Harris County
Working at Harris County Precinct 4
You will be surrounded by team members who bring “heart, hustle, and higher standards” to work each day. These leaders advance opportunity and justice as they deliver services to and advocate for the residents of Harris County. The team you will be joining is innovative, dynamic, and forward‑looking.
What you will do for Harris County Precinct 4 (HCP4) Harris County Precinct 4 is seeking a visionary and results‑driven Director of Parks to lead the strategic direction, operations, and stewardship of one of the most expansive and diverse park systems in the region. With 62 parks, over 14,000 acres of greenspace, 98 miles of trails, and 180 sports fields, the Director will oversee a premier park system that is vital to recreation, conservation, and community well‑being.
The Director of Parks provides high‑level leadership and direction for all aspects of park operations, capital improvement projects, safety and compliance, community partnerships, and environmental stewardship. This role requires a balance of strategic vision and hands‑on operational expertise, ensuring that every park and recreational facility embodies Heart, Hustle, and Higher Standards in service to the public.
Job Duties and Responsibilities Strategic Leadership
Lead the development and implementation of a long‑term vision for Precinct 4 parks, ensuring alignment with precinct‑wide goals, community priorities, and environmental sustainability.
Participate in the planning, design, and execution of major capital improvement projects, park enhancements, and infrastructure upgrades.
Develop and implement policies, programs, and initiatives that promote equitable access, community engagement, and environmental stewardship.
Build and sustain strategic partnerships with municipalities, HOAs, MUDs, community organizations, nonprofits, and other agencies to expand impact and resources.
Serve as the precinct’s liaison to external partners including U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on all park‑related matters.
Champion the precinct’s core values and represent the parks department at public meetings, community events, and with elected officials and stakeholders.
Operational Oversight
Provide executive oversight for all daily park operations, maintenance, programming, security, and asset management.
Ensure that parks and facilities are safe, well‑maintained, and meet or exceed regulatory, safety, and service standards.
Collaborate with internal divisions—including General Services, Operations, and Compliance—to ensure seamless service delivery.
Direct emergency preparedness and response for parks before, during, and after disasters; lead after‑action reporting and implementation of emergency action plans.
Monitor and analyze performance metrics to assess operational effectiveness, identify efficiencies, and drive continuous improvement.
Actively manage and prioritize projects through effective coordination with the Operations Project Manager and other internal partners.
Administrative & Fiscal Management
Develop, manage, and monitor the department’s operating and capital budgets.
Oversee the administration of contracts, MOUs, agreements, and vendor partnerships to ensure compliance and fiscal responsibility.
Prepare reports, presentations, and recommendations for senior leadership and Commissioners Court.
Develop, maintain, and update departmental job descriptions, policies, and procedures.
Ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations.
Leadership & Workforce Development
Build, mentor, and lead a diverse team of professionals committed to high‑quality service and operational excellence.
Establish staffing plans and schedules that support departmental priorities and optimize resources.
Foster a workplace culture that values accountability, innovation, safety, and collaboration.
Invest in professional development and training for staff to strengthen skills and grow departmental capacity.
Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx
Transportation and accommodation. If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274-5445 or email ADACoordinator@bmd.hctx.net.
Education
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four‑year college or university.
Experience
Minimum of five (5) years of leadership and personnel management experience, including at least two (2) years overseeing facilities, infrastructure, or program planning, design, or maintenance.
Demonstrated success in managing budgets, personnel, and complex projects.
Additional Requirements
Must possess a valid Texas driver’s license and maintain a good driving record.
An updated cover letter, résumé, and writing sample are required for all applicants.
Strong written communication skills are essential. Applicants must submit a writing sample that demonstrates their ability to convey information clearly and professionally. Preferred formats include a memo, standard operating procedure (SOP), project summary, manual or similar document that reflects the applicant’s ability to communicate technical or operational information effectively.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Strong leadership and strategic planning abilities with a proven track record of operational excellence.
Comprehensive knowledge of park planning, design, operations, maintenance, programming, and environmental best practices.
Familiarity with applicable federal, state, county, and city laws, codes, and regulations.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to engage effectively with diverse audiences, including staff, the public, community partners, and elected officials.
Analytical and problem‑solving skills with the ability to make data‑informed decisions.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams) and relevant management software.
NOTE Qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills must be documented on your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but only information stated on the application will be used for consideration. Resume will not be accepted for qualifications.
Education (Preferred)
Master’s degree in Parks and Recreation Management, Public Administration, Environmental Science, or a related field of study from an accredited college or university (preferred).
Experience (Preferred)
Experience with grant writing and administration (preferred).
Previous experience managing large‑scale park systems and capital improvement programs (preferred).
Certificate (Preferred)
Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) designation from National Recreation and Park Association (preferred).
Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) certification (preferred).
Affiliations with local, state, and/or national organizations that promote and share the state of the industry information and best practices supporting parks (preferred).
Position Type, Salary and Typical Hours of Work
Regular | Full‑time.
Location
P4 Headquarters located at 3131 Eastside St, Houston, TX 77098.
Work Environment and Physical Demands
This position requires a significant amount of time outdoors and exposure to a variety of environmental and extreme weather conditions. This position also requires traveling to parks located throughout the precinct and at long distances. The ability to work outdoors during all seasons and to drive safely is essential. The ability to operate standard office equipment and software platforms is required.
Essential functions involve significant physical demands related to repeated lifting of up to 50 pounds unassisted, 100 pounds with assistance rarely; carrying tools, materials, and equipment over rough terrain; climbing, reaching, and bending. Frequently to walk, sit, talk, drive, hear, bend, stoop, twist, and balance.
What You Will Get in Return You will be surrounded by team members who bring “heart, hustle, and higher standards” to work each day. These leaders advance opportunity and justice as they deliver services to and advocate for the residents of Harris County. The team you will be joining is innovative, dynamic, and forward‑looking.
Featured Benefits Harris County employees receive a competitive salary plus medical, dental, and vision insurance at no cost to the employee after the first two months of full‑time continued employment. Vacation, sick‑time, and floating holidays allow our employees to recharge and balance work and personal time. Mandatory participation in our retirement program allows employees to save for retirement. Various other benefits and discounts lead to the satisfaction and engagement of our employees.
HARRIS COUNTY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx
If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274-5445 or email ADACoordinator@bmd.hctx.net.
Employment is contingent upon passing a background check and drug screen.
Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
What you will do for Harris County Precinct 4 (HCP4) Harris County Precinct 4 is seeking a visionary and results‑driven Director of Parks to lead the strategic direction, operations, and stewardship of one of the most expansive and diverse park systems in the region. With 62 parks, over 14,000 acres of greenspace, 98 miles of trails, and 180 sports fields, the Director will oversee a premier park system that is vital to recreation, conservation, and community well‑being.
The Director of Parks provides high‑level leadership and direction for all aspects of park operations, capital improvement projects, safety and compliance, community partnerships, and environmental stewardship. This role requires a balance of strategic vision and hands‑on operational expertise, ensuring that every park and recreational facility embodies Heart, Hustle, and Higher Standards in service to the public.
Job Duties and Responsibilities Strategic Leadership
Lead the development and implementation of a long‑term vision for Precinct 4 parks, ensuring alignment with precinct‑wide goals, community priorities, and environmental sustainability.
Participate in the planning, design, and execution of major capital improvement projects, park enhancements, and infrastructure upgrades.
Develop and implement policies, programs, and initiatives that promote equitable access, community engagement, and environmental stewardship.
Build and sustain strategic partnerships with municipalities, HOAs, MUDs, community organizations, nonprofits, and other agencies to expand impact and resources.
Serve as the precinct’s liaison to external partners including U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on all park‑related matters.
Champion the precinct’s core values and represent the parks department at public meetings, community events, and with elected officials and stakeholders.
Operational Oversight
Provide executive oversight for all daily park operations, maintenance, programming, security, and asset management.
Ensure that parks and facilities are safe, well‑maintained, and meet or exceed regulatory, safety, and service standards.
Collaborate with internal divisions—including General Services, Operations, and Compliance—to ensure seamless service delivery.
Direct emergency preparedness and response for parks before, during, and after disasters; lead after‑action reporting and implementation of emergency action plans.
Monitor and analyze performance metrics to assess operational effectiveness, identify efficiencies, and drive continuous improvement.
Actively manage and prioritize projects through effective coordination with the Operations Project Manager and other internal partners.
Administrative & Fiscal Management
Develop, manage, and monitor the department’s operating and capital budgets.
Oversee the administration of contracts, MOUs, agreements, and vendor partnerships to ensure compliance and fiscal responsibility.
Prepare reports, presentations, and recommendations for senior leadership and Commissioners Court.
Develop, maintain, and update departmental job descriptions, policies, and procedures.
Ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations.
Leadership & Workforce Development
Build, mentor, and lead a diverse team of professionals committed to high‑quality service and operational excellence.
Establish staffing plans and schedules that support departmental priorities and optimize resources.
Foster a workplace culture that values accountability, innovation, safety, and collaboration.
Invest in professional development and training for staff to strengthen skills and grow departmental capacity.
Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx
Transportation and accommodation. If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274-5445 or email ADACoordinator@bmd.hctx.net.
Education
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four‑year college or university.
Experience
Minimum of five (5) years of leadership and personnel management experience, including at least two (2) years overseeing facilities, infrastructure, or program planning, design, or maintenance.
Demonstrated success in managing budgets, personnel, and complex projects.
Additional Requirements
Must possess a valid Texas driver’s license and maintain a good driving record.
An updated cover letter, résumé, and writing sample are required for all applicants.
Strong written communication skills are essential. Applicants must submit a writing sample that demonstrates their ability to convey information clearly and professionally. Preferred formats include a memo, standard operating procedure (SOP), project summary, manual or similar document that reflects the applicant’s ability to communicate technical or operational information effectively.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Strong leadership and strategic planning abilities with a proven track record of operational excellence.
Comprehensive knowledge of park planning, design, operations, maintenance, programming, and environmental best practices.
Familiarity with applicable federal, state, county, and city laws, codes, and regulations.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to engage effectively with diverse audiences, including staff, the public, community partners, and elected officials.
Analytical and problem‑solving skills with the ability to make data‑informed decisions.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams) and relevant management software.
NOTE Qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills must be documented on your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but only information stated on the application will be used for consideration. Resume will not be accepted for qualifications.
Education (Preferred)
Master’s degree in Parks and Recreation Management, Public Administration, Environmental Science, or a related field of study from an accredited college or university (preferred).
Experience (Preferred)
Experience with grant writing and administration (preferred).
Previous experience managing large‑scale park systems and capital improvement programs (preferred).
Certificate (Preferred)
Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) designation from National Recreation and Park Association (preferred).
Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) certification (preferred).
Affiliations with local, state, and/or national organizations that promote and share the state of the industry information and best practices supporting parks (preferred).
Position Type, Salary and Typical Hours of Work
Regular | Full‑time.
Location
P4 Headquarters located at 3131 Eastside St, Houston, TX 77098.
Work Environment and Physical Demands
This position requires a significant amount of time outdoors and exposure to a variety of environmental and extreme weather conditions. This position also requires traveling to parks located throughout the precinct and at long distances. The ability to work outdoors during all seasons and to drive safely is essential. The ability to operate standard office equipment and software platforms is required.
Essential functions involve significant physical demands related to repeated lifting of up to 50 pounds unassisted, 100 pounds with assistance rarely; carrying tools, materials, and equipment over rough terrain; climbing, reaching, and bending. Frequently to walk, sit, talk, drive, hear, bend, stoop, twist, and balance.
What You Will Get in Return You will be surrounded by team members who bring “heart, hustle, and higher standards” to work each day. These leaders advance opportunity and justice as they deliver services to and advocate for the residents of Harris County. The team you will be joining is innovative, dynamic, and forward‑looking.
Featured Benefits Harris County employees receive a competitive salary plus medical, dental, and vision insurance at no cost to the employee after the first two months of full‑time continued employment. Vacation, sick‑time, and floating holidays allow our employees to recharge and balance work and personal time. Mandatory participation in our retirement program allows employees to save for retirement. Various other benefits and discounts lead to the satisfaction and engagement of our employees.
HARRIS COUNTY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER https://hrrm.harriscountytx.gov/Pages/EqualEmploymentOpportunityPlan.aspx
If you need special services or accommodations, please call (713) 274-5445 or email ADACoordinator@bmd.hctx.net.
Employment is contingent upon passing a background check and drug screen.
Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.
#J-18808-Ljbffr