Senior Park Planner

The Downers Grove Park District•Downers Grove, IL

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Downers Grove Park District is seeking a talented, collaborative, and detail-oriented Senior Park Planner to help shape the future of parks and recreation facilities throughout our community. This position plays a key role in the design, development, and construction of capital projects that support the District’s long-term vision. The ideal candidate will lead planning activities, project development, design documentation, and construction observation. This is an excellent opportunity for a professional who enjoys both creative design and hands-on project management in a public-sector environment.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Landscape Architecture from an accredited university
Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in landscape architecture, park design, or a related field
Strong knowledge of park design, planting design, native plant communities, and landscape construction methodology
Proficiency in AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, ESRI GIS, and Microsoft Office applications
Proficient in both hand rendering and software-based graphic presentations
Ability to draft and interpret construction documents, details, and technical specifications
Working knowledge of Midwest plant materials, grading and drainage, and hardscape construction
Superior attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and a results-driven mindset
Illinois Professional Landscape Architect (PLA) (required)
Valid Illinois Driver’s License (or ability to obtain within three months if currently out-of-state)

Nice To Haves

Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) preferred and could be obtained after hire

Responsibilities

Conduct planning activities that assist with the development and implementation of the District’s five-year Capital Improvement Plan
Provide project estimates for budget planning and manage individual project budgets
Prepare concept plans, design development, and construction documents for park improvement projects
Present improvement plans at public meetings and gather community input
Coordinate planned maintenance, repairs, and replacement activities to prolong the lifespan of existing District assets
Coordinate the public bidding process, including the development of technical specifications and advertisement of bids
Prepare and maintain professional project files, including design drawings, construction documents, as-builts, feasibility studies, and cost reports
Lead assigned projects to ensure efficient coordination of work within provided resources
Prepare Requests for Proposals and manage consultants as needed to complete design and permitting of park projects
Ensure all required project paperwork is completed accurately and timely (change orders, payouts, board communications, etc.)
Observe construction by hired contractors to ensure total compliance with construction specifications
Review natural areas maintenance contracts and manage contractor
Support the park maintenance division by preparing plant bed designs, including
Review contractor pay applications to verify work completed and authorize payment
Maintain quality service standards and identify opportunities for system or cost-saving improvements
Stay current on industry trends and technical standards to maintain "state-of-the-art" practices for the District
Provide leadership and support for District events; occasional evenings and weekends may be required