Description

The City of Grosse Pointe Woods, MI, is a suburban community of more than 16,000 residents located in the northeast corner of Wayne County. We are seeking a collaborative leader to become our next Parks and Recreation Director. 

The Parks and Recreation Director is responsible for all park facilities; recreation programs; and special events for the City. The position reports to the City Manager.

Requirements

The Parks and Recreation Director oversees the operation of five parks, three full-time staff, and all part-time and seasonal staff within the department. Park facilities include a 225-slip marina; pickleball courts; baseball diamonds; soccer fields; ice hockey rink; tennis courts; picnic areas and shelters; Activity Building; Community Center; and playscapes. The Director is also responsible for budgets; reports; purchasing; buildings; grounds; and construction activities. The Director provides oversight for all adult and youth recreation programs; swim and synchronized swimming teams; and special events. Duties require availability on weekends and some evening hours.

In addition, the Director oversees our world-class Aquatic Facility with dual water slides, wading pool, diving pool, lap lanes, and Splash Pad. This requires current or prior certification in Lifeguarding; Lifeguard Instructor certification is also desirable. Certified Pool Operator (CPO) or Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO) or the ability to obtain certification within six months is preferred. Experience in recruiting; training; scheduling; and supervising lifeguards and all aquatic staff is preferred.

There are physical demands that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  

- The Director must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

- Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus. 

- Sit, stand, walk, and move about for periods necessary to perform the essential duties. Walk over and inspect a variety of surfaces, including pavement, sidewalks, grass, athletic fields, gravel, trails, and other uneven terrain.

- Navigate stairs and access City facilities and recreational areas as necessary to perform inspections and oversight responsibilities.

- Bend, reach, and occasionally kneel when conducting inspections or evaluating facilities and equipment.

- Occasionally lift, carry, push, or pull materials or equipment as necessary to perform assigned duties within the physical requirements reasonably associated with the position.

- Work outdoors for periods of time and be exposed to varying weather conditions.

- Communicate effectively, including the ability to hear and speak sufficiently to perform supervisory, administrative, and public-facing responsibilities.

The position requires a bachelor’s degree in Parks and Recreation Administration or a related field with at least five years of progressively responsible management experience in municipal parks and recreation. The successful candidate will work effectively with the City Manager, other Department Heads, City Council, Boards and Commissions, and the public. Preferred skills include working in a multifaceted parks and recreation system; pool and park maintenance experience; ability to provide leadership and execution for park improvements; and recreation programs and special events. The ideal candidate will be a dynamic and enthusiastic individual who is committed to improving the City’s parks system, recreation programming, and improving service to the public.

Candidates should have knowledge and experience in the use of office equipment and technology including computers and recreation software (i.e., Civic Plus and Sling). Applicants must be able to pass a criminal background check and possess a valid Michigan driver’s license.

Salary range of $65,000 to $76,500 DOQ/E including an excellent benefit package. Candidates should apply by 5 p.m. on September 25, 2026, with cover letter; resume; three professional references; completed Privacy Release; and completed City of Grosse Pointe Woods Application for Employment. Submit all documents to: Susan Como, City Manager; 20025 Mack Plaza Dr., Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236; or email: scomo@gpwmi.us

This search is conducted by an Equal Opportunity Employer.