Parks & Recreation Director

About the role

The City of Walla Walla is recruiting its first Parks & Recreation Director in about 24 years. Reporting to the City Manager, the Director plans, organizes and directs the city's parks, recreation and facilities operations, including parks, golf, cemetery, aquatics, sports, urban forestry and other community programs. As a member of the City's executive Leadership Team, the Director helps shape citywide strategy, policy and emergency preparedness.

Key responsibilities

• Develop short- and long-range plans and prepare and administer the biennial budget
• Oversee capital projects and contracts, and ensure services are delivered effectively and responsibly
• Lead and develop departmental staff and build relationships with community members and partners
• Help develop a sustainable approach to funding capital projects after the recent ballot measure failed
• Manage rising utility costs, especially water, while balancing fiscal constraints with public expectations

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in recreation, public administration or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• At least 8 years of progressively responsible relevant experience, including 4 years of supervisory experience in parks and recreation
• Valid state driver's license
• Preferred: master's degree, public-sector city or county experience, ISA certification, and bilingual Spanish

What we offer

• Salary of $153,993 - $187,356
• Medical, dental, vision and orthodontia insurance, with city contributions toward family coverage
• $50,000 city-paid life and AD&D insurance
• PERS retirement plan and deferred compensation with a 3.5% city match
• 20 days of vacation (25 with longevity), 10 paid holidays and 40 floating holidays
• Sick leave of 8 hours per month, wellness program and YMCA membership discount
• Possible relocation assistance, professional development support and front-loaded vacation