Job Description

Posting number: 202600177

Department: Parks & Recreation

Division: NATURAL RESOURCES

Job classification: Natural Resources Manager

Posting type: Open & Promotional

Categories: Parks, Natural Resources

Under the direction of the Director of Parks and Recreation, or designee, the Natural Resources Manager is responsible for managing, supervising and coordinating the programs, activities, maintenance and operations of the Natural Resources Division within the Parks and Recreation department. This includes oversight of nature-based education, conservation initiatives, and the planning, activation, and day-to-day operations of the City’s Nature Center and related facilities. The position ensures high-quality visitor experiences through innovative programming, effective facility management, and stewardship of natural assets.

The intent of this position description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbent(s) in this position. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties in this description and incumbent(s) may be required to perform position-related tasks other than those specifically listed in this description.

Examples of duties

Essential Job Functions:

• Develops, implements, and evaluates a comprehensive portfolio of nature-based educational, interpretive, and recreational programs aligned with the mission of the Nature Center.
• Assumes management responsibility for assigned services and activities, including educational programming, Nature Center operations, and natural areas land management; ensures alignment between programming, facilities, and goals.
• Supervises staff, which includes prioritizing and assigning work; conducting performance evaluations; ensuring staff is trained; ensuring employees follow policies and procedures; maintaining a healthy and safe working environment; and, making hiring, termination, and disciplinary decisions or recommendations.
• Assumes management responsibility for assigned services and activities, including educational and recreational programs; and supervises programs and facilities related to natural areas land management.
• Manages and participates in the development and implementation of goals, objectives, policies and priorities for assigned programs. Recommends and administers policies and procedures.
• Monitors and evaluates the quality, responsiveness, efficiency and effectiveness of the Nature programs, maintenance, service delivery methods and procedures; and works with employees on the continuous improvement of city services.
• Assists in formulating department policies and operating functions.
• Prepares grant applications and pursues grant funding.
• Supports active, on-going public relations program to obtain community input and support for divisional
  programs and services.
• Coordinates gathering and analysis of area resource data and develops short- and long-range nature plans. Investigates and reviews proposals for new activities, services and facilities. Promotes eco-tourism.
• Supervises facility planning and construction, and nature park development.
• Maintains close working relationships with community, state and federal organizations and other special interest groups.
• Serves as staff liaison to designated City Advisory Boards and non-profit community support organizations.
• Identifies potential sensitive land acquisitions, works closely with staff, City and other officials in the acquisition process.
  

Other Important Duties:

• May be required to attend City events and meetings.
• May be required to work extended hours, evenings and weekend.
• Participates in local, regional, and national organizations focused on natural resources and environmental programs.
• Attends and participates in meetings, conferences, special events and training held by professional associations both locally and statewide.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.
• Regular and consistent attendance for the assigned work hours is essential.

Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Thorough knowledge of principles, practices, methods and theories of natural resource management.
• Thorough knowledge of laws, ordinances, regulations and statutes which govern natural management functions.
• Thorough knowledge of principles and practices of effective administration and supervision.
• Knowledge of grant sources and application procedures.
• Ability to prepare reports.
• Ability to develop long-term plans and evaluate work accomplishments.
• Ability to administer and manage a city-wide program of nature activities.
• Proficiency in the use of computers and related equipment, hardware and software applicable to area of assignment, specifically Microsoft Word, Power Point, Publisher, Access and Excel, as well as the most current Creative Suite from Adobe including Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator.
  Knowledge of City management policies and procedures.
• Skill in effective English oral and written communication and public speaking.
• Skill in effective Spanish oral and written communication skills a plus.

Education, Experience, and Certifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in biological science or related field, supplemented by coursework in administration, public relations, or administration of environmental or nature programs or wildlife management and four (4) years of experience in public administration or management, or an equivalent combination of education and experience that support the ability to perform the essential functions and/or skills of the
  job.
• Experience in nature center operations, programming, or public-facing facility management preferred.
• Must pass a pre-employment drug screen, criminal background check, and MVR check.
• Must possess a valid State of Texas Driver's License.
• National Recreation and Parks Association certification as a Certified Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP) is required within 12 months of hire date.
  
  

Supplemental information

Environmental Factors and Conditions:

• Work is performed in office and recreation facility environment.

Physical Demands:

• This work typically requires the following physical activities to be performed. A complete description of the activities below is available upon request from Human Resources.