PARK SUPERINTENDENT I

State of Arkansas; Harrisburg (AR); On-site; USD 52,000 - 77,000; Full time

Job summary

The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism oversees multiple divisions including State Parks, Heritage, and Tourism. The Park Superintendent I at Lake Poinsett State Park leads daily operations, ensures maintenance and visitor services, and protects park resources while guiding staff and volunteers to deliver safe, engaging experiences.

This role requires strong organizational and communication skills, budgets oversight, and implementation of sustainability practices within a state

Qualifications

• At least one year of experience in park management or related fields.
• Strong leadership and communication skills are essential.
• Experience with safety, environmental guidelines, and regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations, maintenance, and safety of park facilities.
• Ensure compliance with park regulations and environmental guidelines.
• Coordinate visitor services and information for park guests.
• Assist in emergency response planning and first aid coordination.
• Manage staff scheduling, training, and performance reviews.
• Support budget preparation, fee collection, and revenue tracking.

Skills

Staff supervision

Budget oversight

Emergency planning

Public speaking

Visitor services

Job description

Introduction

The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism has three major divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage, and Arkansas Tourism. Arkansas State Parks manages 52 state parks and promotes Arkansas as a tourist destination for people around the country. Arkansas Heritage preserves and promotes Arkansas’s natural and cultural history and heritage through four historic museums and four cultural preservation agencies. Arkansas Tourism improves the state’s economy by generating travel and enhancing the image of the state.

Position Information

• Position Number: 22143399
• Location: Lake Poinsett State Park -PT29
• County: Poinsett
• Anticipated Starting Salary: 52,137.07
• Job Series: Parks - Competitive
• Classification: Park Superintendent I
• Class Code: RPA17C
• Pay Grade: SGS06
• Salary Range: $52,137- $77,163

Job Summary

The Park Superintendent I is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of a small state park or assisting in the management of a larger park facility. This role ensures the maintenance, visitor services, and environmental conservation efforts are carried out effectively. The position requires strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors while protecting park resources.

Primary Responsibilities

Supervise the daily operations, maintenance, and safety of park facilities. Monitor and ensure compliance with state park regulations, policies, and environmental guidelines. Perform and oversee basic maintenance tasks, landscaping, and repairs to park facilities, trails, and recreational areas. Assist in emergency response planning, including visitor safety protocols and first aid coordination. Provide excellent customer service and assist visitors with park information, regulations, and safety guidelines. Help coordinate educational and recreational programs to promote conservation awareness and outdoor activities. Assist in educational and recreational programs, ensuring alignment with conservation and heritage goals. Supervises staff by interviewing, recommending staff for hire/fire, assigning and reviewing work, counseling, and evaluating the performance of incumbents. Manage visitor reservations, group events, and park activities. Supervise employees, volunteers, and maintenance personnel. Assist in budget preparation, fee collection, and revenue tracking for park services. Maintain park records, operational reports, and inventory of equipment and supplies. Support grant applications and funding opportunities for park improvements. Ensure protection of natural habitats, wildlife, and historical sites within the park. Implement sustainability practices, waste management, and resource conservation efforts.

Knowledge And Skills

Ability to supervise, train, and coordinate staff and volunteers. Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities to handle park operations efficiently. Experience with basic financial management, purchasing, and budget oversight. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage with visitors and stakeholders. Ability to mediate conflicts and address visitor concerns professionally. Strong public speaking and community outreach skills. Understanding of park maintenance, facility operations, and recreation management. Familiarity with environmental conservation, safety regulations, and emergency protocols. Basic proficiency in computer applications for administrative tasks and reporting. Ability to operate maintenance equipment, tools, and vehicles safely. Understanding of trail maintenance, landscaping, and wildlife management. Awareness and ability to respond to first aid, CPR, and emergency response protocols (training will be provided).

Minimum Qualifications

At least one year of experience in park management, natural resource management, outdoor recreation administration, or a related field.

Licensure/Certifications

N/A OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.