Parks and Natural Resources Operations Manager

Must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation. Essential functions and job-related requirements, including physical and cognitive demands, are described below.  This job description outlines the general scope of duties and responsibilities and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all tasks that may be assigned.

MAJOR FUNCTION:

Professional, managerial, and administrative work providing direct support to the Division Director with significant responsibility for overseeing and coordinating division-wide operations, personnel, and project implementation. This position exercises a high level of independent judgment in managing operational activities, advancing capital and construction projects, and ensuring alignment with strategic priorities.
Work involves leading operational coordination across multiple program areas, overseeing project management systems and tracking, supporting construction and capital improvement initiatives, and supervising staff and resources to ensure efficient, effective, and accountable service delivery. The position serves as a key member of the division’s leadership team, driving performance, operational excellence, and continuous improvement.

ILLUSTRATIVE DUTIES:

•    Provides direct leadership support to the Division Director and exercises delegated authority in managing division operations, personnel, and projects.
•    Overseas and coordinates day-to-day operations across all program areas, ensuring consistency, efficiency, and alignment with division goals and County policies.
•    Leads development, implementation, and oversight of project management tracking systems for operational and capital projects.
•    Monitors and reports on project schedules, budgets, milestones, and performance outcomes to ensure timely and successful project delivery.
•    Coordinates and supports planning, design, and construction of capital improvement projects, including parks, facilities, infrastructure, and natural resource initiatives.
•    Works closely with internal departments, contractors, consultants, and regulatory agencies to advance construction and development projects.
•    Reviews project scopes, schedules, and budgets to ensure alignment with operational needs and strategic priorities.
•    Provides oversight of operational budgets, including monitoring expenditures, forecasting needs, and identifying cost efficiencies.
•    Supervises, coordinates, and evaluates assigned staff, including program managers, supervisors, or administrative personnel as designated.
•    Assists with workforce planning, staff development, and performance management to support a high-performing organization.
•    Develops, implements, and enforces operational policies, procedures, and standards across the division.
•    Supports procurement activities, contract administration, and vendor management for operational and capital projects.
•    Coordinates cross-functional efforts between programs, divisions, and County departments to ensure collaboration and effective service delivery.
•    Assists in the development and execution of division strategic plans, operational goals, and performance metrics.
•    Prepares executive-level reports, presentations, and briefings for leadership and Board-related activities.
•    Supports emergency response, disaster recovery, and continuity of operations planning and implementation.
•    Identifies and implements process improvements, innovations, and best practices to enhance operational efficiency and service quality.
•    Acts on behalf of the Division Director as assigned, including representing the division in meetings and interdepartmental initiatives.
•    Performs related duties as required

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS:

Knowledge of:

•    Principles and practices of public administration, organizational management, and governmental operations
•    Project management methodologies, including capital project planning and construction oversight
•    Budget development, financial management, and resource allocation
•    Procurement, contract administration, and vendor management processes
•    Parks and recreation, natural resource management, and environmental program operations
•    Strategic planning, performance measurement, and operational analytics.

Ability to:

•    Lead and coordinate complex operations across multiple functional areas
•    Manage and track multiple projects, including capital and construction initiatives, simultaneously
•    Supervise, motivate, and evaluate staff while fostering a collaborative work environment
•    Analyze operational and financial data to support decision-making and continuous improvement
•    Communicate effectively with leadership, staff, contractors, and external stakeholders
•    Develop and implement policies, procedures, and operational standards
•    Exercise sound judgment and decision-making with a high degree of independence.

Skills in:

•    Project management and construction coordination
•    Operational leadership and personnel management
•    Budget tracking, forecasting, and financial analysis
•    Process improvement and workflow optimization
•    Data analysis, reporting, and presentation development
•    Communication and cross-functional collaboration

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

•    Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Public Administration, Business Administration, Parks and Recreation Management, Engineering, Construction Management, Environmental Science, or related field.
•    Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in operations management, project management, construction coordination, or public administration, including at least two (2) years in a supervisory or leadership role.
•    An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge, abilities, and skills.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENT:

•    You must possess a valid Florida Driver’s License at time of hire.
•    Ability to work evenings, weekends, or holidays as required for operational needs, construction activities, or emergency response.

All employees will be required to work before, during, or after an emergency. During an emergency, employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its residents.