About the Department
Pierce County Parks and Recreation manages over 5,200 acres of open space, trails, developed and undeveloped parks.  We provide recreational programs and infrastructure in active and passive parks and trails. The department consists of three divisions:  Parks and Recreation, Administration and Resource Stewardship. Our mission is to be a leader in creating livable communities by providing opportunities for people to connect with nature, learn about sustainable practices, live healthy lifestyles, and enjoy vibrant community spaces.

Nature of the work
The Park Specialist position in the Parks & Recreation Division is responsible for oversight and execution of maintenance  plans for Spanaway Park and several small parks within the Central region.  This is an working supervisor position responsible for scheduling, planning, organizing and overseeing the performance and safety of staff which may include Extra-Hires.

As a condition of employment, the applicant will need to authorize and complete a background check. Information received from the background check is reviewed case-by-case and will not necessarily remove an applicant from consideration.

Core Strategic Responsibilities:

• Develop, schedule, monitor and evaluate work plans and programs.
• Assist supervisor in budget planning, preparation and implementation.
• Demonstrate proficiency utilizing an automated Work Order system to schedule and document work performed.

Why It’s a Great Opportunity: 
This Park Specialist is a working supervisory position that manages 5 FTE and multiple Extra Hire’s throughout the year. This position oversees the operations of a large regional park as well as multiple small “neighborhood” type parks with the following amenities; picnic shelters, playgrounds, trails, undeveloped park areas. This person will work with a group of dedicated staff who strive to provide the best services to the citizens of Pierce County.

Core Daily Responsibilities:

• Identify maintenance deficiencies, manage and update the work order system.
• Plan, organize, schedule, oversee, perform, and supervise all aspects of the parks, public grounds, and/or facilities that support programs and services. Develop the work plan and schedule resources to meet daily, weekly, and monthly operational needs.
• Supervise staff and schedule training opportunities.
• Determine work procedures, prepare work schedules and determine methods for expediting workflow; assign, review and approve the work of subordinate staff. Make recommendations to improve work flow and increase productivity.
• Investigate, respond to and resolve public complaints and inquiries.

• Four or more years of maintenance/grounds experience related to one or more of the following areas: parks, facilities, trails or open space.
• Supervisory and/or lead experience is required,
• OR any equivalent combination of experience and education is required.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Possession of or ability to obtain a CPR/First Aid Certification.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS AND/OR QUALIFICATIONS:

• Employees may be subject to 24-hour on call availability.
• Evening and weekend work may be required.
• Ability to successfully complete all required background investigations.
• A valid Washington State driver’s license is required or the ability to otherwise meet the travel requirements of the position.
• Ability to be able obtain a pesticide applicator license within 6 months of employment.
• Satisfactory physical condition, as evidenced by a County-approved physical examination, may be required prior to the appointment.

To be considered for this opportunity please:

• Complete and submit an online Pierce County Employment Application by selecting “APPLY” above or go to:   www.piercecountywa.org/jobs.
• If you do not have internet access, you may visit your local public library or any WorkSource location and use their computers.
• Individuals needing accommodation in the application, testing process or need this job announcement in an alternative format may call Human Resources at (253) 798-7480, at least two days prior to the need.

This is a competitive selection process.  Your application form will be reviewed and evaluated for the quality and quantity of education/experience in the areas listed.  Applicants whose qualifications most closely correspond to the County’s needs will be eligible for further consideration.  Notification of application status normally occurs 4 to 6 weeks after the closing date.  Short notice may be given to applicants to participate in further selection processes which may include written, oral and performance examinations, and final interviews.

As an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, Pierce County welcomes a diverse workforce.  Pierce County does not discriminate based on race, creed, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, age, disability, veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal by a disabled person.

At Pierce County, diversity, equity, and inclusion means commitment, not a single step. We strive to foster an inclusive environment that supports equitable access to opportunities throughout your career. We want to recruit, develop, and maintain a talented workforce from various backgrounds, cultures, lifestyles, and perspectives, committed to our vision.  Employees of the County have local, direct, and visible impact in our diverse community. Will you join us in keeping Pierce County a great place to live, work, and raise a family?