City of Rapid City Parks & Recreation Director
Job Summary
This position is a key member of the City’s executive leadership team, responsible for directing the planning, development, and administration of the City’s parks, golf courses, pools and aquatic facilities, greenways and trails, open spaces, athletic fields, recreation centers, and community programs. This role ensures high-quality services, long-term stewardship of public assets, and strong community engagement that enhances residents’ quality of life.
Essential Duties And Responsibilities
Develop and implement a comprehensive system of parks, golf courses, greenways, trails, open spaces, and recreation facilities.
Oversee long-term strategic operational planning to support community growth, sustainability, and accessibility.
Lead, motivate, and develop team members, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Ensure safe, efficient, and customer-focused operations of parks, athletic fields, recreation centers, pools and aquatic facilities, and special-use facilities.
Oversee the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of parks, trails, recreation centers, aquatic facilities, and related infrastructure.
Oversee the development and enforcement of Parks and Recreation policies, procedures, and best practices to ensure regulatory compliance and operational effectiveness.
Oversee the development and management of department budgets, ensuring fiscal responsibility and accountability while implementing corrective actions when needed.
Build and maintain positive relationships with residents, businesses, non-profit organizations, and community partners.
Represent the Parks and Recreation department at City Council meetings, advisory boards, committees, and community events.
Work Environment
Occasional exposure to wet or humid conditions, moving mechanical parts, heights, fumes or airborne particles, and toxic or caustic chemicals.
Frequent exposure to noise levels that are typically moderate but may vary depending on location and activity.
Frequent sitting, communicating, and hearing during meetings and administrative tasks.
Occasional standing, walking, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling when inspecting facilities or project sites.
Occasional reaching with hands and arms.
Use of hands to handle or feel objects, tools, or equipment.
May require occasional tasting or smelling for things like environmental assessments.
Requires distance vision for facility inspections and field observations.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Parks and Recreation Administration, Public Administration, Business Management, or related area required.
Master’s degree preferred.
Ten years of progressively responsible experience in parks operations, recreation programming, or related area required, including seven years of leadership or management experience.
Must possess a valid South Dakota driver's license or ability to obtain within 30 days from date of hire.
Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) designation preferred.
Proven ability to lead large teams and manage complex departmental operations.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.