, appointed boards, and commissions.
Skills in planning, organizing, assigning, and coordinating staff activities; analyzing and evaluating information; resolving conflict; delegating; motivating and leading employees; analyzing problems and implementing recommendations; using office machines; public relations; and researching and applying operational improvements.
Ability to work cooperatively with employees, elected officials, community leaders, and the public across age groups and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Ability to communicate clearly in oral and written reports and recommendations on administrative, financial, and technical issues.
Ability to respond with tact, composure, and courtesy to individuals experiencing significant stress.
Ability to meet the described physical demands, including prolonged sitting or standing, frequent walking and public interaction, and occasional lifting or carrying up to 40 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree.
Certification as an instructor in a specialized activity.

Responsibilities

Plan, organize, and implement recreation programs, including overseeing sports and recreation programs, ordering supplies, and collecting registrations.
Work independently and oversee activities at all park locations.
Set up and take down facilities and areas for special events, including events on weekends, holidays, and evenings.
Prioritize tasks and complete them within specified time frames and strict deadlines.
Assist in recruiting, training, supervising, directing, and evaluating seasonal staff, volunteers, and participants.
Collect activity and registration records; prepare program plans and requirements in advance for budget recommendations; prepare reports evaluating completed programs and identifying improvements.
Maintain supplies, equipment, and materials for athletic and recreation programs, and advise the Facility Manager of upcoming needs.
Perform necessary manual labor and skilled tasks, including lifting, stooping, bending, and twisting.
Assist in overseeing swim operations, including lifeguards, swim classes, party rentals, and physical maintenance.
Monitor day-to-day athletic and recreation program operations, make site visits, handle and resolve complaints, ensure programs have necessary materials and supplies, and organize seasonal or year-round program plans and schedules.
Enforce City policies, procedures, and park rules for staff, instructors, volunteers, and contracted facility renters; enforce safety and operating procedures; and address maintenance needs and compliance with health and building codes.
Pursue professional development goals that support department objectives and the City's vision.
Perform other duties as assigned.