Job Description

Parks and Recreation Director
City of Cedar Rapids 

Job Description
The City of Cedar Rapids is seeking an experienced and passionate leader to serve as our new Parks and Recreation Director. This is an exciting opportunity for an individual who values community engagement, outdoor recreation, and enhancing the quality of life for residents of all ages. As the Parks and Recreation Director, you will oversee the planning, development, and management of our parks, recreational programs, golf courses, and community events. You will work closely with city officials, community partners, and residents to ensure our parks and programs are accessible, inclusive, and enriching for all.

About our Organization
At the City, we are committed to employing individuals who reflect our community’s diverse backgrounds and this position is crucial in the success and strategic direction of a growing and evolving community. We appreciate and leverage the vast experience individuals bring beyond the technical requirements of a job. If you are an individual with similar experience listed here please consider applying. Experience and skills combined with commitment to our core values is key to building a greater community now and for the next generation.

About our Community
Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Cedar Rapids is our vibrant and diverse community known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Our city has a strong sense of community which can be seen at any of our numerous parks, recreational opportunities, and family-friendly events year round. You can also explore our thriving downtown district, filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, or take a stroll along the Cedar River, which runs through the heart of the city. 

About the Position
Provides strategic leadership, administration, and oversight of the operational, financial, personnel, and capital improvement functions of the Parks and Recreation Department, which includes Recreation, Parks, Ushers Ferry Historical Village, ReLeaf and Golf ensuring programs and services are accessible and responsive to the needs of the entire community.This position will be advertised until filled.The City of Cedar Rapids does not offer sponsorship for employment authorization.

Qualifications
Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Recreation Management, Park Management, Public Administration or a related field and seven to nine years of experience in recreation management and/or park management in a municipal or similar setting OR
• An equivalent combination of education and/or experience (i.e. one year of relevant full-time experience may substitute for one year of education)Experience leading and managing staff
• Experience managing large operational and capital budgets, ensuring financial sustainability and efficiency.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with community members, stakeholders, and teams.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse populations
• Desired Qualifications
• Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in Recreation Management, Park Management, Public Administration
• National Recreation & Parks Association (NRPA) recognized certified Park and Recreation Professional
• Work Schedule
• Monday - Friday 7:30am to 4:30pm

• The City of Cedar Rapids is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All job applicants will receive consideration for employment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age (40 or older), disability and genetic information (including family medical history).

• We respect and value people with disabilities and are committed to providing a workplace culture of disability inclusion. People with disabilities are supported during the hiring process and are encouraged to apply for employment with the City of Cedar Rapids. In support of the Americans with Disabilities Act, reasonable accommodations will be provided to those in need of assistance with the application and interview process. To request an accommodation, contact the City's Human Resources department by phone at 319-286-5000 or by email.

Salary/Salary Range
$118,227.20 - $165,505.60 Annually

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Closing Date
April 18, 2025

Date Posted
March 18, 2025

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