Parks, Recreation & Libraries Assistant Director

THE POSITION

The City of Avondale has an opportunity for a Parks, Recreation & Libraries Assistant Director in the Parks, Recreation & Libraries Department. This is a FLSA exempt, full-time position with benefits. Assists the Parks, Recreation, and Libraries Assistant Director with the management and oversight of assigned staff. Organizes, plans, directs, manages and evaluates the functions of assigned divisions within the Parks, Recreation & Libraries Department, comprised of the Recreation Division, Grounds Maintenance/Parks Division, Aquatics Division, and Public Libraries Division. Performs highly responsible, complex managerial support, executive-level assistance and policy analysis to the department director on operational and departmental issues. Assists in formulating and implementing department policies, makes recommendations on operational and managerial problems, long-range plans and programs. Performs related work as required or assigned.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES/DUTIES

Develops and manages assigned divisions of the Department by overseeing year-round recreation programs, library services, coordinating design, construction and maintenance of parks, department-wide contractual services, and ensuring long and short-range plans are implemented. Develops management plans for the implementation of facility and park operations, and recreation and library programming practices and procedures. Oversees preparation of division budgets by coordinating projects, procuring supplies and services, recommending long and short-term goals and objectives, assuring projects and work plans align with budgets, and supervising all programs and activities to ensure they are within budgets. Promotes excellent customer service skills and high-quality program development. Administers protocols and develops strategies to measure success. Directs, supervises, motivates and evaluates staff. Resolves complex or sensitive issues related to employees, citizen issues/complaints, and department operations. Serves as departmental liaison for various committees. Develops and provides high quality public presentations to senior management, community groups and political entities. Provide support to Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. Performs periodic inspections of parks, recreation, aquatic and historical facilities to ensure safety, and compliance with department-approved guidelines. Researches, analyzes, and prepares reports on parks, recreation and library program and project status, revenue, expenditures, attendance and accomplishments for city management, community organizations, and the general public. Provides support to Public Art Program, Public Arts Commission, and ensure regular updates to the Public Art Master Plan. Participates in the development, implementation, evaluation and enforcement of department policies, procedures, and standards. Interprets, explains, and enforces federal, state, county and city laws, rules and regulations. Provides input on parks capital improvement program as it relates to new park development, redevelopment, equipment replacement and improvements, trail development, and public open space areas.

THE LOCATION

Avondale, AZ, is a vibrant city located in the heart of the Phoenix metropolitan area. Known for its friendly community and beautiful parks, Avondale offers a high quality of life with a population of 87,931. The city provides a wide range of recreational facilities, cultural attractions, and community events, making it an ideal place to live and work.

Housing Costs:
The median home price in Avondale, as of May 2024, is approximately $350,000.

Renting Costs:
The median rent for an apartment in Avondale, AZ, is about $1,600 per month.

Childcare Costs:
The average cost of full-time daycare for an infant in Avondale, AZ, is around $1,200 per month.