Executive Director - Parks, Recreation & Public Property

City of Omaha; Omaha (NE); On-site; USD 180,000 - 200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision insurance

HSA funding

Pension plan

Retiree healthcare benefits

14 holidays

Vacation and sick leave

Job summary

The City of Omaha seeks a dynamic Director of Parks, Recreation & Public Property to lead the city’s vast parks and public properties. Based in Omaha, NE, you will steward a $66 million operating budget and guide strategic programs, facilities, and capital projects to elevate community life.

You will oversee diverse teams, engage stakeholders, and ensure equitable access to public spaces while reporting to city leadership. A relevant master’s degree and CPRP/CPRE certification are preferred.

Qualifications

• Executive leadership experience in parks and recreation for a community of comparable size.
• Experience managing large multidisciplinary organizations and substantial public budgets.
• Track record overseeing complex capital projects from planning through completion.
• Strong strategic planning, organizational leadership, and change management skills.
• Ability to build collaborative partnerships with officials, organizations, and stakeholders.
• Excellent communication and public engagement abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic vision and daily operations of the Parks, Recreation & Public Property Department.
• Oversee planning, development, and maintenance of parks, facilities, and properties.
• Direct major capital projects, including a new sports complex.
• Manage a $66 million operating budget and multidisciplinary teams.
• Build partnerships with community organizations and regional agencies.
• Champion equitable access to parks and public spaces across Omaha.
• Represent the City before Mayor, City Council, boards, and the public.

Skills

Executive leadership

Public administration

Budget management

Strategic planning

Stakeholder engagement

Public communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in public administration / parks & recreation

Master's degree (preferred)

CPRP or CPRE certification (preferred)

Job description

The City of Omaha seeks a dynamic Director of Parks, Recreation & Public Property to lead the city’s vast parks and public properties. Based in Omaha, NE, you will steward a $66 million operating budget and guide strategic programs, facilities, and capital projects to elevate community life.

You will oversee diverse teams, engage stakeholders, and ensure equitable access to public spaces while reporting to city leadership. A relevant master’s degree and CPRP/CPRE certification are preferred.