Director of Parks
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced visionary and collaborative leader to serve as Denver’s next Director of Parks. The Director of Parks will lead a diverse team responsible for maintaining high-quality parks, open spaces, and recreational assets across the city. This role is ideal for a strategic thinker who thrives in a dynamic environment and is committed to advancing equity, operational excellence, and strong interdepartmental partnerships. The Director of Parks will lead high-performing teams, manage significant operating resources, drive strategic priorities outlined in the Game Plan for a Healthy City, and champion innovative practices in sustainability, service delivery, and asset stewardship. This position reports to senior leadership within the department and plays a critical role in shaping the future of Denver’s park system.
Responsibilities
Leadership & Team Development - Provide direction, mentorship, and support to Parks Operations managers, supervisors, and staff. - Foster a culture grounded in equity, collaboration, accountability, safety, and continuous improvement. - Promote effective communication and engagement across all levels of the organization. Operational Management - Develop, implement, and evaluate parks maintenance standards, ensuring consistency, quality, and alignment with community expectations. - Oversee daily operations including landscaping, facilities maintenance, asset management, and seasonal programs. - Manage budgets, contracts, and resource allocation to support efficient service delivery. Cross-Department Collaboration - Build and maintain strong working relationships with citywide partners, including the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI), and other operational divisions. - Coordinate joint initiatives, shared maintenance responsibilities, and integrated service strategies. Community & Stakeholder Engagement - Represent the department with elected officials, executive leadership, community groups, neighborhood stakeholders, and partner agencies. - Respond to residents’ concerns and inquiries with professionalism and a solutions-oriented approach. - Build collaborative relationships that strengthen public trust and improve outcomes. Strategic Planning & Improvement - Identify opportunities to enhance operational systems, workforce development, and service equity. - Lead or support long-term planning efforts related to parks infrastructure, sustainability, and capital improvements.
Qualifications
We are seeking a seasoned leader who/with: - Demonstrates a strong commitment to equity, inclusive leadership, and collaborative problem-solving. - Knowledge of park maintenance standards, urban landscapes, irrigation systems, and public asset stewardship. - Excels at engaging effectively and building trust with staff at all levels—from frontline crews to executive leadership. - Brings excellent communication, relationship-building, and change‑management skills. - Thrives in a fast-paced environment with competing priorities and diverse stakeholders. - Experience managing large teams through multiple layers of leadership. - Strong background in budget administration, workforce planning, and organizational management. - Ability to build trust with residents, boards, and elected officials. - Familiarity with enterprise asset management systems and data-informed operations Preferred Qualifications: - Experience working in a municipal or public-sector environment. - Demonstrated success leading equity-focused initiatives or workforce development programs. - Familiarity with asset management systems, performance metrics, or quality assurance programs. - A bachelor’s degree in Parks and Recreation Management, Landscape Architecture, Environmental Management, Urban Planning, Natural Resource Management, Environmental Science, Forestry, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field - A valid and current driver’s license at the time of application Required Minimum Qualifications - Education requirement: Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration or a related field based on a specific position(s). - Experience Requirement: Five (5) years of experience at the type and level of functional or operational management, which must have included management of subordinate supervisors. - Education/Experience Equivalency: Two (2) years of the appropriate type and level of experience may be substituted for each required year of post-high school education. Additional appropriate education may be substituted for the minimum experience requirements. - License/Certifications: None
Preferred Level of Education
Bachelor's Degree
Benefits Offered
The City and County of Denver offers a competitive salary commensurate with education and experience. The hiring salary range for this position is $109,134/year - $155,000/year, based on experience. We also offer generous benefits for full-time employees which include, but are not limited to: A guaranteed life-long monthly pension, once vested after 5 years of service 457B Retirement Plan 140 hours of PTO earned within first year + 11 paid holidays, 1 personal holiday and 1 volunteer day per year Competitive medical, dental, and vision plans effective within 1 month of start date More information about the perks and benefits we provide to full-time employees to allow them to find balance, thrive, and build a mile high career can be found on our website.
Compensation/Salary
$109,134/year - $155,000/year, based on experience
How to Apply
Follow this link to apply: https://denver.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/CCD-denver-denvergov-CSC_Jobs-Civil_service_jobs-Police_Jobs-Fire_Jobs/job/Downtown-Denver/Director-of-Parks---Department-of-Parks-and-Recreation_R0080373-1
About City and County of Denver
With competitive pay, great benefits, and endless opportunities, working for the City and County of Denver means seeing yourself working with purpose — for you, and those who benefit from your passion, skills, and expertise. Join our diverse, inclusive, and talented workforce of more than 11,000 team members who are at the heart of what makes Denver, Denver.
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Equal Employment Opportunity
The City and County of Denver provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, national origin, disability, genetic information, military status, age, marital status, political affiliation, or any other status protected under federal, state, and/or local law.