City of San Bernardino
Director of Parks, Recreation, & Community Services (U)
City of San Bernardino, Riverside, California, United States, 92504
Shape the Future of Community Life in San Bernardino!
Are you a visionary leader ready to make a meaningful impact? The City of San Bernardino invites you to bring your passion, creativity, and executive experience to one of the most dynamic and community-focused departments in the region. Join our Executive Leadership Team and help lead a city where parks, recreation, and community services are more than amenities — they are essential pillars of connection, wellness, and civic pride.
As a future member of our team, you’ll be joining a city with deep roots, cultural diversity, and exciting momentum. Located in the heart of Southern California’s Inland Empire, San Bernardino is the county seat and largest city in San Bernardino County, home to more than 222,000 residents. Its rich history — shaped by Native American, Mexican, and Spanish influences — continues to inspire the city’s evolving identity. San
Bernardino offers access to major transit corridors, natural beauty, and a wid
e range of housing and lifestyle options. It’s a place where public service careers are supported by a strong sense of community and purpose — and where motivated professionals can grow, contribute, and be part of something meaningful.
The Parks, Recreation & Community Services Department is dedicated to building a stronger, healthier San Bernardino through inclusive programs, quality public spaces, and vibrant community experiences. The department is comprised of four core divisions:
Administration
provides department-wide support in personnel, technology, budgeting, customer service, and council relations, while overseeing agreements, contracts, commissions, and emergency preparedness.
Citywide Events
brings the community together through beloved events like Movies in the Park, Veterans Day Parade, Winter Wonderland, and Arts Fest — serving over 35,000 attendees annually.
Recreation
manages five community centers, five aquatic facilities, and a wide variety of youth and adult sports programs. It also oversees the Center for Individual Development (CID), which offers specialized services for individuals with developmental disabilities, as well as community gardens and regional aquatic facilities.
Community Services
is committed to enhancing the lives of seniors through two active senior centers, health and wellness programs, social events, and grant-funded services like the Senior Nutrition Program, Senior Companion Program, and RSVP volunteer network.
The department alsopartners in the preservation and management of the historic Pioneer Memorial Cemetery, a cultural landmark with over 17,000 burial sites. Together, these divisions ensure that residents of all ages have access to the programs, spaces, and services that support health, connection, and lifelong enjoyment.
The Director of Parks, Recreation & Community Services is a key member of the City’s Executive Leadership Team, reporting directly to the City Manager. This dynamic and highly visible role is responsible for the strategic oversight and day-to-day leadership of a full-service department that delivers high-quality parks, recreation, community services, and cultural programs.
The ideal candidate will be a forward-thinking and community-driven leader who is passionate about public service and equity. This role offers the opportunity to guide a talented team, manage citywide initiatives and events, develop innovative partnerships, and help shape a more vibrant, active, and inclusive San Bernardino.
STARTING SALARY WILL BE EVALUATED BASED ON EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE, AND INTERNAL EQUITY.
Challenges & Opportunities Ahead: The next Director of Parks, Recreation, & Community Services will take the helm at a critical moment in San Bernardino’s evolution. While the department is rich in potential—with a passionate team, diverse community, and strong cultural foundation—there are pressing challenges that require bold leadership, innovative thinking, and community-centered vision.
This is an exciting opportunity for a leader who is ready to take on complex issues, strengthen public trust, and champion equity and wellness across generations. Key opportunities and challenges include: Strategic Leadership:
Play a pivotal role in shaping the City's first-ever Parks Master Plan - translating community input into action while aligning with broader City goals.
Public Trust: Improve safety, cleanliness, and programming across parks and facilities to drive increased resident engagement and satisfaction.
Equity & Access : Close service and infrastructure gaps in historically underserved neighborhoods through inclusive design, targeted investment, and equitable programming.
Operational Excellence : Oversee efficient staffing, facility maintenance, and scheduling across seasons and sites, while navigating staffing shortages and aging infrastructure.
Community Engagement : Strengthen relationships with nonprofit partners, schools, and neighborhood groups to co-create meaningful programming and outreach.
Capital Improvement & Planning : Advance renovation and development projects that reflect the community’s vision while maximizing funding opportunities and cost-efficiency.
Youth & Senior Services : Expand access to youth development, senior wellness, and inclusive services that foster lifelong learning, health, and belonging.
Disaster Resilience : Position parks and facilities as essential components of emergency preparedness and community resilience efforts.
This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of community life in San Bernardino. The ideal candidate is a visionary who sees both the challenges and possibilities—and is ready to deliver lasting, positive impact for generations to come.
The Ideal Candidate: The ideal candidate for Director of Parks, Recreation & Community Services is a visionary and strategic leader who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment. They bring deep experience in parks, recreation, and community services—paired with strong fiscal acumen, political savvy, and a passion for creating inclusive, community-centered programs.
They are confident decision-makers and relationship-builders who excel at managing diverse teams, navigating complex challenges, and driving innovation. With strong communication skills and a proactive mindset, they work seamlessly with city leaders, stakeholders, and community members to deliver impactful services that enhance quality of life citywide. Key qualities include: Inspirational leadership and team-building skills
Strategic planning and policy development experience
Experience with capital project oversight and recreational facility management
Passion for equity, inclusion, and accessible programming
Ability to build and maintain partnerships with public, nonprofit, and community organizations
Strong understanding of public sector budgeting, contracts, and regulatory compliance
A Day in the Life Consists Of:
Leading a morning leadership meeting with division managers to review department priorities, community feedback, and upcoming initiatives
Collaborating with the City Manager and executive team on long-range planning, capital improvement projects, and policy development
Reviewing budget performance and funding strategies with administrative staff to ensure responsible stewardship of public resources
Representing the department at a stakeholder meeting or public forum to discuss upcoming events, programs, or park enhancements
Conducting a site visit to a park, senior center, or recreation facility to observe operations, connect with staff, and engage with the public
Preparing for or attending a City Council or Commission meeting to present reports, secure approvals, or provide updates on key initiatives
Engaging with community partners, nonprofit leaders, or regional agencies to strengthen collaborations and expand services
Ending the day reviewing strategic goals, staff development plans, and opportunities to further improve quality of life in San Bernardino
For more information on this position please
click here
to view the job description.
Education and Experience:
Bachelor’s degree in recreation administration, public administration, or a closely related field; and at least ten (10) years of progressively responsible parks and recreation management experience, at least five (5) of which were in a management capacity; or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
Licenses, Certifications, and Equipment:
Possession of a California State Driver’s License. May require a Class “C” or Class “B.”
Knowledge
of:
Principles and practices of administration, operation, protection, and management of a large parks and recreation department. Concepts, principles, and practices in recreational and leisure programming, development, implementation, and oversight. Federal, state, and local laws, regulations and court decisions applicable to assigned areas of responsibility. Principles and practices of public administration, including budgeting, purchasing, contract administration, and maintenance of public records. Research methods and analysis techniques. Organization, functions, legal requirements, operations, rules, and practices of the City Council. Sources of funding for meeting community services program needs. Principles and practices of sound business communication. Principles and practices of effective management and supervision. City human resources policies and procedures, Personnel Rules, and labor contract provisions. Uses and operations of computers and standard business software.
Skill in:
Planning, directing, managing, coordinating, and integrating the work of staff engaged in providing comprehensive city-wide parks, recreation, leisure, and community services programs and services. Defining complex management, fiscal, budget, and strategic planning issues, performing difficult analyses and research, evaluating alternatives, and developing sound conclusions and recommendations. Performing difficult analyses and research, evaluating alternatives, and developing sound conclusions and recommendations. Understanding, interpreting, explaining, and applying federal, state, and local policy, law, regulations, and court decisions applicable to areas of responsibility. Evaluating department programs and services and making changes or recommendations for improvement. Presenting proposals and recommendations clearly, logically, and persuasively in public meetings. Representing the City effectively in negotiations and other dealings on a variety of difficult, complex, sensitive, and confidential issues. Preparing clear, concise, and comprehensive correspondence, reports, studies and other written materials. Maintaining files, records, and documentation. Communicating clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing. Maintaining confidentiality of City documents and records. Exercising sound, expert independent judgment within general policy guidelines. Exercising tact and diplomacy in dealing with sensitive and complex issues and situations. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with City management, elected officials, labor organizations, other governmental officials, employees, applicants, complainants and others encountered in the course of work. Providing customer service.
Application Process To be considered for this opportunity, a detailed cover letter and resume must be attached to your application. The cover letter must include: Your interest in the position A summary of your relevant experience Any additional qualifications that make you a strong candidate Incomplete applications or those without a cover letter will not be considered.
Recruitment Timeline This recruitment will remain open until filled, or until a sufficient number of applications have been received. **First review of applications scheduled for the week of August 25, 2025; dates subject to change at the discretion Human Resources** All applicants are required to submit an online application through the City’s official website at www.sbcity.org.
This recruitment will remain open until filled or until a sufficient number of qualified applications have been received. Applications must be fully completed and clearly demonstrate that the minimum qualifications for the position are met. All information provided is subject to review, investigation, and verification. While resumes may be uploaded as supplemental documentation, they will not be accepted in place of a fully completed City application. Following the initial screening, the most qualified candidates whose backgrounds best match the needs of the City will be invited to continue in the selection process. Meeting the minimum qualifications does not guarantee advancement. Candidates will remain under consideration until a final selection is made and an offer is accepted. The City of San Bernardino reserves the right to close the recruitment at any time and may determine that none of the applicants, including those who meet the minimum qualifications, are suitable for the position. Successful candidates shall be required to: Pass a reference and background check including d egree verification and/or Credit Check .
References will not be contacted until mutual interest has been established. Pass a pre-employment medical exam, which may include a Tuberculosis (TB) Exam, and/or Drug screen. E-Verify Participation The City of San Bernardino participates in the E-Verify program. In compliance with federal law, all employers are required to verify the identity and employment eligibility of individuals hired to work in the United States. Accordingly, the City will provide information from each new employee’s Form I-9 to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Social Security Administration to confirm authorization to work in the United States. For more information about E-Verify, please visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website at
www.uscis.gov Disclaimers The City of San Bernardino is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. The City follows a nepotism policy, which may impact hiring decisions if an applicant has relatives currently employed by the City. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the City provides reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. Each request is evaluated on a case-by-case basis. To request an accommodation, please contact the Human Resources Department directly at (909) 384-5161. This bulletin is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract, expressed or implied. Its contents may be modified or withdrawn without prior notice. For questions regarding this recruitment, contact Human Resources at (909)384-5161. Additional information is available at www.sbcity.org.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
As a future member of our team, you’ll be joining a city with deep roots, cultural diversity, and exciting momentum. Located in the heart of Southern California’s Inland Empire, San Bernardino is the county seat and largest city in San Bernardino County, home to more than 222,000 residents. Its rich history — shaped by Native American, Mexican, and Spanish influences — continues to inspire the city’s evolving identity. San
Bernardino offers access to major transit corridors, natural beauty, and a wid
e range of housing and lifestyle options. It’s a place where public service careers are supported by a strong sense of community and purpose — and where motivated professionals can grow, contribute, and be part of something meaningful.
The Parks, Recreation & Community Services Department is dedicated to building a stronger, healthier San Bernardino through inclusive programs, quality public spaces, and vibrant community experiences. The department is comprised of four core divisions:
Administration
provides department-wide support in personnel, technology, budgeting, customer service, and council relations, while overseeing agreements, contracts, commissions, and emergency preparedness.
Citywide Events
brings the community together through beloved events like Movies in the Park, Veterans Day Parade, Winter Wonderland, and Arts Fest — serving over 35,000 attendees annually.
Recreation
manages five community centers, five aquatic facilities, and a wide variety of youth and adult sports programs. It also oversees the Center for Individual Development (CID), which offers specialized services for individuals with developmental disabilities, as well as community gardens and regional aquatic facilities.
Community Services
is committed to enhancing the lives of seniors through two active senior centers, health and wellness programs, social events, and grant-funded services like the Senior Nutrition Program, Senior Companion Program, and RSVP volunteer network.
The department alsopartners in the preservation and management of the historic Pioneer Memorial Cemetery, a cultural landmark with over 17,000 burial sites. Together, these divisions ensure that residents of all ages have access to the programs, spaces, and services that support health, connection, and lifelong enjoyment.
The Director of Parks, Recreation & Community Services is a key member of the City’s Executive Leadership Team, reporting directly to the City Manager. This dynamic and highly visible role is responsible for the strategic oversight and day-to-day leadership of a full-service department that delivers high-quality parks, recreation, community services, and cultural programs.
The ideal candidate will be a forward-thinking and community-driven leader who is passionate about public service and equity. This role offers the opportunity to guide a talented team, manage citywide initiatives and events, develop innovative partnerships, and help shape a more vibrant, active, and inclusive San Bernardino.
STARTING SALARY WILL BE EVALUATED BASED ON EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE, AND INTERNAL EQUITY.
Challenges & Opportunities Ahead: The next Director of Parks, Recreation, & Community Services will take the helm at a critical moment in San Bernardino’s evolution. While the department is rich in potential—with a passionate team, diverse community, and strong cultural foundation—there are pressing challenges that require bold leadership, innovative thinking, and community-centered vision.
This is an exciting opportunity for a leader who is ready to take on complex issues, strengthen public trust, and champion equity and wellness across generations. Key opportunities and challenges include: Strategic Leadership:
Play a pivotal role in shaping the City's first-ever Parks Master Plan - translating community input into action while aligning with broader City goals.
Public Trust: Improve safety, cleanliness, and programming across parks and facilities to drive increased resident engagement and satisfaction.
Equity & Access : Close service and infrastructure gaps in historically underserved neighborhoods through inclusive design, targeted investment, and equitable programming.
Operational Excellence : Oversee efficient staffing, facility maintenance, and scheduling across seasons and sites, while navigating staffing shortages and aging infrastructure.
Community Engagement : Strengthen relationships with nonprofit partners, schools, and neighborhood groups to co-create meaningful programming and outreach.
Capital Improvement & Planning : Advance renovation and development projects that reflect the community’s vision while maximizing funding opportunities and cost-efficiency.
Youth & Senior Services : Expand access to youth development, senior wellness, and inclusive services that foster lifelong learning, health, and belonging.
Disaster Resilience : Position parks and facilities as essential components of emergency preparedness and community resilience efforts.
This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of community life in San Bernardino. The ideal candidate is a visionary who sees both the challenges and possibilities—and is ready to deliver lasting, positive impact for generations to come.
The Ideal Candidate: The ideal candidate for Director of Parks, Recreation & Community Services is a visionary and strategic leader who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment. They bring deep experience in parks, recreation, and community services—paired with strong fiscal acumen, political savvy, and a passion for creating inclusive, community-centered programs.
They are confident decision-makers and relationship-builders who excel at managing diverse teams, navigating complex challenges, and driving innovation. With strong communication skills and a proactive mindset, they work seamlessly with city leaders, stakeholders, and community members to deliver impactful services that enhance quality of life citywide. Key qualities include: Inspirational leadership and team-building skills
Strategic planning and policy development experience
Experience with capital project oversight and recreational facility management
Passion for equity, inclusion, and accessible programming
Ability to build and maintain partnerships with public, nonprofit, and community organizations
Strong understanding of public sector budgeting, contracts, and regulatory compliance
A Day in the Life Consists Of:
Leading a morning leadership meeting with division managers to review department priorities, community feedback, and upcoming initiatives
Collaborating with the City Manager and executive team on long-range planning, capital improvement projects, and policy development
Reviewing budget performance and funding strategies with administrative staff to ensure responsible stewardship of public resources
Representing the department at a stakeholder meeting or public forum to discuss upcoming events, programs, or park enhancements
Conducting a site visit to a park, senior center, or recreation facility to observe operations, connect with staff, and engage with the public
Preparing for or attending a City Council or Commission meeting to present reports, secure approvals, or provide updates on key initiatives
Engaging with community partners, nonprofit leaders, or regional agencies to strengthen collaborations and expand services
Ending the day reviewing strategic goals, staff development plans, and opportunities to further improve quality of life in San Bernardino
For more information on this position please
click here
to view the job description.
Education and Experience:
Bachelor’s degree in recreation administration, public administration, or a closely related field; and at least ten (10) years of progressively responsible parks and recreation management experience, at least five (5) of which were in a management capacity; or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
Licenses, Certifications, and Equipment:
Possession of a California State Driver’s License. May require a Class “C” or Class “B.”
Knowledge
of:
Principles and practices of administration, operation, protection, and management of a large parks and recreation department. Concepts, principles, and practices in recreational and leisure programming, development, implementation, and oversight. Federal, state, and local laws, regulations and court decisions applicable to assigned areas of responsibility. Principles and practices of public administration, including budgeting, purchasing, contract administration, and maintenance of public records. Research methods and analysis techniques. Organization, functions, legal requirements, operations, rules, and practices of the City Council. Sources of funding for meeting community services program needs. Principles and practices of sound business communication. Principles and practices of effective management and supervision. City human resources policies and procedures, Personnel Rules, and labor contract provisions. Uses and operations of computers and standard business software.
Skill in:
Planning, directing, managing, coordinating, and integrating the work of staff engaged in providing comprehensive city-wide parks, recreation, leisure, and community services programs and services. Defining complex management, fiscal, budget, and strategic planning issues, performing difficult analyses and research, evaluating alternatives, and developing sound conclusions and recommendations. Performing difficult analyses and research, evaluating alternatives, and developing sound conclusions and recommendations. Understanding, interpreting, explaining, and applying federal, state, and local policy, law, regulations, and court decisions applicable to areas of responsibility. Evaluating department programs and services and making changes or recommendations for improvement. Presenting proposals and recommendations clearly, logically, and persuasively in public meetings. Representing the City effectively in negotiations and other dealings on a variety of difficult, complex, sensitive, and confidential issues. Preparing clear, concise, and comprehensive correspondence, reports, studies and other written materials. Maintaining files, records, and documentation. Communicating clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing. Maintaining confidentiality of City documents and records. Exercising sound, expert independent judgment within general policy guidelines. Exercising tact and diplomacy in dealing with sensitive and complex issues and situations. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with City management, elected officials, labor organizations, other governmental officials, employees, applicants, complainants and others encountered in the course of work. Providing customer service.
Application Process To be considered for this opportunity, a detailed cover letter and resume must be attached to your application. The cover letter must include: Your interest in the position A summary of your relevant experience Any additional qualifications that make you a strong candidate Incomplete applications or those without a cover letter will not be considered.
Recruitment Timeline This recruitment will remain open until filled, or until a sufficient number of applications have been received. **First review of applications scheduled for the week of August 25, 2025; dates subject to change at the discretion Human Resources** All applicants are required to submit an online application through the City’s official website at www.sbcity.org.
This recruitment will remain open until filled or until a sufficient number of qualified applications have been received. Applications must be fully completed and clearly demonstrate that the minimum qualifications for the position are met. All information provided is subject to review, investigation, and verification. While resumes may be uploaded as supplemental documentation, they will not be accepted in place of a fully completed City application. Following the initial screening, the most qualified candidates whose backgrounds best match the needs of the City will be invited to continue in the selection process. Meeting the minimum qualifications does not guarantee advancement. Candidates will remain under consideration until a final selection is made and an offer is accepted. The City of San Bernardino reserves the right to close the recruitment at any time and may determine that none of the applicants, including those who meet the minimum qualifications, are suitable for the position. Successful candidates shall be required to: Pass a reference and background check including d egree verification and/or Credit Check .
References will not be contacted until mutual interest has been established. Pass a pre-employment medical exam, which may include a Tuberculosis (TB) Exam, and/or Drug screen. E-Verify Participation The City of San Bernardino participates in the E-Verify program. In compliance with federal law, all employers are required to verify the identity and employment eligibility of individuals hired to work in the United States. Accordingly, the City will provide information from each new employee’s Form I-9 to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Social Security Administration to confirm authorization to work in the United States. For more information about E-Verify, please visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website at
www.uscis.gov Disclaimers The City of San Bernardino is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. The City follows a nepotism policy, which may impact hiring decisions if an applicant has relatives currently employed by the City. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the City provides reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. Each request is evaluated on a case-by-case basis. To request an accommodation, please contact the Human Resources Department directly at (909) 384-5161. This bulletin is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract, expressed or implied. Its contents may be modified or withdrawn without prior notice. For questions regarding this recruitment, contact Human Resources at (909)384-5161. Additional information is available at www.sbcity.org.
#J-18808-Ljbffr