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City of University City, Missouri

Director of Parks and Recreation

City of University City, Missouri, University City, Missouri, United States

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1 week ago Be among the first 25 applicants Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features. Overview

The City of University City, MO

is seeking a creative, collaborative and community focused leader to serve as its next Director of Parks and Recreation. This executive level position reports to the Deputy City Manager – Development and is responsible for all operations and programs in parks, recreation, streets, and forestry. The new Director will establish and administer strategic goals, objectives and long-range planning for operations and programs within the department. The work involves responsibility for supervising all department activities, including the maintenance of parks, trees, streets, and the golf course. University City is a beautiful and historic inner-ring suburb of St. Louis adjacent to Washington University in St. Louis. It is a unique urban community with a strong mix of cultural, ethnic, social, and economic diversity. The Department of Parks and Recreation is responsible for the administration and operation of City parks, recreation programs and events, street maintenance, and maintaining over 30,000 trees that line the streets and parks. The department operates with a FY25 adopted budget of over $4 million and 30 FTEs and a host of seasonal employees throughout the year. Key Responsibilities

Plans, organizes, directs, supervises, and reviews all operations and programs in the areas of Parks, Recreation, Streets, and Forestry; plans staff organization and assigns personnel. Directs and evaluates subordinates; reviews operating and performance records and reports of departmental supervisors; prescribes and enforces departmental and City rules and regulations. Develops positive relations and partnerships with the community; coordinates responses to citizen concerns and complaints; liaises with the Park Commission and Senior Commission; resolves issues; develops public understanding and participation in programs through public-relations activities; ensures the coordination of marketing efforts and develops cooperative intergovernmental planning and working relationships. Consults with engineers, architects, landscape designers, horticulturists, recreation, and other specialists on department problems, activities, and programs; participates in activities of professional organizations. Prepares or directs the preparation of monthly and annual reports and special reports on department activities and operations; prepares, administers, and monitors the departmental budget. Serves as a member of the City leadership team. Candidate Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in parks and/or recreation management, sports management, public administration, or related field. Seven plus years of increasingly responsible experience in the management of public parks and recreation system and public areas maintenance, or similar client-based organization. A similar combination of education and experience may be considered. CPRP preferred. Experience managing enterprise-based, or self-supporting recreation programs is a plus. Salary Range and Benefits

The salary range is $102,700 to $151,446 DOQ with excellent benefits. The City offers group health insurance which includes major medical, prescription, vision and dental, an FSA, a defined benefit pension plan, life insurance, 457 deferred compensation plan, Traditional and Roth IRAs, long term disability, paid vacation and sick leave and holidays, funeral leave, employee assistance program, as well as other ancillary benefits. How to Apply

Interested candidates should apply online at www.GovHRjobs.com by

Friday, October 24, 2025 , with a resume, cover letter and contact information for 5 professional references to Joe DeLuce, MGT Senior Consultant, TEL: 217-714-2333 or Margaret Resnick, MGT Approved Independent Executive Recruiter, TEL: 847-971-1655. Equal Opportunity Employer

University City is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply, especially those who reflect the rich cultural diversity of our community. Seniority level

Director Employment type

Full-time Job function

Management Industries

Government Administration

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