Director of Parks | Department of Parks and Recreation

With competitive pay, great benefits, and endless opportunities, working for the City and County of Denver means seeing yourself working with purpose — for you, and those who benefit from your passion, skills, and expertise. Join our diverse, inclusive, and talented workforce of more than 11,000 team members who are at the heart of what makes Denver, Denver.We are seeking an experienced visionary and collaborative leader to serve as Denver’s next **Director of Parks.** The Director of Parks will lead a diverse team responsible for maintaining high-quality parks, open spaces, and recreational assets across the city. This role is ideal for a strategic thinker who thrives in a dynamic environment and is committed to advancing equity, operational excellence, and strong interdepartmental partnerships.* Build and maintain strong working relationships with citywide partners, including the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI), and other operational divisions.* Coordinate joint initiatives, shared maintenance responsibilities, and integrated service strategies.* Demonstrates a strong commitment to equity, inclusive leadership, and collaborative problem-solving.* Knowledge of park maintenance standards, urban landscapes, irrigation systems, and public asset stewardship.* Excels at engaging effectively and building trust with staff at all levels—from frontline crews to executive leadership.* Brings excellent communication, relationship-building, and change‐management skills.* Thrives in a fast-paced environment with competing priorities and diverse stakeholders.* Experience managing large teams through multiple layers of leadership.* Strong background in budget administration, workforce planning, and organizational management.* Ability to build trust with residents, boards, and elected officials.* Familiarity with enterprise asset management systems and data-informed operations* Experience working in a municipal or public-sector environment.* Demonstrated success leading equity-focused initiatives or workforce development programs.* Familiarity with asset management systems, performance metrics, or quality assurance programs.* A bachelor’s degree in Parks and Recreation Management, Landscape Architecture, Environmental Management, Urban Planning, Natural Resource Management, Environmental Science, Forestry, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related field* A valid and current driver’s license at the time of application* Education requirement: Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration or a related field based on a specific position(s).* Experience Requirement: Five (5) years of experience at the type and level of functional or operational management, which must have included management of subordinate supervisors.* Education/Experience Equivalency: Two (2) years of the appropriate type and level of experience may be substituted for each required year of post-high school education. Additional appropriate education may be substituted for the minimum experience requirements.* License/Certifications: None### Work With UsWith competitive pay, , and endless opportunities, working for the City and County of Denver means seeing yourself working with purpose — for you, and those who benefit from your passion, skills and expertise.See yourself experiencing growth and balance.See yourself being respected and valued.See yourself belonging here.Join our diverse, inclusive and talented workforce of more than 11,000 team members who are at the heart of what makes Denver, Denver.**Your journey starts right here.****#SeeYourselfHere**Never miss Dever Jobs— #J-18808-Ljbffr