Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation

About The Position

Saint Paul Parks and Recreation is hiring two Deputy Directors to strengthen its executive leadership team. These roles support the Director in advancing high-quality services, strong operations, and meaningful community impact across the park system.

Deputy Director – Operations and Organizational Services

Leads the systems and infrastructure that support service delivery across the department. This role oversees financial management, human resources, and internal operations, while advancing efficient processes, strong workforce practices, and effective coordination of capital projects and partnerships.

• Direct financial oversight of operating, capital, and grant resources
• Lead human resources strategy, workforce development, and labor relations
• Strengthen internal systems, processes, and technology to improve efficiency
• Coordinate capital planning and project implementation with internal and external partners

Deputy Director – Community Recreation & Youth Development

Leads citywide recreation and youth development programs, with a focus on welcoming, accessible services for all communities. This role oversees recreation centers, youth initiatives, and partnerships, while strengthening program quality, community connections, and long-term sustainability.

• Provide leadership for recreation center operations and youth development initiatives
• Build and maintain partnerships with schools, community organizations, and public safety
• Advance equitable access, participation, and community engagement
• Support program sustainability through earned revenue strategies and service alignment

Position Requirements

A Bachelor's Degree in Parks and Recreation Administration, Public Administration, Landscape Architecture, Environmental Sciences, or a related field and five (5) years of public administration experience, three (3) of which relate to the field of Parks and Recreation. A combination of education and experience to equal 9 years or more can be used to qualify for the position.

Compensation and Benefits

The Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation is part of the Non-Represented City Managers employee group (Employee Group 17). The salary range for this position is $118,497.60 – $175,968.00 annually , with starting salary dependent on qualifications and experience.

Benefits

• Employer-paid 100% of single health insurance premiums and 80% of dependent coverage
• Employer-paid life insurance equal to 1.5x annual salary
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage provided by the City
• 17–29 days of paid vacation annually
• 6 personal leave days each year (cashed out if unused)
• 11 paid holidays annually
• Paid parental leave up to 8 weeks (320 hours)
• Deferred compensation match up to $2,500 annually
• Eligibility for additional employer contributions
• Potential for recognition pay up to 5% of annual salary based on performance

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The City of Saint Paul is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. Veterans, women, persons of color, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and individuals with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

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