What are the responsibilities and job description for the PROGRAM MANAGER- FINLAY PARK position at City of Columbia, SC?
Salary : $80,000.00 - $110,000.00 Annually
Location : Columbia, SC
Job Type : Full-Time
Job Number : 202500045
Department : PARKS & RECREATION
Division : P&R ADMINISTRATION
Opening Date : 02 / 12 / 2025
Closing Date : 3 / 12 / 2025 11 : 59 PM Eastern
Pay Grade : 117
Description
The Program Manager is responsible for the daily operation, maintenance, programming, and overall management of a multi-use regional park featuring a concert stage, splash pad, destination playground, fountain and fitness court, with a strong focus on event / activity programming, concert promotions and entertainment programming. This role ensures the park provides a safe, enjoyable, and engaging environment for visitors while maintaining high standards of operational efficiency and community engagement.
The work is considered sedentary in nature and involves walking or standing some of the time and involves exerting up to 10 pounds of force on a recurring basis or routine keyboard operations. The work requires the following physical abilities to perform the essential job functions : climbing, feeling, mental acuity, reaching, repetitive motion, speaking, talking, visual acuity, and walking.
Work environment may involve exposure to bright / dim light, dusts and pollen, extreme heat and / or cold, wet or humid conditions, extreme noise levels, vibration, fumes and / or noxious odors, moving machinery, electrical shock, heights, toxic / caustic chemicals; and involves decisions that could lead to major community or organizational consequences.
Essential Job Functions
- Oversee daily operations of Finlay Park, ensuring all amenities (concert stage, splash pad, playground, fountain, fitness court) are functional and well-maintained;
- Coordinate with maintenance staff and contractors for routine upkeep, repairs, and inspections;
- Ensure the park complies with all safety, health, and environmental regulations.
- Plan, organize, and oversee park activities, events, and programs, including concerts, fitness classes, and community events;
- Collaborate with local organizations, schools, and businesses to develop partnerships and programming opportunities;
- Monitor participation and evaluate the success of programs, making adjustments as needed to meet community needs.
- Lead staff and volunteers to execute programing and events successfully;
- Recruit, train, and supervise event staff and interns;
- Develop work schedules and ensure adequate staffing during operational hours and special events.
- Foster a positive and productive work environment.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for the community, addressing inquiries, suggestions, and concerns;
- Assist in the promotion of park programs and events through marketing, social media, and public relations efforts;
- Build relationships with local stakeholders to encourage park usage and support.
- Develop and manage the park's budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources;
- Seek funding opportunities, including grants, sponsorships, and donations, to support park initiatives;
- Monitor and report financial performance, ensuring accountability and transparency.
- Implement and enforce safety protocols for staff and visitors;
- Coordinate with park rangers, local law enforcement and emergency services to ensure a safe park environment;
- Respond to emergencies and incidents promptly and effectively.
- Performs general administrative / clerical work as required, including but not limited to preparing reports and correspondence, attending meetings, entering and retrieving computer data, etc.;
- Attends meetings, training, conferences, seminars, etc., as appropriate to enhance job knowledge and skills; and
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
Qualifications
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS TO PERFORM WORK :
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
The City of Columbia is proud to offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees. This package includes health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
Part-time or temporary employees, including interns, are not eligible for City benefits.
To learn more details, visit our benefits page at :
Do you have a Bachelor's degree in Parks and Recreation Management, Public Administration, or a closely related field?
Do you have at least five (5) years of work experience relevant to this position?
Do you have a valid Driver's License?
Required Question
Salary : $80,000 - $110,000