Deputy Commissioner, Parks, Recreation & Cemetery

City of Worcester; Worcester (MA); On-site; USD 116,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Worcester seeks an experienced Assistant Commissioner of Parks, Recreation, and Cemetery to lead planning, operations, and capital projects across city parks, cemetery, golf course, and urban spaces.

The role requires budgeting acumen, staff supervision, and effective public engagement; bilingual applicants are encouraged. The department works closely with multiple city agencies to deliver comprehensive recreational programs and maintain facilities.

Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge of parks, recreation, cemetery management and related operations.
• Ability to plan, organize, coordinate and direct department activities and personnel.
• Knowledge of municipal budgeting and financial reporting practices.
• Experience supervising staff and managing cross-department collaborations.
• Ability to prepare reports and communicate with city officials and the public.

Responsibilities

• Advise the Commissioner on supervision and administration of division programs and facilities.
• Assist in department budget preparation and monitoring of financial statements.
• Allocate resources across divisions and ensure program compliance with policies.
• Supervise division supervisors and ensure policy implementation across Parks, Forestry, Cemetery, Golf Course, Administration and Recreation.
• Develop and present capital project plans and evaluate safety and quality standards for facilities.
• Coordinate with other departments to improve city operations and seek grant funding.
• Represent the Commissioner at meetings and public forums and prepare speeches when needed.

Skills

Parks management

Budgeting

Leadership

Grant management

Public administration

Compliance & CORI/SORI

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in parks & recreation management, public administration, or related field

Tools

GIS software

Recreation Permitting Software

Cemetery Software

HRM systems

Job description

City of Worcester seeks an experienced Assistant Commissioner of Parks, Recreation, and Cemetery to lead planning, operations, and capital projects across city parks, cemetery, golf course, and urban spaces.

The role requires budgeting acumen, staff supervision, and effective public engagement; bilingual applicants are encouraged. The department works closely with multiple city agencies to deliver comprehensive recreational programs and maintain facilities.