Park Manager Trainee

Cleveland-Metroparks; Fairview Park (OH); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Cleveland Metroparks is seeking a Park Manager Trainee to develop the skills and knowledge to assume a Park Manager role. The program provides structured education, hands-on training, and direct experience under the guidance of the Park Manager and Director of Parks.

The trainee will interview, train, coach staff, manage budgets, oversee park safety, coordinate with divisions on projects, and travel to multiple park locations as assigned. A bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience is preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree preferred; five years progressive parks experience including supervision.
• Equivalent combination of education, training and experience acceptable.

Responsibilities

• Train and coach staff; direct and assign work; ensure safety and legal compliance.
• Identify and prioritize maintenance projects; monitor daily progress.
• Oversee budgeting, purchasing, payroll and audit records.
• Maintain safe and clean facilities; coordinate with divisions on projects.
• Inspect and manage fleet and equipment; submit repair requests.
• Prepare reports; participate in committees and meetings.

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Leadership

Problem solving

Organization

Budget management

Microsoft Office

Independent work

Education

Bachelor’s degree in parks and recreation management

Tools

Park equipment operation

Job description

The Park Manager Trainee develops the knowledge and skills needed to assume full responsibility for a Park Manager role. The Trainee receives structured education, hands‑on training, and direct experience performing all Park Manager duties under the guidance of the Park Manager and Director of Parks.

Key Responsibilities:

• Interviews, selects, trains, and coaches staff; directs and assigns work; adjusts schedules; maintains and evaluates productivity records; handles complaints and discipline; ensures legal compliance; manages materials and supplies; and ensures employee and property safety.
• Utilizes necessary tools and supplies; identifies and prioritizes maintenance projects; monitors daily crew progress to ensure timely and thorough completion.
• Ensures safe, clean, well‑maintained parks; responds to adjoining property owner concerns and encroachment issues; addresses patron questions, concerns, and comments.
• Prioritizes budget needs; oversees spending, purchase orders, and Procard use; reconciles Procard and fuel accounts; monitors seasonal/overtime budgets; maintains audit records; completes payroll twice monthly.
• Provides clean, safe facilities for programs; assists Outdoor Experiences, Aquatics, and affiliates with setup/takedown; responds to internal information requests; coordinates with specialty divisions on projects.
• Ensures vehicles/equipment are inspected weekly; oversees maintenance; verifies safe driving practices; evaluates fleet needs and submits repair/replacement requests; participates in fleet‑related committees.
• Completes reports and administrative tasks promptly; provides requested information; participates in committees; attends manager meetings and administrative sessions.
• Supports setup and takedown for reservation events; coordinates maintenance to ensure clean facilities; monitors reservable spaces; schedules cleanup; assists with interdepartmental events; secures special equipment (stages, tables, lighting, signage, etc.).
• Travels to locations all throughout the Park District as assigned.

Requirements

Education and Experience: A bachelor’s degree in parks and recreation management or a related field is preferred; candidates may also qualify with a minimum of five years of progressive parks and recreation experience, including lead or supervisory responsibilities, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Qualifications:

• Valid driver’s license required, CPR and First Aid certification preferred.
• Knowledge of park and recreation management practices, including turf management, arboriculture, horticulture, facility design, construction and maintenance, conservation procedures, and equipment operations
• Knowledge of safe and proper operation of typical park equipment such as tractors, front ‑ end loaders, graders, dump trucks, mowers, and various power and hand tools
• Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with employees, stakeholders, and the public
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to speak and write clearly, concisely, and persuasively in both individual and group settings
• High accuracy, organization, and attention to detail
• Demonstrated management skills and business acumen, including problem solving, vision, leadership, collaboration, decision ‑ making, and the ability to manage multiple programs and deadlines
• Ability to analyze diverse information and prepare clear reports and recommendations
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and related software
• Mature professional attitude and discretion, including the ability to manage confidential information
• Ability to work with considerable independence and initiative

Work Days: Monday – Friday

It is the policy of Cleveland Metroparks to ensure equal employment, promotional and working condition opportunity without discrimination or harassment on the basis of age, color, gender, gender identity or expression, genetic information, mental or physical disability, military status, national origin, pregnancy, race, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We endeavor to make this site accessible to users. If you need assistance completing the application process, please contact us at [e-mail] .