The City of Keene is seeking an experienced and community-minded individual to lead our Parks and Recreation team.  Additional responsibilities include cemetery operations and a collaborative Youth Services division.  The Parks and Recreation Director will engage with the public, coworkers, elected officials, volunteers, and outside agency personnel. The City boasts a connective trail system, well-maintained and well-outfitted parks, and robust recreational programming.  The collaborative work environment across City departments provides plenty of opportunities to work on initiatives impacting the community across the organization.  Apply today to become a part of our amazing team!

Our Community
The City of Keene is an energetic community that provides services, programs, and resources for a much greater population than the residents of the City alone. Although the conveniences and attractions of large metropolitan areas are close at hand, the community maintains a solidly residential working-class character, complemented by a landscape of rural areas, farms, and open space. The heart of the community is its vibrant, yet historic, downtown core. In an age when many communities are losing their “sense of place,” Keene has a firm sense of its identity, built on a foundation of the past and a clear vision of the future.


Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
• Responsible for the management of a variety of recreation services and programs, active and passive recreational facilities, cemetery facilities and operations, and youth intervention and prevention programs.  Oversees the administration, program development and implementation, construction, and asset management for these service areas.
• Develops and implements the annual department budget.  Manages allocated and restricted funds.  Forecasts revenues related to restrict fund activities projecting funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials, and supplies while ensuring the sustainability of restricted fund programming.
• Develops relationships and collaborates with community partners to support recreational opportunities and community engagement that enhance the quality of life in the community.
• Serves as a member of the City’s senior leadership team alongside other department heads, city department employees, committees, and community members advancing programs, policies and opportunities supporting the City’s mission and values.
• Writes and administers local, state, and federal grants and coordinates the fundraising related to department-sponsored events and projects.  Seeks opportunities to develop diversified funding sources.
• Oversees the hiring and supervision practices of all department staff.  Develops and implements training programs to meet the requirements of the variety of the staff.
• Conducts regular staff meetings to review the progress, procedures and standards for the department staff and volunteers.
• Possesses knowledge of forestry, landscaping, environmental issues, cemetery issues, building construction, athletic facilities, and juvenile diversion.
• Ensures proper maintenance and security of all parks, cemeteries, and City parks and recreation facilities.


About the City of Keene
A friendly and vibrant college town with over 23,000 residents, Keene is a vital part of this southern New Hampshire area. As the hub of Cheshire County, the Keene community places a high value on environmental sustainability, locally sourced food and products, and historic preservation. You’ll find the best characteristics of small city living here, with a thriving downtown area which offers shopping, restaurants, the arts, farmer’s markets, a growing food co-op, festivals, events, and live theaters.  If you prefer to stay busy with outdoor recreation opportunities, there are many green areas, parks, ponds, and lakes in the area, as well as a vast trail system for biking, hiking, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.  With convenient access to Interstate 91, many popular ski areas are within close proximity as well. Keene is a welcoming area with something for everyone, including sports leagues for youth and adults (such as an adult softball league, rugby, and ice hockey).  We even have our very own collegiate baseball team, the Keene Swamp Bats, which we welcome to the area every summer!

The City offers a variety of public and private education opportunities for students in kindergarten – grade 12. We are also home to Keene State College, which is ranked by U.S News and World Report as a top regional college, as well as River Valley Community College, and a private graduate school, Antioch University of New England. Your healthcare needs will be covered by Cheshire Medical Center, which is part of the Dartmouth-Hitchcock Health system. Cheshire is the area’s largest health care provider and a leading employer, with numerous satellite locations.

The City offers a diverse economy which includes a spectrum of everything from family-owned companies to global industry leaders.  It is a great place to live, learn, work, and play for families and professionals!


Requirements include:
• Bachelor’s Degree in related field, Master’s degree preferred, plus seven to ten years of related experience, including five years in a supervisory capacity; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Parks and Recreation Professional or Executive Certification is preferred.
 
Salary and Benefits include:
• This position offers a salary of $101,060- $125,939 annualized and will also receive an attractive benefits package which includes low deductible/low-cost health insurance, low-cost dental insurance, State of NH Group I retirement, and other benefits such as life, disability, and paid time off!
• An environment where you can grow, be challenged, and learn from interesting and talented colleagues! 
• The opportunity to make a real difference in our community.
 
Ready to apply?
Apply now by visiting https://keenenh.gov/jobs.  As part of the application process, you are required to upload your resume and cover letter.  Confirmation that your application has been successfully submitted and received will be sent via email.
This position will be open until filled with the first review of applicants beginning on Monday, April 15, 2024.
 
Job Description: Parks and Recreation Director

THE CITY OF KEENE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.