Manager/Director of Park Management
Elachee is seeking an enthusiastic individual to serve as Manager/Director of Park Management for the Chicopee Woods Area Park. Under the direction of the Elachee President/CEO and in collaboration with the Chicopee Woods Area Park Commission, this individual will provide leadership and strategic direction for the operation, development, and maintenance of the Chicopee Woods Area Park, overseeing the management of identified park facilities, resources, and staff. This role requires collaboration with a wide range of stakeholders, including the Chicopee Woods Area Park Commission, Northeast Georgia SORBA (Southern Off-Road Bicycle Association), the University of North Georgia (UNG), and various governmental and community entities. The Director will be responsible for supporting the volunteer Elachee Trail Crew, overseeing parking and security services and other staff members, and ensuring effective and efficient day-to-day operations of the park, including the facilities associated with Elachee Nature Science Center.
Basic Information
- Full-time
- Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:00-4:00, with some after-hours and/or weekend work required
- Pay: The general pay range for this position is based on the role of either manager ($39,000-$45,000) or director ($42,000-55,000)
Typical Duties
- Supervise, guide, and support the Elachee volunteer Trail Crew and other park personnel, ensuring efficient operations and the safety of all team members.
- Serve as the primary liaison with the Chicopee Woods Area Park Commission, Northeast Georgia SORBA, UNG, local governments, and other community organizations.
- Build and maintain effective relationships with stakeholders to align park initiatives with broader community goals.
- Oversee daily park operations, including maintenance of trails, facilities, signage, and natural areas.
- Ensure that park activities and development align with environmental best practices and regulations.
- Develop and manage the park’s annual budget, ensuring responsible use of resources and efficient allocation of funds.
- Seek and apply for grants and funding opportunities to support park initiatives and improvements.
- Oversee procurement and management of vendors, materials and supplies necessary for park operations and staff activities.
- With the Elachee President/CEO, serve as the park’s spokesperson, communicating with the public, stakeholders, and media as needed.
- Prepare reports and updates for stakeholders, boards, and commissions, providing status updates on park operations and goals.
Eligibility
- Education: Degree in Park Management, Environmental Science, Outdoor Recreation, Public Administration, or a related field OR equivalent experience (degree not required)
- Experience:
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- Minimum of 5 years of experience in park management, natural resource management, business management, facility management or related fields, with at least 3 years of experience in a formal or informal leadership or managerial role
- Experience leading teams, supervising staff, and managing diverse stakeholders is required
- Experience managing both small and large-scale projects
- Skills:
- Strong leadership, team-building, and conflict-resolution skills.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with a wide variety of stakeholders, including Elachee employees and volunteers, government agencies, non-profits, and community organizations.
- Strong problem-solving abilities and the capacity to make decisions under pressure.
- Other Requirements:
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. as needed.
- Ability to walk, hike, or supervise field operations over uneven terrain and for extended distances.
- Ability to pass background check.
Additional Considerations
- Experience in trail building, trail maintenance general construction, or conservation projects such as stream restoration, habitat enhancement, and ecological initiatives will be considered but is not required.
- Familiarity with park-specific software and management tools, including Microsoft Office, QuickBooks Online, CRM software, and ArcGIS will be considered but is not required.
For consideration, please submit the following no later than the close of business on March 7, 2025 to sarah@elachee.org with the Subject Line Park Management Position: