For more information, please visit: https://www.metroparkstacoma.org/careers/director

The Director of Parks and Recreation reports to the Executive Director and oversees a staff of over 220 career full-time employees plus 800 part-time and seasonal workers. The Director oversees a biennial budget of over $50 million. This leader oversees the administration, financial management, personnel and operations of the Parks and Recreation Department within Metro Parks. The Department is separated into three divisions: 1) Business Operations; 2) Neighborhood Parks & Facilities; and 3) Regional Parks & Attractions.

Major assets include Point Defiance Park, Ruston Way waterfront parks, Point Defiance Boathouse & Marina, Meadow Park Golf Course, Fort Nisqually Living History Museum, the historic Seymour Botanical Conservatory, urban forestry, 4 community centers, 3 indoor pools and 2 outdoor pools, 10 spraygrounds, 46 playgrounds, dozens of neighborhood parks, 87 miles of trails and activation of 47 elementary and middle schools for afterschool clubs and activities.

This position aligns vision with Executive Director, collaborates with the district’s two other Department Directors, elected Park Board Commissioners, and community stakeholders to provide leadership and decision-making that serves the needs of the Department, the District and Tacoma community.

Success in this role requires mastery of executive skills and behavioral competencies that support the district’s overall performance and further its transformative impact on the communities and populations it serves. These executive skills and competencies include but are not limited to: strategic thinking; leadership and organizational development; program strategy and vision alignment; leading and managing change; external awareness; financial management; workforce planning; cultural competency; champion of diversity and inclusion; stewardship and conservation; advocacy; external collaboration; entrepreneurship; mentoring staff; influencing others; building high performance; commitment to results; resilience; and accountability.

A Bachelor's degree in public administration, business, recreation management, park administration or related field required, masters degree desired. At least ten years of increasingly responsible experience in Parks and Recreation, with at least five years of senior level management experience in a public sector setting required. An additional four years of senior management experience may substitute for the degree.  Must have valid driver's license with acceptable driving record.

About Metro Parks Tacoma

Metro Parks Tacoma (MPT) is a CAPRA-accredited and AZA-accredited, independent park district that leads efforts to build a healthy, sustainable community. Located in Tacoma, Washington, Metro Parks’ mission is to create healthy opportunities to play, learn, and grow. The independent park district spans the city providing a wide range of life-enriching destinations and services, including 70+ parks, 80+ miles of trails, 1,000+ acres of urban forest, 66 playgrounds, four community centers, Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, Point Defiance Park, and much more. Our work is guided by eight core values that are the foundation of our actions and goals: innovation, excellence, equity, inclusiveness, sustainability, accountability, safety, and fun.

Connections working at Metro Parks Tacoma