Director, Office of Parks and Recreation - Middlesex County

Middlesex County Office of Parks and Recreation is seeking a dynamic, experienced professional to lead the County’s Parks and Recreation operations as the Director. The Middlesex County Park System encompasses over 11,000 acres of diverse parks, open spaces, conservation areas, and preserves. We are looking for a visionary leader with a passion for public service, environmental stewardship, and community engagement to oversee the management, development, and enhancement of our park system.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Administration & Leadership:

• Lead budgeting and financial planning for operating costs, capital improvements, and staff salaries.
• Supervise a diverse team, including full-time, seasonal, and part-time employees across various parks and recreation facilities.
• Oversee grant applications, management, and compliance with programs such as NJDEP Green Acres, National Park Service Federal Lands to Parks, and the American Battlefield Protection Program.
• Collaborate with labor unions and park staff associations to foster a positive work environment and maintain operational efficiency.

Park Maintenance & Development:

• Provide long-term planning and capital budgeting for the upkeep and development of 19 parks and recreational facilities spanning over 3,000 acres.
• Ensure high standards of maintenance, sustainability, and safety to serve over 500,000 annual visitors.

Recreation & Programming:

• Oversee the scheduling and coordination of recreational activities, including reservations, events, and community engagement.
• Direct programs such as theStephen J. Capestro Theatre (Broadway-caliber performances, children’s shows, and seasonal events), Roosevelt Park Skating Rink (year-round skating, roller-skating), and county-sponsored co-ed softball leagues.

Conservation & Open Space Stewardship:

• Manage over 8,500 acres of natural areas, conservation lands, and preserves.
• Lead volunteer and youth programs, such as theMiddlesex Conservation Corps, to support trail work, invasive species removal, and habitat restoration.
• Direct wetland restoration projects, manage the Deer Management Program, and collaborate with state and federal agencies for wildlife management and protection efforts.

Public Safety & Park Protection:

• Supervise theMiddlesex County Park Ranger Unit, which provides year-round public safety, event coordination, and protection across the park system.

Open Space Planning:

• Serve as Chair of theMiddlesex County Open Space Advisory Board, evaluating applications, recommending grants, and processing funding for municipal recreational projects.
• Lead the development and implementation of the Middlesex County Open Space and Recreation Plan, contributing to the County’s strategic vision for future park and open space development.

Qualifications:

Education and Experience:

• Nine (9) years of professional experience in parks and recreation planning, programming, administration, or maintenance, including at least five (5) years in a supervisory role. OR
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and five (5) years of supervisory experience in the above areas. OR
• Master’s degree in Recreation, Parks and Recreation Management, or a related field, with at least four (4) years of professional supervisory experience.
• Strong leadership and management capabilities with a focus on strategic planning, budgeting, and resource allocation.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in technology and software relevant to park management and administrative functions.
• Demonstrated ability to build partnerships and engage diverse stakeholders.

Why Middlesex County?

Join a forward-thinking, progressive community dedicated to environmental sustainability and enriching public life. As the Director of Parks and Recreation, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping the future of one of the most expansive and diverse park systems in the region. Lead a passionate and skilled team committed to preserving natural landscapes while creating dynamic recreational opportunities for residents of all ages. Middlesex County offers a unique opportunity to drive meaningful change, improve community well-being, and enhance the quality of life for over half a million people. This is your chance to lead innovative initiatives that balance conservation, recreation, and community engagement, while making a lasting impact on public spaces and regional growth.

Middlesex County is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.