Parks Superintendent-Operations

Parks Superintendent-Operations

Salary

$100,276.80 - $134,388.80 Annually

Location

San Luis Obispo, CA

Job Type

Permanent - Salary

Job Number

1026PM-001251-01

Department

Parks & Recreation

Division

22202 Community Parks

Opening Date

10/11/2026

Closing Date

10/25/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

About the Position

The San Luis Obispo County Parks & Recreation Department is actively recruiting for a Parks Superintendent!

The Parks Superintendent plans, organizes, and directs the comprehensive operations, maintenance, and public use within the San Luis Obispo County Parks & Recreation Department. This role provides critical leadership over a diverse, county-wide system spanning community parks, regional parks, major recreational lakes, coastal beaches, open space preserves, multi-use trail networks, and commercial concessionaire operations. The Superintendent leads and coordinates a ranger team of over 30 full-time field staff, seasonal temporary workers, and dedicated volunteers to ensure safe, sustainable, high-quality recreational opportunities that meet the needs of SLO County residents

and visitors alike.

Click Here For the full job description of Parks Superintendent.

Click Here To learn more about the San Luis Obispo County Parks and Recreation Department.

This recruitment may be used to fill future permanent, substitute, limited term, and temporary positions, both full-time and part-time throughout the County.

The Ideal Candidate

Typical Tasks and Representative Duties

(Not in order of importance)

• Plan, organize and direct either the operations and programs of the County Parks Division or the operations and activities involved in the maintenance of County parks and designated grounds and landscaped areas; assure related functions and County parks comply with established laws, codes, ordinances, regulations, policies and procedures.
• Coordinate and direct assigned staff, communications and/or resources to meet community and County needs and assure smooth and efficient activities; assure proper and timely resolution of related issues, inquires, problems and discrepancies.
• Train, supervise and evaluate the performance of assigned staff; interview and select employees and recommend transfers, reassignment, termination and disciplinary actions; assign duties and review work to assure compliance with established guidelines and procedures; develop and monitor training and employee development programs; ensure compliance with Division, County, State and Federal regulations, policies and procedures.
• Participate in the planning, design, development and implementation of construction, alteration and installation projects for the County Parks Division; inspect and provide recommendations concerning new and existing construction projects and related plans and specifications or assist with contract negotiations for construction projects as directed.
• Assist in the development and preparation of the annual preliminary Parks budget; review and evaluate budgetary and financial data; control and authorize expenditures in accordance with established limitations.
• Serve as a technical resource to County Parks Division staff concerning parks, playgrounds and grounds maintenance operations, pesticide application, projects and activities; respond to inquiries and provide detailed and technical information regarding related laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures.
• Prepare and maintain a variety of reports, records and files; coordinate the development and preparation of the annual preliminary budget for grounds maintenance functions; review and analyze budgetary and financial data; control and authorize expenditures in accordance with established limitations.
• May plan, organize and direct the development and implementation of a variety of park programs and services including recreational activities, enforcement functions, phone reservations and cashiering systems; coordinate park ranger activities to prevent illegal or improper use of parks.
• May manage the development and implementation of revenue-generating park and recreational operations, programs and projects; direct related marketing and promotion functions; organize and direct concessionary functions at County parks to maximize profitability; submit, implement and manage grant programs including financial reporting responsibilities to State and Federal agencies; manage operations for financial effectiveness and operational efficiency.
• May inspect, monitor and evaluate pest control operations and playground structures to assure compliance with established State and Federal Regulations and maintain required program documentation; review and provide advice concerning the implementation of plant selection and irrigation systems.

Distinguishing Characteristics

This is the management level class in the County's Parks Division and is distinguished from the Deputy Director-County Parks in that the Deputy Director-County Parks is responsible for managing and directing all aspects of the County's Parks and Golf facilities. This class is distinguished from the lower-level Supervising Park Ranger in that the Supervising Park Ranger is the first-line supervisor of the unit.

Employment Standards

Knowledge of:

• Practices, procedures, standards and techniques used in the management of the assigned area of the County Parks Division

Applicable County, State and Federal codes, ordinances, requirements, regulations and safety precautions as pertain to assigned area

• Proper methods, materials, tools and terminology used in grounds and facility maintenance and repair
• Principles of public administration, accounting, planning and marketing
• Requirements of maintaining County parks, pools, grounds and landscaped areas in a safe and healthy condition
• Techniques, standards and procedures involved in the development and implementation of concessionary activities and other revenue-generating functions
• Basic budget preparation and control
• Oral and written communication skills
• Principles and practices of supervision and training
• Interpersonal skills using tact, patience and courtesy

Consumer Product Safety Commission and ASTM guidelines for safe playgrounds

• County, State and Federal laws and regulations pertaining to pesticide application, written recommendations and safe applications
• Current computer applications and office equipment
• Operate standard office equipment, and computer applications
• First Aid and CPR procedures

Ability to:

• Plan, organize and direct operations and activities involved in the maintenance or operations of County parks, pools and designated grounds
• Direct personnel, communications and information to meet County needs and assure smooth and efficient activities

Supervise, train and evaluate the performance of assigned personnel

• Inspect projects for completeness and compliance with established requirements and procedures
• Participate in the design, development and implementation of construction, alteration and installation projects for County parks, grounds and landscaped areas
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing
• Interpret, apply and explain rules, regulations, policies and procedures
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work
• Operate a computer and assigned office equipment
• Direct the maintenance of a variety of reports, records and files related to assigned activities
• Work independently and maintain safe and productive work environment
• Plan, implement and monitor State and Federally-mandated safety programs
• Learn First Aid, CPR and use of Automated External Defibrillator (AED)
• Prepare comprehensive narrative and statistical reports
• Make presentations before government bodies and public organizations

Education and Experience

A combination of education, training, and experience resulting in the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. An example of qualifying education and experience includes:

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Recreation or Park Administration, Natural Resources Management, Park Planning or a closely related field. In addition, four years of experience developing, implementing and evaluating operational and recreational programs at a regional park, preferably with emphasis on day-use or camp-oriented service programs (one year of such experience being in a supervisory position).Licenses and Certificates

Certain positions within this classification may require driving. When driving is an essential function of the position, a valid CALIFORNIA driver license will be required at the time of appointment and must be maintained throughout employment.

Must obtain and maintain valid Red Cross First Aid, CPR and AED certificates or their equivalent within six months from date of appointment.

Must obtain and maintain a California Qualified Applicator Certificate - Landscape Maintenance (B) and Right of Ways (C) within one year of appointment.

When determined to be a requirement of the position, the following must be acquired within one year of appointment: A Pest Control Advisor License (categories A - insects and E - weeds minimum) as issued by the California Department of Food and Agriculture; a Certified Playground Safety Inspector certification as issued by the National Parks and Recreation Society, National Playground Safety Institute may be required.

All required licenses and certificates must be maintained throughout employment.

Other Conditions of Employment:

Employees in this classification may be required to work holidays, weekends and evenings.

Special Subclass Recruitment:

Recruitment for Parks Superintendent operations and maintenance positions are conducted according to the specific assignment within the Parks Division in which a vacancy exists and the special requirements for each position.

This class specification generally describes the duties and responsibilities characteristic of the

position(s) within this class. The duties of a particular position within a multi-position class may vary from the duties of other positions within the class. Accordingly, the essential functions of a particular position (whether it be a multi-position class or a single-position class) will be identified and used by medical examiners and hiring authorities in the selection process. If you have any questions regarding the duties or the working conditions of the position, please contact the Personnel Department at (805) 781-5959.

How to Apply

Applications, including answers to supplemental questions, must be submitted online by the final filing date. To apply for this position, click "apply" at the top of this page. Most County recruitments require you to respond to supplemental questions as part of the application process. We recommend that you review these questions prior to beginning your application.

An initial application review will be conducted. Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications and are best qualified will be invited to participate in selection activities which may include online assessments, performance exams, written exams, and interviews.

Final candidates will be required to have an in-depth background review performed before proceeding in the process. Please note that references will not be contacted until the end of the process.

If you have questions or would like to discuss the opportunity further, please contact Human Resources at hr@co.slo.ca.us. Confidential inquiries are welcomed.

For further information regarding the County of San Luis Obispo, visit our website at www.slocounty.ca.gov.

Reasonable Accommodation Notice

Federal law requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. Please tell us if you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job or to perform your job. Examples of reasonable accommodation include making a change to the application process or work procedures, providing documents in an alternate format, using a sign language interpreter, or using specialized equipment. Please call 805-781-5959 for assistance or e-mail hr@co.slo.ca.us for more information.

Veterans Preference Points

If you are applying for employment with the County of San Luis Obispo and you served in the United States Armed Forces, you may be eligible for veterans preference points as part of the recruitment process. Some dependents and survivors of eligible veterans may also be eligible for preference points. Click here for more information and to learn how to apply for this benefit. Please note that Veteran's credits must be on file with the County of San Luis Obispo Veterans Services Office prior to the recruitment closing date indicated on the job announcement.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The County is an equal opportunity employer. Objectives are directed toward assuring equal opportunity in selection / promotion, pay, and job assignments. Recruitment and selection procedures have been established to ensure non-discrimination on the basis of political or religious opinions or affiliations, age, sex, race, color, national origin, marital status, disability, sexual orientation or other non-merit factors. In addition, the County complies with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act in hiring and retaining employees. For more information contact the Human Resources Department at (805)781-5959.

Make a Difference

Employees of the County of San Luis Obispo are public servants who impact the lives of our community every day. From supporting efforts to reduce homelessness, keeping our drinking water clean, or serving the families in need in the community, County employees make a difference.

Compensation and Benefits

Your annual salary is supplemented by a generous benefit package.

In general, temporary employees are not eligible for County-sponsored benefits and may have limited benefit options available to them. For more information on benefit eligibility, please e-mail hr@co.slo.ca.us.

For additional information regarding the benefits listed that may be available to you, visit the associated Benefits-At-A-Glance webpage (click here for link).

Some benefits include:

• Medical (PPO, EPO, HDHP), Dental (HMO, PPO) and Vision Insurance
• Health enhancing programs such as Hinge Health, GIThrive and Carrum Health for medical enrollees.
• Cafeteria (County contribution to pay for insurance premiums)
• Free visits to the employee health clinic
• Mental Health resources/benefits including Headspace
• Voluntary insurance plans (life insurance, disability, critical illness and many more)
• A lifelong retirement benefit through the San Luis Obispo County Pension Trust
• Optional deferred compensation plan with up to $500 per year match (depending on bargaining unit)
• Tax savings accounts (medical and dependent care)
• Paid personal, sick and vacation days
• 12 paid holidays
• Employee Assistance Program
• Education and Wellness Allowance
• Post Employment Health Plan
• Family Friendly workplace policies
• Flexible work schedule options
• Rideshare commuter benefits
• Pet Insurance

The County of San Luis Obispo has been recognized as a Diamond Level Family Friendly Workplace by San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce. We support our employees through: childcare assistance, flexible scheduling practices, paid and unpaid leave, comprehensive health benefits, flexible spending accounts, and employee assistance programs.

Pension Benefit and Employee Contribution Rates:

The Countys pension is a defined benefit plan that provides a guaranteed monthly pension payment for life based on your time in service, wages, and other factors. The County is the primary contributor to the pension fund, but the health of the pension fund also depends on mandatory employee contributions. Employees are required to pay a percentage of their base pay towards the pension fund, ranging from 5% to 19%. This amount is deducted from your paycheck pre-tax every pay period. To find out how much will be deducted from your paycheck should you be hired for this position, please contact Pension Trust at (805) 781-5465.

Healthcare Benefits and Cafeteria Contributions:

The County offers comprehensive medical coverage to you and your family, along with two dental plan options and vision coverage. All permanent employees receive a monthly employer contribution (or 'cafeteria' contribution) to help them pay for their portion of the medical, dental, and vision insurance premiums. The amount of the cafeteria contribution varies by Bargaining Unit (BU) and the extent to which employees enroll their dependents. If the cafeteria amount is greater than your selected premiums, the remainder of the cafeteria is paid out to you in your paycheck as taxable income. If the cafeteria amount is less than your monthly premiums, you pay the remainder of the premiums with pre-tax wages.

To estimate your out-of-pocket costs (or cashback from extra cafeteria), visit the Cafeteria Rates webpage (click here for link).

Learning and Development

The County prioritizes your learning, personal and professional development, and career growth. Employees have access to over 1500 on-demand courses, instructor led courses, and job-specific trainings.

Employees can take courses to upskill to make themselves more competitive for promotional opportunities and further their career growth. Examples of courses include:

• Emotional Intelligence
• Supervisor/Manager academies
• Microsoft Suite courses
• Defensive Driving
• Financial management
• Retirement preparedness
• Teambuilding
• Written Communication
• Conflict Management
• Clifton StrengthsFinder and DISC
• Job specific conferences/trainings

Student Loan Forgiveness

Did you know that if you are employed by a government agency you may be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program

County employees also have access to GotZoom, a program that offers tools and support to navigate your federal student loans.

Homebuyer assistance program

Employees have access to the "Assist-to-Own" program sponsored by Golden State Finance Authority (click here for link to more information) to get a loan for the down payment.

01

The minimum qualifications for this position include a combination of education, training, and experience resulting in the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. An example of qualifying education and experience includes: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Recreation or Park Administration, Natural Resources Management, Park Planning or a closely related field. In addition, four years of experience developing, implementing and evaluating operational and recreational programs at a regional park, preferably with emphasis on day-use or camp-oriented service programs (one year of such experience being in a supervisory position). Please describe in detail how your training and experience qualify you for this position.

02

This department is currently transitioning to its first-ever formal ERP and asset management system, which will significantly alter daily workflows for park rangers and field staff. Describe a time when you had to implement a major technological or operational change with a resistant or technologically hesitant workforce. How did you secure their buy-in and ensure successful adoption?

03

Parks is navigating a significant leadership shift, moving toward a new strategic direction, and looking to actively implement our new master plan. You will be leading a diverse team of over 30 permanent staff and hundreds of temporary workers and volunteers spread across a large county. Walk us through how you establish a new strategic direction and rally the team around these changes without overwhelming them. Specifically, how do you balance driving this new vision with rebuilding trust and morale, and how do you stay connected to field operations rather than getting stuck behind a desk?

04

Like many public agencies, Parks is facing serious budget and revenue challenges. Beyond simply cutting costs, what experience do you have with creative revenue generation, grant acquisition, or public-private partnerships within a parks and recreation context? Can you share an example of how you successfully managed or optimized a tight budget?

05

Managing facilities and staff scattered across a large geographic region can create silos and communication gaps. How do you maintain operational consistency, safety standards, and team cohesion when you cannot be everywhere at once? How do you empower supervisors to make sound decisions on the ground?

06

Parks is a public facing organization, balancing the demands of constituents, community groups, and elected county officials. Can you give an example of a politically sensitive situation you've handled where stakeholder interests conflicted with operational realities or budget limits? How did you keep everyone informed and aligned? What was the outcome and did you view it as a success?

Required Question

Employer County of San Luis Obispo

Address 1055 Monterey Street

Suite D-250

San Luis Obispo, California, 93408

Phone 805-781-5959

Website http://www.slocounty.ca.gov/