Recreation and Parks Director

The City of Essex Junction is seeking an experienced, strategic, and community-focused professional to serve as Director of Recreation and Parks. This senior leadership position is responsible for planning, directing, and overseeing comprehensive recreation programs, parks, facilities, and services that enhance the quality of life for all residents. The Director provides visionary leadership, ensures operational excellence, and fosters strong partnerships across the community.

Pay/Wages The pay rate is between  $89,556.00- $114,410.00.

Benefits (this is not a comprehensive list of benefits)

• 3 weeks paid vacation to start.
• 14 paid holidays
• 18 sick days per year
• Retirement benefits include a pension plan (VMERS C) or deferred compensation plan (VMERS DC) , and the ability to contribute to a 457, Traditional IRA or ROTH
• Generous health insurance benefit in which the City pays 94% of the premium for medical and the first 80% of the deductible. After that, you are only responsible for the next 20%, which is not more than $640.00 for single plans and no more than $1280.00 for all other plans for covered medical expenses.
• Generous opt out cash incentives (up to $1056.02 for a family)
• 100% employer paid for dental and vision
• 100% employer paid short-term disability and life insurance
• Qualified Employer for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness Program

Position Summary

Under the general direction of the City Manager and in accordance with policies established by the Board, the Director of Recreation and Parks ensures the delivery of high-quality, inclusive, and financially responsible recreation and parks services. The Director oversees department administration, staff leadership, program development, fiscal management, long-range planning, and community relations.

Key Responsibilities

Department Administration

• Direct and supervise all operations of the Recreation and Parks Department in alignment with City policies and strategic goals.
• Establish, review, and coordinate administrative procedures to ensure efficient, cost-effective service delivery.
• Oversee scheduling and use of the Maple Street Recreation Center for daily, evening, and weekend programming.

Leadership & Staff Management

• Recruit, hire, supervise, and evaluate department personnel; foster a positive and collaborative work environment.
• Organize, assign, and train staff; support professional development and effective performance management.
• Develop and maintain a comprehensive volunteer program to support recreation services.

Programs, Services & Parks

• Develop and administer a broad, diverse portfolio of recreation, education, and leisure programs that respond to community needs.
• Serve as an ex-officio consultant and liaison to public and private agencies on recreation and parks matters.
• Evaluate park and facility needs; develop and implement capital improvement plans in coordination with Public Works.
• Oversee the implementation of technology solutions for program registration, communication, publications, and operations.

Planning & Research

• Analyze departmental effectiveness and assess current and future community recreation needs.
• Monitor trends and best practices in the recreation and parks profession.
• Recommend short- and long-term plans to ensure adequate facilities, programs, staffing, and resources.

Public & Community Relations

• Communicate the philosophy, objectives, and benefits of the City’s recreation and parks programs to the public.
• Promote community engagement and utilization of parks and recreation facilities.
• Build and maintain collaborative relationships with schools, community organizations, governmental agencies, and professional associations.
• Represent the department at public meetings, community forums, and professional events.

Fiscal Management

• Provide overall oversight of departmental budgets exceeding $2.5 million, including General, Program, and Capital Funds.
• Prepare, justify, and administer annual budgets; ensure compliance and sound financial controls.
• Recommend fees and charges for programs and services; oversee revenue projections and financial reporting.
• Confer regularly with the City Manager and attend department head and City Council meetings as required.

Records & Reporting

• Maintain accurate and comprehensive records of department activities, personnel, and assets.
• Prepare regular and special reports for City leadership, boards, and the community.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in recreation, parks management, or a related field.
• Minimum of ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in public recreation and parks, including at least five (5) years in a supervisory or administrative role.
• Certified Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP).
• Current First Aid and CPR certification (or ability to obtain promptly).
• Demonstrated expertise in budgeting, staff leadership, program development, and community engagement.
• Strong written, verbal, analytical, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Advanced proficiency with computer applications, including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and Microsoft Office.

Preferred

• Master’s degree in recreation or a related discipline.
• Certified Parks and Recreation Executive (CPRE), or eligibility with the ability to obtain certification within one year of appointment.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

This position involves a combination of office work and field activities, including exposure to outdoor weather conditions. The role requires the ability to stand, walk, sit, communicate effectively, and occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.

Travel

Occasional travel is required for local, state, regional, and national meetings and professional conferences. Applications will be reviewed as they are received.

The City of Essex Junction is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. A diverse team strengthens our ability to serve the community.