Director of Parks and Recreation

GENERAL SUMMARY: Performs administrative and supervisory work involved with the development and management of a diversified municipal recreation department: manages day-to-day direction of the operations of the department. Responsible for planning, organizing, directing and administration of the Town’s recreation programs, facilities and department; hires, trains and supervises appropriate staff and volunteers for the department’s operation; is responsible for budgeting, purchasing and maintaining equipment and facilities.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Plans long range goals and short term objectives, organizational structure and overall direction for the department; assures that goals are completed according to the plan.
• Studies local conditions, needs and trends affecting the recreation requirements of the Town; meets with community groups to gather ideas and discuss plans. Works with various committees, groups, leagues, other departments and committees to develop short and long range plans to meet community needs for recreation space, facilities, personnel and programs.
• Develops, coordinates and implements a broad and diversified program of recreational services, activities, events and programs to meet the needs of the public.
• Evaluates programs in terms of participant satisfaction, budgetary, facility and staff needs and effectiveness.
• Prepares, presents and administers the department’s budget; maintains records and documentation of projects, programs and monies spent; sets fees and charges for programs and facilities; investigates alternative funding when appropriate, applies for grants, and revenue opportunities for recreation programs and development.
• Recruits, hires, trains, supervises and evaluates full and part time staff and volunteers; responsible for reviewing all personnel records to ensure they are up to date, accurate and properly filed.
• Maintains inventory of public recreation equipment, property and facilities as well as the department’s records and history; coordinates with the school system for shared use of facilities and equipment; works with other organizations, leagues and departments for use of facilities and equipment; maintains cooperation in planning and working with other town departments, the school system, the public and voluntary agencies; serves as liaison with other departments and local organizations.
• Creates, develops, communicates and monitors policies, procedures and standards for staff, volunteers, programs, facilities and the department’s operation.
• Attends meetings, trainings and conferences required to keep up with trends, best practices and to improve programs, facilities and ensure the health and safety of participants, volunteers and staff.
• Performs special assignments to include researching and preparing reports and projects.
• Responds to public inquiries and complaints; promotes and maintains positive community relations; develops and carries out the public relations programs for the department.
• Designs and composes printed material and press releases, new articles, and promotion tools to publicize events, programs and activities.
• Responsible for the purchase, maintenance and inventory of uniforms, equipment and supplies; and facility maintenance and improvements; secures bids and contracts as necessary.
• Provides supervision, observation and participation, as necessary, for activities, events and programs offered by the Recreation Department.
• Maintains active membership in the New Hampshire Recreation and Park Association and National Recreation and Park Association.
• Ensures compliance with all safety rules and regulations.

OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Performs other related duties as requested.

DESIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Parks and Recreation Management or a related field with a minimum of five years experience in supervisory position in recreation and park management is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge and understanding of the recreational needs and desires of the residents and visitors of Farmington.
• Knowledge of principles and practices and/or organization and administration of parks and recreation management.
• Knowledge of administrative principles and practices, including, but not limited to; goal setting, program budget development, overseeing the Recreation Revolving Fund and implementation and program administration.
• Leadership qualities.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, orally and in writing.
• Knowledge of municipal financial and budgeting procedures.
• Knowledge of applicable state, federal and local laws, rule and regulations.
• Knowledge of program promotion and public relations development.
• Strong computer skills.
• Knowledge of risk management.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED: Directly or through subordinates, manages and supervises all department staff and volunteers including, interviewing, hiring, training, planning, assigning and directing work, appraising performance, rewarding and disciplining employees, addressing complaints and resolving conflicts. Carries out all supervisory functions in accordance with the Town’s rules, policies and applicable laws.

LICENSING AND CERTIFICATION: NH Drivers license with bus endorsement. American Red Cross CPR with AED and First Aide. DHHS Authorized Billing Agent.

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED: Computers, software, related peripherals; Town Vehicles, two-way radios, hand tools, shovels, rakes, chain saws, sports equipment, maintenance equipment, first aid equipment, lifeguard equipment, and other miscellaneous sports, recreation and playground equipment necessary to complete tasks.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; run; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk, see and hear. The employee must regularly stoop, bend, crouch or crawl; climb several flights of stairs, lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The employee is regularly exposed to outdoor weather conditions, and blood borne pathogens or other diseases. Work is performed in an office setting as well as at gymnasiums and outdoor playgrounds, beaches and a variety of other indoor and outdoor locations. The noise level in the work environment can be loud. The employee may be exposed to some mental stress due the need for attention to deadlines, the scope of responsibilities and exposure to the public. Frequent driving to various program sites or riding in vans or buses is required. Weekend, evening, and holiday hours are required in this position.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Ability to Commute:

• Farmington, NH 03835 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Farmington, NH 03835: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person