City of Austin - JOB DESCRIPTION

Director, Parks and Recreation

Under the direction of an Assistant City Manager, the Parks and Recreation Director is responsible for directing, planning, and providing leadership for the operations of the Parks and Recreation Department.

1. Oversees the development, implementation, and evaluation of programs and services that support the department’s mission, vision, and values.
2. Oversees and directs policies, procedures, and regulations pertaining to parks and recreation facilities, land assets, acquisition and management, and cemetery oversight.
3. Manages and leads programs and activities among various City Departments, neighborhood associations, public agencies, and private sector representatives, and other agencies.
4. Plans, manages, and develops the department budget.
5. Prepares reports and memoranda on departmental activities.
6. Develops and implements short and long-term goals and objectives.
7. Responds to and resolves complex and sensitive issues and complaints both internal and external.
8. Ensures all activities are carried out in compliance with City and departmental policies and procedures, local, state, and federal regulations and laws governing activities.

Responsible for the full range of supervisory activities including selection, training, evaluation, counseling, and recommendation for dismissal.

• Knowledge of the principals and practices of public administration.
• Knowledge of Local, State, and Federal laws, ordinances, and regulations.
• Knowledge of operational characteristics, services, and activities of a Parks maintenance and recreation programs.
• Knowledge of the City's ethnic and cultural demographics and the concerns and needs of community groups and special interest organizations.
• Knowledge of public relations, marketing, and public information concepts and practices.
• Knowledge of environmental regulations related to public lands, urban preserves, recreational facilities, and waterways.
• Knowledge of development, maintenance, and construction of recreation facilities; and project management.
• Skill in supervisory and managerial techniques and principles.
• Skill in oral and written communications.
• Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
• Skill in using computers and related software applications.
• Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
• Skill in fiscal planning, preparation, and analyzing budgets, reports, and studies.
• Ability to prepare and administer long range plans and capital improvement programs based on current and future demands on the parks and recreation system.
• Ability to maintain effective communication and working relationships with boards and commissions, outside agencies, City employees, and the public.

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Park or Recreation Administration, Public Administration, Business Administration or closely related, plus eight (8) years of related experience, five (5) of which were in a managerial capacity.
• Master’s degree from an accredited college or university may substitute for two (2) years of the required experience. .

• May be required to obtain a Certified Park and Recreation Professional Certificate (CPRP) or Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) issued by the National Recreation and Parks Association within one (1) year from date of employment.
• A valid Texas Class C driver’s license or have the ability to obtain within ninety (90) days of employment.