Do you enjoy a relaxing canoe ride down the river? Or maybe you get a thrill out of climbing rocks and hiking to the top of a mountain. If you have a passion for outdoor recreation and a deep appreciation for nature, we are a perfect place to come and help Durham residents Play More! You will have an opportunity to inspire others and share your love for nature. We are looking for someone to lead a passionate team dedicated to making the outdoors accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

This position oversees outdoor recreation, historic programming, two historical heritage Parks, and two city lakes. This includes administration and management of environmental and science education, adventure and exploration, activities on our City Lakes, camping, history education and mill demonstrations, among other outdoor experiences. The manager of this unit supervises full-time staff and makes decisions toward implementing established department goals, including strategic development of program plans, organization and scheduling, development of policies and procedures, and management of multiple facilities.

Responsible for supervising facilities, programs, and staff; establishing relationships with stakeholders; developing and managing assigned budgets; seeing additional programming resources through grants, partnerships, etc.; assisting in the development of long-range plans; and maintaining and preparing records and reports.

Supervises professional, support staff including conducting performance evaluations, training, and hiring, and implementing discipline and termination procedures.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Manages program, project, event, and recreation facilities; supervises staff and operations, including planning, assigning, and evaluating work; develops policies and procedures; assists with developing long-range plans; plans, prioritizes, evaluates, and approves programs, projects, and events; plans and implements process and operational improvements; performs quality assurance; and ensures that safety and operational regulations, policies, and procedures are followed.
• Develops and manages assigned budgets; monitors expenditures; prepares cost estimates and forecasts; researches and analyzes program and financial data; makes or approves budget recommendations; allocates resources to achieve operational objectives; and researches alternative funding opportunities.
• Oversees, reviews and prepares documents including reports, records, contracts, invoices, permits, applications, and claims; researches, analyzes and reviews information; develops and makes recommendations; performs quality control reviews to ensure accuracy and completeness of work.
• Collaborates with community organizations, residents, vendors, City departments, and/or external agencies; convenes, attends and facilitates committees; represents the department in the community; establishes partnerships; conducts training; assesses community needs and prepares plans for addressing needs; resolves complex or escalated operational, customer service, or staffing issues.

Minimum Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in recreation, leisure services, or a related field.
• Five years of recreation programming and/or facility management experience in the area of assignment.
• Two years of supervisory experience.
• Valid, unrestricted, North Carolina driver's license "or" if you currently have another states driver's license, must be willing and able to obtain a valid NC driver's license within 60 days of hire. 

Additional Preferred Skills

• Experience in outdoor recreation.
• Experience as the lead staff member responsible for logistics, utilization of facilities, and staffing plans.

About City of Durham Parks and Recreation Department

Durham, NC: Welcome to Durham NC, A.K.A. The Bull City a city where the echoes of a rich history unite with the vibrant pulse of modern innovation and a promising future. Ideally positioned in the heart of the Triangle, Durham is proud to have a unique blend of culture, diversity, and opportunity. We have evolved into a thriving city, boasting a population exceeding 280,000 residents. Our diverse community is proud to embrace and strengthen all cultures and backgrounds and foster a spirit of inclusivity and collaboration. As the third fastest-growing city in the United States, our growth rate is a testament to its magnetic allure. Here, innovation knows no bounds. With a thriving economy fueled by a diverse array of industries from health care to technology, Durham offers a rich ground for a professional seeking to make their mark on the world stage. In Durham, education reigns supreme, with renowned institutions such as Duke University, North Carolina Central University, and Durham Technical Community College shaping the minds of tomorrow's leaders. Durham’s healthcare and technology industries stand as pillars of economic strength, with world-class facilities and groun...dbreaking research initiatives shaping the future of healthcare and technology. At the heart of Durham’s innovation ecosystem lies the legendary Research Triangle Park, A global epicenter of research, technology, and entrepreneurship. Here, collaboration thrives, and groundbreaking discoveries are made, propelling Durham to the forefront of scientific innovation. For entertainment and leisure, Durham is home to an impressive array of attractions, from the beloved Durham Bulls baseball team to the world class performances at the Durham Performing Arts Center. Nature enthusiasts can explore the city's picturesque parks and recreation areas, offering a sanctuary of tranquility amid the urban hustle. Renowned for its livability, Durham has gathered numerous accolades including recognition as one of the best places to live, work, and play in the United States. From its thriving art scene to its commitment to sustainability, Durham offers a quality of life that is second to none. Come be a part of the Bull City and help write the next chapter of Durham’s extraordinary story. Your journey starts here. #DoItInDurham Learn more here: https://www.discoverdurham.com/

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Connections working at City of Durham Parks and Recreation Department