Wheaton Park District, Director of Parks and Planning - Illinois City / County Management Association (ILCMA) : Job Details

The Wheaton Park District (WPD) was established by the citizens of Wheaton in 1921 and has a rich history of elevating the quality of community life through its parks, facilities, programs and services. Today, citizens enjoy active and passive parks owned and leased by the district across fifty-four (54) sites totaling nearly 900 acres. Recreational facilities owned and/or operated by the District include the Ray Morrill Community Center, Parks Plus Fitness Center, Central Athletic Complex, Northside Park Family Aquatic Center, Rice Pool and Water Park, Arrowhead Golf Club, Lincoln Marsh Natural Area, Memorial Park Leisure Center and Bandshell, Clock Tower Commons Mini Golf Course and Skate Park, Cosley Zoo, and DuPage County Historical Museum. The Wheaton Park District is a recognized leader in the delivery of parks and recreation services in Illinois and is a four-time winner of the NRPA Gold Medal Award for excellence in the field of park and recreation management.

The Wheaton Park District is seeking an experienced and visionary Director of Parks and Planning to lead and manage the planning, development, maintenance and long-term strategic direction of the community's parks, open spaces, recreational facilities, fleet, and related capital projects.

This is a key leadership position responsible for ensuring the preservation, enhancement, and equitable development of our parks and facilities while aligning with community values and environmental sustainability.

The Director of Parks and Planning reports to Michael Benard, Executive Director. The Director of Parks and Planning frequently collaborates as a member of the Park District Senior Leadership Team. The Director of Parks and Planning has six (6) direct reports including Superintendents of Planning, Facilities and Maintenance, Trades and Events, Fleet Services, Forestry Grounds and Sports fields and an Administrative Services Manager.

Qualified candidates will have a bachelor's degree in park management, public administration, civil engineering, landscape architecture, construction management or related field. Master's degree preferred. A minimum of ten (10) years of successful and progressive related work experience in park operations, facility operations, public works or related field. Certification as a Park & Recreation Professional or Executive or related professional certifications preferred. Working knowledge and experience in construction management and capital project coordination. Trades experience preferred. Strong computer literacy. Must maintain a valid driver's license.

The Wheaton Park District offers highly competitive compensation that is commensurate with a candidate's prior experience and accomplishments. The Salary range for this position is $106,489 – $159,733. The District has a very comprehensive and attractive benefits package. Benefits include, but are not limited to: Health (HMO or PPO), with very low employee contribution for employee, spouse, and dependents. Health Insurance incentive up to $4,500 per year. Pension Plan through the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund, including employer contributions. Paid time off, life insurance paid for by employer, facility privileges that include free golf, fitness center, access to two pools and many more.

The Wheaton Park District is an equal opportunity employer. EOE/M/F/D/V