Director of Parks & Recreation
General Description:
The Director of Parks and Recreation manages maintenance, enhancements, and recreation activities at Scranton’s more than thirty parks and indoor facility, Weston Field. The Director is responsible for development, maintenance, and operation of the city park system grounds and structures, preservation of open spaces and scenic environments, and the provision of leisure activities and services to citizens of all ages.
The Director manages Department employees, provides general administrative oversight, and works with colleagues across the city departments to maintain efficient operations, manage processes for park improvements, and explore and apply for funding opportunities. The Director coordinates and oversees city pools and splash park features as well as the lifeguards and captains who serve them.
Work involves significant community engagement and public involvement with local leaders, policy makes, and residents. Serving as a member of the Mayor’s cabinet, the Parks and Recreation Director collaborates with the Mayor and other officials on strategy and policy to ensure that the City’s mission and core values are incorporated into the operational activities and services.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Manage, schedule, and oversee facilities maintenance team and daily duties
- Coordinate with the Department of Public Works for equipment and special events
- Preparation and management of Department annual budget
- Lead project implementation from beginning to end with help of the Project Manager
- Organize community events for adults and children
- Coordinate with the Office of Community Development on parks projects
- Attend neighborhood association and other community meetings
- Build relationships with existing and new community leaders
- Utilize the Parks Survey to help revitalize the city parks, pools, and land
- Work with Keystone Mission to support Code Blue for service for people experiencing homelessness during winter months
Required Training, Experience, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Self-Starter with strong organizational skills and time management skills
- Experience managing, organizing, and hiring staff
- Experience creating, and maintain event schedules, timely preparations, templates, and checklists
- A customer service mindset
- Positive attitude with the ability to create and maintain a team environment with associates and the public
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Confident public speaker and event facilitator
- Proficient computer skills, including but not limited to, Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
- Ability to attend community meetings, events, and provide services outside of regular business hours
Qualifications:
- BA, Associate’s Degree or some college preferred
- Experience managing teams and an ability to build a productive work environment
- Some knowledge of methods and equipment used in facilities and maintenance
- Comfortable walking on rough ground and being outside throughout the seasons
- Valid driver’s license issued by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
