Parks & Open Space Director

Job Description:

Parks & Open Space Director

Description

Job Posting Closes at 11:59PM on:
10/14/25
Division:
Open Space Division
Management Level:
Department Director
Scheduled Weekly Hours:
40
Benefit Eligibility:
This position is eligible for Standard Benefits which includes dental, medical, and vision insurance, paid time off and holidays, retirement matching, wellness programs, and tuition reimbursement.

Description:

Jefferson County is seeking a visionary and experienced leader to serve as the next Parks & Open Space Director. This is a unique opportunity to guide one of the top county parks and open space organizations in the nation that is dedicated to conserving natural areas, connecting communities, and providing exceptional visitor experiences and education programs.



KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide overall leadership for the department, including strategic planning, budgeting, and staffing .
  
• Direct the planning, acquisition, design, and development of open space facilities, parks, trails, natural and historic areas, ensuring compliance with county goals, policies, and standards.
  
• Develop and implement operating policies and procedures; research, draft, interpret, and recommend policy to county leadership.
  
• Represent the department to the County Manager, BCC, Advisory Committees, and other stakeholders; present issues, provide recommendations, and implement directives.
  
• Engage with special interest groups, community organizations, and advisory bodies to identify needs, address concerns, and guide land acquisitions and program development.
  
• Collaborate with county departments, municipalities, state and federal agencies, and citizen groups to advance open space and recreation initiatives.
  
• Represent Jefferson County at local, state, and national meetings, conferences, and professional forums.
  
• Provide strategic leadership to set the tone and direction for the department; oversee staff supervision, mentoring, and evaluation to support professional growth and team success while fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and belonging.
  

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Qualifications:

• Seven (7) years of public parks and open space experience
  
• Bachelor’s Degree in park administration, natural resource management, or closely related field
  

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ten ( 10 ) years of progressively responsible experience within a public parks and open space or land conservation environment
  
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in a supervisory capacity, including leadership of professional staff
  
• Master’s Degree in park administration , natural resource management , public administration , or closely related field
  
• Certified Park & Recreation Executive (CPRE)
  

TOTAL COMPENSATION PACKAGE

Hiring Salary Range: $180,000 to $210,000

Total Compensation Package is outlined in the Brochure (see below).

Learn more about our options and employee-based benefits here .

APPLICATION & SELECTION PROCESS :

To be considered for this position, submit your letter and resume online at www.jeffco.us/jobs

Applications will be accepted electronically through www.jeffco.us/jobs . Applicants complete a brief online form and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume.

Inquiries may be directed to jfairwea@jeffco.us

Download Recruitment Brochure



Additional Job Information:

• A valid Colorado driver’s license is required for positions that drive on County Business in either a county or personal vehicle shall have a Colorado Driver’s license within 30-days of hire or beginning to serve as an intern or volunteer.
  
• Offer of employment is contingent upon successful completion of criminal history, motor vehicle report, education verification, and/or references.
  
• In any materials you submit , you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.
  

Education:

Experience:
Work Experience: Minimum seven years

Certifications:

Languages:

Category:
Department Heads