Parks, Recreation and Tourism Manager II - Park Project Manager

The City is seeking a dynamic Parks, Recreation, & Tourism Manager II - Project Manager to lead, plan, and execute a diverse range of park, recreational, and historical projects that enrich community spaces and preserve our local heritage. This role offers the unique opportunity to manage projects of all sizes-from renovations and repairs to new construction-ensuring each reflects the City's dedication to quality, sustainability, and public enjoyment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Project Leadership & Oversight: As the Parks, Recreation, & Tourism Manager II - Project Manager, you will lead the full project lifecycle including development, analysis, planning, design, implementation, and completion of park and facility projects. Coordinate closely with contractors, city staff, and community stakeholders to ensure successful outcomes.
• Facility & Asset Preservation: Assist in the preservation, documentation, and interpretation of historical assets, facilities, artifacts, and city inventory to maintain cultural and recreational value.
• Compliance & Quality Assurance: Oversee inspections and ensure projects adhere to all applicable codes, ordinances, specifications, and best practices at the local, state, and national levels. Maintain high standards of safety and environmental stewardship.
• Budget & Resource Management: Assist with preparation and administration of operating and capital budgets. Monitor expenditures, review invoices, and make cost-effective decisions to keep projects financially sound.
• Contractor Supervision: Manage contractor procurement, training, evaluation, daily activities, and payment processing. Ensure contractor performance aligns with project goals and standards.
• Strategic Planning: Develop and implement both short- and long-term strategies for park improvements, expansions, restorations, and enhancements, including technical interpretation of architectural, mechanical, and structural plans.
• Communication & Reporting: Prepare comprehensive reports, presentations, and documentation for executive leadership and public audiences. Address inquiries and build strong relationships with community groups, boards, and partner agencies.
• Grant & Regulatory Management: Research, apply for, and manage grant funding opportunities. Ensure compliance with regulatory inspections and grant-related documentation requirements.
• Project Monitoring & Documentation: Track ongoing projects including renovations, new construction, stormwater management, and archaeological activities. Ensure accurate recording and archiving of project progress and findings.
• Professional Development & Networking: Attend industry meetings, conferences, and workshops to stay current on best practices, emerging trends, and regulatory changes. Establish and maintain valuable local, state, and federal contacts.
• Other Duties: Perform additional responsibilities as assigned to support department goals and community priorities.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Proven experience managing complex park, recreation, or facility projects, including design, construction oversight, and budgeting.
• Knowledge of historical preservation practices, relevant codes, and environmental regulations.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings, blueprints, and contract specifications.
• Strong leadership skills to coordinate contractors, staff, and stakeholders effectively.
• Excellent communication skills for diverse audiences, including public presentations and formal reporting.
• Familiarity with grant application processes and regulatory compliance.
• Commitment to the City's CARES values and community engagement.

Why Join Us?

As the Parks, Recreation, & Tourism Manager II - Project Manager, you will play a crucial role in shaping the places where people gather, play, and connect with history. Your work will directly impact the community's quality of life by delivering safe, beautiful, and meaningful public spaces for today and tomorrow.

The City of Chesapeake offers an exceptional range of benefits.

Please browse our Benefits Brochure, for a full list of benefits and employee perks.

Required Qualifications

Vocational/Educational Requirement: Requires a bachelor's degree or any equivalent combination of education and experience in construction management, project management, planning, public administration, architecture, urban design or a closely related field.

Experience: In addition to satisfying the vocational/education standards, this class requires a minimum of 5 years of full-time equivalent experience in local government, project management, facility maintenance, construction, operations or a related industry.

Special Certifications and licenses: Requires a valid driver's license and a driving record that is in compliance with City Driving Standards.

Special Requirements: Employees may be expected to work hours in excess of their normally scheduled hours in response to short-term department needs and/or City-wide emergencies. Emergency operations support work and work locations may be outside of normal job duties.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in project management and supervision
• Knowledge of exceptional customer service
• Knowledge and experience in planning, design, construction, and project concepts
• Knowledge of park and recreational amenities and facilities
• Knowledge and experience in strategic planning and oversight of projects
• Experience in budget planning and administration