Director of Parks (Full-Time, Exempt)

Colorado Psychiatric; Colorado; On-site; USD 108,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental & vision insurance

Paid Time Off - 4+ weeks/year

8 paid holidays + floating holiday

Job summary

Foothills Recreation District in Colorado is seeking a Director of Parks to lead the planning, operation, and development of parks, trails, and related facilities. The role emphasizes strategic leadership, capital improvement coordination, and collaboration with District departments and community partners.

The candidate will oversee budgeting, staffing, and contracts, while aligning initiatives with community needs and District goals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Park Management, Environmental Science, Landscape Architecture, Engineering, Public Administration, Construction Management, or related field preferred.
• Ten years supervisory experience in planning and construction projects and/or parks/grounds maintenance.
• Experience with Boards, Commissions, community associations and/or partner agencies for at least five years.
• Management experience in a department with similar facilities, functions and programming, preferably serving populations of 50,000+.
• Knowledge of park planning, administration and maintenance including renovations.
• Grant application development and funding knowledge.
• Knowledge of budget planning, development and control.
• Knowledge of applicable laws, codes, regulations, policies governing park operation.
• Basic knowledge of water management.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 applications.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and direction for the District's parks, planning, property management, fleet services, capital improvements, and related operations.
• Develop and implement the Department's vision, goals, master plans, policies, and procedures.
• Serve on the District leadership team and advise the Executive Director on park planning and long-range initiatives.
• Establish departmental goals, priorities, and performance measures; monitor progress.
• Direct planning, design, construction, maintenance and improvement of parks, trails, and associated facilities.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Budget management

Grant writing

Contract management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Parks/Related field

Tools

Microsoft 365

Project management tools

Job description

Position: Director of Parks (Full-Time, Exempt)

Application Deadline: 10/1/2026

Hiring Salary Range: $108,107 - $144,143

Full Salary Range: $108,107 - $180,179

Under the general direction of the Executive Director, this position is responsible for planning, organizing and directing the operation, maintenance and development of the District’s parks, planning and fleet services. Responsible for overseeing park capital repair needs and replacement projects through final construction. Serves as part of the District management team; this position must work collaboratively and cooperatively with other District departments. Must be able to implement strategies and initiatives to position and operate the Parks department appropriately, achieving established financial and service provision goals. This position must represent the Parks Department and the entire District in a knowledgeable and professional manner.

Essential Functions:

• Provide strategic leadership and direction for the District's parks, planning, property management, fleet services, capital improvement programs, and related operations.
• Develop and implement the Department's vision, mission, goals, master plans, policies, and procedures while fostering a culture of service, excellence, innovation, and community engagement.
• Serve as a member of the District's leadership team and as a technical advisor to the Executive Director on park planning, development, operations, policies, and long-range strategic initiatives.
• Establish departmental goals, priorities, performance measures, and operational standards; monitor progress and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Direct and oversee the acquisition, planning, design, construction, renovation, maintenance, and improvement of parks, trails, open space, and related facilities.
• Coordinate District review of subdivision plats, rezoning requests, development proposals, and negotiations with developers to ensure alignment with District goals and plans.
• Negotiate, administer, and oversee construction, acquisition, professional service, and maintenance contracts; review plans and specifications to ensure compliance with project requirements.
• Lead workforce planning and personnel management activities, including recruitment, training, performance management, employee development, and disciplinary actions.
• Develop, administer, and monitor departmental operating and capital budgets; authorize expenditures, oversee procurement processes, prepare financial projections, and secure grant funding opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with District policies, applicable regulations, contract requirements, and safety standards; promote a safe environment for employees, contractors, and the public.
• Manage and monitor all water resources used for park and facility irrigation purposes which may include serving on the Bergen Ditch & Reservoir Company Board or other like entities.
• Build and maintain effective partnerships with Board members, staff, contractors, governmental agencies, community organizations, developers, volunteers, and the public.
• Represent the District and Department at Board meetings, public meetings, professional organizations, and community events; prepare and present reports, recommendations, and project updates.
• Facilitate stakeholder engagement and public outreach efforts related to park planning, development, capital improvements, and recreational initiatives.
• Monitor industry trends, emerging technologies, funding opportunities and best practices to support continuous improvement and innovation.

Working Environment: This position regularly works in a climate-controlled office environment but will also work in the field as needed. Work is performed both indoors and outdoors and may include exposure to various weather conditions and other environmental elements such as noise, fumes, dust, mists, gases, grasses, molds, fertilizers, solvents, oils, and greases. This position also requires the ability to drive to various park and facility locations.

Physical Requirements: The physical demands described here may be performed with or without reasonable accommodation. Must be able to move about park sites, facilities, and construction areas to conduct inspections and oversee projects. Occasionally will be required to lift and move up to 20 pounds unassisted and up to 50 pounds with assistance. Must be able to observe and assess park conditions, construction work, and safety hazards, including at a distance and in varying light and weather conditions. Must be able to operate standard office equipment and computer systems. Must be able to communicate effectively and exchange accurate information with staff, the Board, contractors, and the public. Strong communication skills utilizing multiple mediums – verbal, written, and presentation is required. Occasional contact with chemicals used for cleaning as required.

• Bachelor’s degree in Park Management, Environmental Science, Landscape Architecture, Engineering, Public Administration, Construction Management, or directly related field preferred.
• Ten (10) years supervisory experience in planning and construction projects and/or parks and grounds maintenance; or any equivalent combination of acceptable education and years of experience.
• Experience working with Boards, Commissions, community associations and/or partner agencies for at least five (5) years.
• Management experience in a department with similar facilities, functions and programming, preferably serving populations of 50,000 or more.
• A combination of education and experience may be considered.
• Knowledge of principles and practices related to the planning and administration of a comprehensive park program as well as maintenance and renovation of parks.
• Grant application development and completion, funding sources and related legislation.
• Knowledge of budget planning, development and control.
• Knowledge of applicable laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures governing the operation and use of parks.
• Basic knowledge of property and water management.
• Knowledge of modern office procedures, methods and general office equipment (computer, copier, phone, etc.). Proficiency with applicable computer software including Microsoft 365 applications (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook).

Other Requirements:

Must possess and maintain a valid Driver’s License or the ability to obtain one within thirty (30) days of employment. Must be insurable by the District insurance carrier at the onset and for the duration of employment.

As a full-time Foothills employee, benefits include:

• Medical, dental & vision insurance
• Paid Time-Off (vacation, personal & sick time) which equates to 4+ weeks/year
• 8 paid holidays + 1 floating holiday/year
• Recreation discounts and perks for you and your dependents including but not limited to:
• FREE use of our recreation/fitness centers, swimming pools, and ice arena
• FREE or discounted fitness classes
• Golf green fee discounts and free driving range use
• Discounts on childcare and other classes/programs
• 100% paid Term Life Insurance and AD&D
• 401(k) with annual District discretionary contribution
• Flexible Spending Account (medical and/or dependent care)
• Voluntary Term Life Insurance available
• Long-Term and Short-Term Disability insurances available
• Wellness Program- earn additional personal time or medical insurance discount and more!
• Tuition Reimbursement program
  

About Us
Creating Community, Enhancing Health, Inspiring Play! We fulfill our mission by providing a variety of recreational services, programs and activities for both youth and adults. We operate three recreation centers, two golf courses, a two-sheet ice arena, swimming pools, and two indoor sports facilities. In addition, we maintain 68 park sites and over 30 miles in trails. Joining our team means you will contribute to the well-being of your community.