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Job Description: Parks and Recreation Director
Department: Parks and Recreation
Position Title: Parks and Recreation Director
Reports To: Mayor and Board of Aldermen
Location: Magee, MS
Job Type: Full-Time
General Summary
The City of Magee Parks and Recreation Director is responsible for managing and overseeing the city’s parks, recreational programs, facilities, and special events, ensuring that residents have access to high-quality recreational opportunities that enhance their quality of life. This position requires strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills, as well as a deep understanding of parks management, community engagement, and program development. The ideal candidate will be committed to creating an inclusive and active community through the development and management of public spaces and recreational initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
1. Parks and Facility Management
○ Oversee the daily operations, maintenance, and management of all city parks, recreational facilities, and public spaces, ensuring they are safe, clean, and well-maintained.
○ Develop and implement a preventive maintenance program for city parks, including landscaping, playground equipment, sports fields, trails, and other recreational amenities.
○ Ensure compliance with safety regulations and standards for park facilities, ensuring that equipment and amenities are regularly inspected and maintained.
○ Develop and manage park improvement projects, working with contractors, city departments, and community groups to enhance park facilities and expand recreational options.
○ Manage the budget for park maintenance, repair, and capital improvement projects.
2. Program Development and Management
○ Plan, organize, and implement recreational programs and activities for all age groups, including youth sports leagues, fitness classes, summer camps, and special events.
○ Assess community needs and interests through surveys, focus groups, or public meetings, and develop programs that address these needs.
○ Ensure programs are accessible, affordable, and inclusive for all residents, including individuals with disabilities and underserved populations.
○ Recruit, train, and supervise staff and volunteers to assist in the delivery of recreation programs.
○ Monitor program effectiveness, gather feedback from participants, and make adjustments to improve programs as needed.
3. Budget and Financial Oversight
○ Develop and manage the annual budget for the Parks and Recreation Department, ensuring efficient allocation of resources across parks maintenance, programming, staffing, and special projects.
○ Identify and pursue external funding opportunities, including grants, sponsorships, and partnerships, to support department initiatives.
○ Manage revenue-generating activities such as facility rentals, program fees, and special events, ensuring proper accounting and record-keeping.
○ Track expenditures and ensure that the department remains within its allocated budget while still meeting operational and programmatic goals.
4. Community Engagement and Public Relations
○ Serve as the primary point of contact for community members, organizations, and stakeholders regarding parks, recreation programs, and special events.
○ Foster positive relationships with local schools, community groups, and other organizations to promote parks and recreational opportunities.
○ Develop and implement a public relations strategy to raise awareness about the city’s parks and recreation programs, including social media, websites, newsletters, and community outreach.
○ Organize and promote special events such as festivals, holiday celebrations, and recreational tournaments that enhance community engagement and bring residents together.
5. Staff Supervision and Development
○ Supervise and lead a team of full-time, part-time, and seasonal employees in the execution of parks and recreation programs, facilities management, and special events.
○ Provide ongoing training and professional development opportunities for staff to ensure the delivery of high-quality programs and services.
○ Conduct performance evaluations and provide regular feedback to staff, ensuring adherence to department policies, procedures, and safety standards.
○ Ensure adequate staffing levels during peak times for programs and events, and recruit temporary or seasonal staff as needed.
6. Partnerships and Collaboration
○ Collaborate with local schools, churches, non-profit organizations, and other governmental agencies to provide opportunities for community recreation.
○ Work with other city departments (e.g., Public Works, Planning and Zoning) to ensure that parks and recreation initiatives are integrated into broader city planning and development efforts.
○ Represent the city’s parks and recreation interests in regional, state, and national parks and recreation organizations, advocating for resources, best practices, and policy improvements.
7. Strategic Planning and Development
○ Develop long-term strategic plans for the growth and improvement of parks and recreation facilities, considering factors such as community needs, environmental sustainability, and fiscal responsibility.
○ Analyze park usage data, resident feedback, and demographic trends to guide future development and program planning.
○ Work with the Mayor, Board of Aldermen, and other city leaders to advocate for park development, facility upgrades, and capital improvement projects that align with community priorities.
8. Risk Management and Compliance
○ Ensure that all parks, facilities, and programs comply with applicable local, state, and federal regulations, including safety standards and accessibility requirements.
○ Develop and implement policies and procedures for the safe use of parks and recreation facilities, ensuring that appropriate risk management protocols are followed.
○ Respond to accidents or incidents within parks and recreation facilities and ensure that any necessary corrective actions are taken.
9. Special Projects and Initiatives
○ Lead and participate in special projects that promote community development and quality of life, such as sustainability initiatives, beautification projects, or park expansions.
○ Stay current with trends in parks and recreation, seeking innovative ways to engage the community and enhance the department’s offerings.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
● Strong knowledge of parks and recreation management principles, including program development, budgeting, and facilities management.
● Ability to assess community needs and design recreational programs that serve diverse populations.
● Experience in the development and management of park facilities, including maintenance, safety, and improvement projects.
● Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with staff, residents, elected officials, and community partners.
● Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate, develop, and support a diverse team of employees.
● Familiarity with grant writing, sponsorship acquisition, and other funding strategies for parks and recreation initiatives.
● Ability to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and manage multiple tasks and priorities simultaneously.
● Knowledge of risk management practices, including safety protocols and legal compliance for recreational activities.
Physical Requirements
● Ability to work outdoors and in various weather conditions for extended periods, including walking, standing, and overseeing park facilities.
● Ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds in equipment or materials.
● Ability to travel locally and regionally to attend meetings, conferences, and training sessions.
Working Conditions
The Parks and Recreation Director works primarily in an office environment but will regularly be required to visit parks and recreational facilities, attend community meetings, and oversee outdoor events. Evening and weekend work may be required, especially for special events and programs.
Job Description Acknowledgement
I have read and understand the job description for the position of Parks and Recreation Director. I am able to perform the essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodation.
*This job description provides an overview of the primary duties and qualifications of the Parks and Recreation Director. It is not intended to be a comprehensive list of responsibilities and may be modified as necessary to meet the needs of the City of Magee.
City Hall has applications available for completion and submission during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 8am-5pm. Additionally, resumes may be emailed to Mayor Mark Grubbs at mgrubbs@cityofmagee.ms.gov and/or Jon Styron, City Clerk at jstyron@cityofmagee.com.
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