PARK MANAGER

Park Manager

Req:                 52952

Position #:      22092619

Salary:             $83,969

Grade:             SGS11

Location:         Planning and Development, Little Rock, AR

Closing date:  Open Until Filled

The Park Manager is responsible for assisting Planning & Development Manager with overseeing the planning, design, and development of state parks, outdoor recreation areas, and public lands across Arkansas. This position provides leadership and technical expertise to a team within Planning & Development, ensuring projects align with environmental sustainability, accessibility, and recreational needs. The Park Manager works closely with state officials, engineers, architects, landscape architects, and community stakeholders to develop and implement master plans, conduct feasibility studies, and manage large-scale park improvement projects.

Job Duties: Lead and manage a team, assigning projects and ensuring adherence to deadlines and policies. Oversee the development of master plans, park layouts, and recreational facility designs. Review and approve design plans, maps, and environmental assessments to ensure compliance with regulations. Coordinate with engineers, architects, and contractors to develop sustainable, accessible, and visitor-friendly park designs. Lead efforts to integrate green infrastructure, conservation practices, and ADA accessibility into park designs. Manage large-scale park development and improvement projects, ensuring alignment with state priorities and budgets. Oversee feasibility studies, cost estimates, and environmental impact assessments for proposed projects. Monitor project progress and resolve issues related to land use, permitting, and infrastructure development. Collaborate with state agencies, municipalities, tourism boards, and conservation organizations on park initiatives. Conduct public outreach and engagement efforts to gather community input and support for park projects. Identify and secure grants, funding sources, and partnerships for park development projects. Oversee budget planning and financial management related to park initiatives. Ensure compliance with state and federal funding requirements. Ensure park designs adhere to best practices in environmental conservation and land management. Work with natural resource specialists to develop strategies for habitat protection and ecological sustainability.

KAS: Ability to lead, train, and mentor a team of employees. Experience in budget management, procurement, and financial oversight. Strong leadership and supervisory skills to effectively manage a team. Knowledge of architecture, engineering, landscape architecture, urban planning, and outdoor recreation facility design. Experience with land use analysis, GIS mapping, and environmental sustainability practices. Familiarity with state and federal regulations related to outdoor recreation and park development. Strong ability to oversee multiple projects, manage timelines, and allocate resources efficiently. Analytical skills to assess site conditions, visitor needs, and infrastructure challenges. Detail-oriented approach to budgeting, feasibility assessments, and contract management. Excellent verbal and written communication skills for engaging stakeholders and presenting plans. Ability to work effectively with government agencies, contractors, and community groups. Strong public speaking and negotiation skills for public meetings, grant proposals, and policy discussions. Ability to develop unique and functional outdoor spaces that balance recreation with conservation.

Minimum Qualifications: At least three years of experience in park management, environmental conservation, recreation administration, or a related field, including one year in a leadership capacity.

This position offers a full benefit package including paid holidays, annual and sick leave, health insurance, and retirement pension.

Applications accepted online only: https://arcareers.arkansas.gov

Please visit us on the web at https://adpht.arkansas.gov to find out more about us.

The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism has three major divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism. Arkansas State Parks manages 52 state parks and promotes Arkansas as a tourist destination for people around the country. Arkansas Heritage preserves and promotes Arkansas’s natural and cultural history and heritage through four historic museums and four cultural preservation agencies. Arkansas Tourism improves the state’s economy by generating travel and enhancing the image of the state.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.