PARK SUPERINTENDENT IV

Location: Petit Jean State Park, Morrilton, AR 72110

Anticipated starting salary: $76,334.96

About the Role

The Park Superintendent IV is the highest-level leadership position within Arkansas' state park system, responsible for the strategic oversight, operational excellence, and long-term sustainability of a major state park or multiple park sites. This role involves managing complex budgets, large-scale park operations, high-profile public engagement, and staff leadership to ensure the successful operation of Arkansas' premier outdoor recreational assets.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership in the management of a large, complex park or multiple park sites.
• Develop and implement long-term strategic plans to ensure sustainable park operations, conservation, and visitor engagement.
• Oversee policy development, operational procedures, and regulatory compliance to meet state and federal environmental laws.
• Direct budget planning, fiscal management, and revenue generation strategies to ensure financial sustainability.
• Supervise facility managers, park interpreters, park rangers, naturalists, maintenance staff, administrative personnel, and seasonal employees, including hiring, performance evaluation, and staff development.
• Oversee the development of educational programs, interpretive exhibits, and recreational activities to promote public awareness and engagement.
• Act as the primary liaison with community organizations, tourism partners, government agencies, and the media.
• Manage natural and cultural resources, ensuring the protection of Arkansas' diverse ecosystems and historical sites.
• Assist in educational and recreational programs, ensuring alignment with conservation and heritage goals.
• Oversee habitat restoration, wildlife management, and sustainable land-use initiatives.
• Ensure park infrastructure and facilities are maintained to high environmental and safety standards.
• Enforce state park laws, emergency response protocols, and public safety initiatives.
• Conduct risk assessments, facility inspections, and crisis response training.
• Collaborate with law enforcement, emergency services, and conservation officers to ensure visitor and staff safety.
• Develop and oversee concessionaire agreements, special events, and grant-funded projects to enhance park revenue.

Requirements

• At least five years of experience in park management, natural resource management, outdoor recreation administration, or a related field, including three years in a leadership capacity.
• Strong strategic decision-making, problem-solving, and conflict resolution abilities.
• Proven experience in team leadership, organizational development, and operational oversight.
• Ability to manage large-scale budgets, procurement, and resource allocation.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills for engaging with stakeholders, policymakers, and the public.
• Strong public speaking and presentation skills for community outreach and partnership development.
• Experience in public relations, media relations, and intergovernmental collaboration.
• Proficiency in budget forecasting, park planning, and project management.
• Experience in facilities maintenance, trail management, and infrastructure development.
• Knowledge of environmental regulations, state park laws, and sustainability practices.
• Expertise in natural resource management, land conservation, and ecosystem restoration.
• Familiarity with GIS mapping, environmental monitoring, and disaster preparedness.
• Strong crisis management and emergency response coordination skills.
• Awareness and ability to respond to first aid, CPR, and emergency response protocols (training will be provided).

Pay

Salary range: $76,335 - $112,976