Parks and Recreation Director

Overview

This is a management position responsible for the Parks & Recreational programs and facilities of the City. Work involves coordination of inclusive community enrichment programs in recreation through the development and use of appropriate facilities, equipment, and trained personnel. Incumbent works under the supervision of the Mayor.

• Provide overall leadership and strategic direction for the planning, operation, maintenance, and improvement of the City’s parks, recreational facilities, and programs, which also includes T.C. Russell Field and the Nutrition Center.
• Manages assigned staff, including establishing workloads, prioritizing work assignments, evaluating employee performance, enforcing policies and procedures, and making hiring or termination recommendations.
• Develops preventative maintenance, capital improvement programs, and short and long-term plans.
• Create, implement and evaluate programs, projects, events, and activities to ensure effective use of resources and continuous improvement of services.
• Directs departmental budget preparation, including monitoring expenses, preparing budgetary forecasts, administering approved budget, and ensuring revenue is properly accounted for.
• Serves as the primary point of contact for community engagement related to Parks & Recreation programs, facilities, and events.
• Oversees departmental communication, including preparing various reports and information for staff, citizens, supervisors and elected officials.
• Responds to and resolves citizens’ complaints concerning park conditions and/or recreational programs and services
• Represents the City and the Parks & Recreation Department at internal meetings, public forums, advisory boards, and City-wide functions.
• Performs other job-related duties as required.

• Knowledge of principles and best practices related to public parks, recreation programs, and facility management.
• Knowledge of parks maintenance methods, equipment, materials, and safety standards.
• Ability to plan, organize, direct, and evaluate the work of supervisory, administrative, and maintenance staff.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with employees, elected officials, community groups, and the general public.
• Ability to manage budgets, prioritize resources, and plan for long-term capital and operational needs.

• Must be a graduate of an accredited high school or possess a GED. Bachelor’s degree with specialization in recreation, physical education, public administration, or related preferred.
• Must have at least five (5) years of progressively responsible management experience preferably in the operation of parks and recreational programs and facilities or a related field.
• Possess or obtain job-related professional certifications such as Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP), Certified Parks and Recreation Executive (CPRE), etc.
• Must have a valid driver’s license with a driving record suitable for insurability.
• Willing to work non-standard hours, nights, and weekends as necessary.
• Willing to travel overnight to attend continuing education courses and workshops.
• Must be physically able to perform the essential functions of this position.

Posting Dates: 1/20/2026 – 2/3/2026

City employees interested in this position should submit resumes to the Human Resources Department. External candidates may apply online  or in person at the Municipal Complex. Seniority alone will not be the determining factor. Applicants must meet all requirements.

Alexander City is an Equal Opportunity Employer