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Parks & Recreation Manager

City of San Antonio

City of San Antonio

San Antonio, TX, USA
Posted on Jan 7, 2026

Job Summary

Under general direction, is responsible for managing the daily operations and activities of an assigned Division. Responsibilities may include the design and planning or maintenance and operation of parks, natural areas, recreation centers, swimming pools, playgrounds and facilities throughout the City dependent on area of assignment. Exercises direct and functional supervision over assigned staff.

This position is an "unclassified" position and has no disciplinary appeal rights to the Municipal Civil Service Commission. This position is likewise subject to at-will employment status and can be terminated at any time for any reason.

Work Location
Ron Darner Headquarters - 5800 Enrique M Barrera Parkway San Antonio, TX 78227

Work Hours
7:45 a.m.4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday;

Essential Job Functions

  • Develops, implements and monitors overall administrative and operational programs.
  • Meets the department and City goals for management of parks and facilities.
  • Supervises, trains and evaluates assigned staff, occasionally lifting and carrying recreation equipment weighing 10-15 pounds to demonstrate proper techniques.
  • Develops and monitors division budget.
  • May oversee construction projects.
  • Establishes short and long-range departmental priorities, goals and objectives.
  • Directs staff in the development and administration of programs and services; evaluates program services.
  • May assist in preparation of grant applications and the acquisition of alternative funding sources.
  • Serves as liaison to the community, neighborhood organizations, public and/or private agencies to include responding to citizen inquiries and complaints.
  • Oversees field and office studies relative to the further development of existing areas and the possible development of proposed areas.
  • Oversees independent studies and statistical analysis on park developments.
  • Performs related duties and fulfills responsibilities as required.

Job Requirements

  • Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university.
  • Seven (7) years management experience.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience leading large operational teams and implementing change management practices and innovative approaches to managing public green spaces.
  • Dynamic communicator with the ability to interface with all levels of staff and manage stakeholder relationships.
  • Able to deliver first class customer service and handle special projects.
  • Knowledge of operational characteristics, programs, and services across a large urban park system.

Applicant Information

  • Unless otherwise stated, applicants are permitted to substitute two years of related full-time experience for one year of higher education or one year of related higher education for two years of experience in order to meet the minimum requirements of the job. One year of full-time experience is defined as 30 or more hours worked per week for 12 months. One year of higher education is defined as 30 credit hours completed at an accredited college or university.
  • Applicants selected for employment with the City of San Antonio in this position must receive satisfactory results from pre-employment drug testing and background checks. If required for the position, a physical, motor vehicle record evaluation, and additional background checks may be conducted.
  • Please be advised that if selected for this position, information regarding employment history as it relates to the qualifications of the position will be needed for employment verification. Applicants claiming military service to meet the experience requirement for this position may attach a DD214 to the application.
  • If selected for this position, official transcripts, diplomas, certifications, and licenses must be submitted at the time of processing. Unofficial transcripts and copies of other relevant documents may be attached to the application for consideration in advance.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Knowledge of recreation, maintenance and operations and/or park design and construction programs.
  • Knowledge of fiscal, management, and administrative principles and practices.
  • Knowledge of principles and practices of supervision, training, and personnel management.
  • Knowledge of applicable Federal, State, and local laws and ordinances.
  • Skill in utilizing a personal computer and associated software programs.
  • Ability to communicate clearly and effectively.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with City staff and the general public.
  • Ability to learn unique city administrative directives and policies.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with diverse groups of individuals utilizing tact and diplomacy.
  • Ability to perform all the physical requirements of the position, with or without accommodations.
  • Working conditions are inside and outside with occasional exposure to temperature variations, damp/wet surfaces, hazardous materials, flammable liquids, high noise areas, insects, insect bites, dust and unfavorable fumes and vapors.