Position Purpose:
The purpose of this position is to perform supervisory and administrative work in planning, organizing, directing, and supervising the Parks and Recreation Department. The Deputy Commissioner of Public Works – Recreation is responsible for maintaining and improving upon the efficiency and effectiveness of all areas under his/her direction and control. Supervision Scope: Performs varied and highly responsible work requiring the exercise of significant leadership, independent judgment and initiative in the planning, administration, and execution of the park & recreation department’s services to meet community needs. Supervision Received: Works under the administrative direction of the Commissioner of Public Works, independently formulating decisions regarding policies, procedures, operations and department plans, and assuming responsibility for department results. Works according to established department and Town policies and procedures, standards, special directives, instructions and intent. The position is subject to review and evaluation according to the Town's personnel policies. Supervision Given: Has supervisory responsibility directly and through subordinates for all department part-time, full-time, and seasonal employees. Recommends hiring of staff, provides daily direction to the department, prepares employee performance evaluations, and counsels and disciplines staff consistent with Town policies and the collective bargaining agreement. Job Environment; Some of the work is performed outdoors, subject to variable weather conditions, administrative work is performed under typical office conditions. Frequently required to work outside of normal business hours; may be required to work on weekends, may be contacted at home at any time to respond to important situations and emergencies. Often operates light trucks/automobiles, computer and other standard office machines. Makes frequent contacts with the general public, other Town departments/boards/committees, regional and state governmental agencies, vendors and contractors. Contacts require a high level of persuasiveness and resourcefulness to influence the behavior of others. Contacts are in person, in writing, and by telephone and require discussing managerial, administrative, and technical matters. Has access to all department-oriented confidential information including personnel records and bid proposals. Errors in judgment and administration may have far reaching effects on the Town's ability to deliver services and may result in lower standards of service, sub-standard construction and inadequate maintenance programs with consequent danger to public safety; errors in supervisory and financial decisions could have legal and financial repercussions.
Essential Functions:
The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.
Plans, directs, and budgets the variety of programs in the areas of parks, recreation, special events and activities for the Department of Public Works. Prepares departmental operating and capital budgets; Administers and approvals of all expenditures, including payroll, accounts payables, departmental equipment and supplies. Coordinates efforts with the Commissioner of Public Works and other Town boards/committees. Supervises the overall administration and direction of parks and recreation operations, including the maintenance of parks and recreational equipment, vehicles and facilities; some degree of tree maintenance and removal; snow and ice removal. Seeks state and federal grants as required. Recruits, selects, assigns, trains, evaluates and disciplines seasonal staff; Develops work schedule and assignments for all department employees; establishes a time frame for projects and ensures timely completion of tasks and projects; reviews the quality of work performed and ensures that work complies with standards, Plans the utilization of staff and equipment in accordance with work schedules; orders materials and supplies; works closely with contractors to assure the proper fulfillment of the contracts. Represents the department at a variety of different meetings both within and outside of the Town system. Responds to complaints; concerns, and questions from the public and other Town departments. Attends seminars on a variety of department-related subjects. Regular attendance and punctuality at the workplace are required. Must be enrolled in the Town's Drug and Alcohol program required by the Department of Transportation. Performs similar or related work as required, directed as situation dictates.
Recommended Minimum Qualifications:
Education, Training and Experience:
A)Possession of a Bachelor’s degree in parks and/or recreation administration or a closely related field and five years of experience implementing parks and recreational programs and activities, two of which included supervisory responsibilities; OR
B)Possession of an Associate’s degree in parks and/or recreation administration or a closely related field and seven years of experience implementing parks and recreational programs and activities, two of which included supervisory responsibility; OR
C)Graduation from high school or possession of an equivalency diploma and nine years of experience implementing parks and recreational programs and activities, two of which included supervisory responsibilities; OR
D)An equivalent combination of training and experience as defined by the limits of A), B), and C) above.
NOTE: Experience in implementing recreational programs and activities may be substituted for the educational requirement with two years of experience being equivalent to one year of education.
Special Requirements:
Possession of the appropriate level Motor Vehicle Operator’s License.
Knowledge, Ability and Skill:
Knowledge:
Comprehensive technical and practical knowledge of the materials, methods and techniques relative to: Principles and practices of park and recreation management and administration. Knowledge of the equipment, facilities, and personnel necessary to carry out park and recreation programs and special events. Knowledge of the principles and practices of supervision, interviewing and selection of employees. Knowledge of software used for scheduling programs, leagues and financial reports.
Ability:
Ability to effectively supervise, organize and coordinate the daily work schedule for personnel. Ability to plan, coordinate, organize and implement programs and events. Ability to establish and maintain effective and harmonious working relationships with Town officials and departments, state/federal agencies and the general public. Ability to communicate effectively in written and oral form. Ability to prepare and administer budgets, prepare financial reports, and prepare grants.
Skill:
Skill in all of the above-listed tools and equipment. Excellent planning and organization.
Physical Requirements:
Spends the majority of the day standing and/or walking. Occasionally lifts and/or moves objects weighing up to 50 pounds such as equipment, supplies, etc. Must be able to access all levels of a construction site, traverse uneven terrain, climb a ladder, and enter into / exit from vehicles and equipment. Manually operate office equipment. Communicate verbally and in writing; (This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee. It is used as a guide for personnel actions and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.)
Minimum Starting Salary- $60,000 / negotiable based on experience
Potential Starting Date- August 2026
Please submit Resume & Application no later than 08/14/2026:
An employment application must be completed by all individuals interested in applying for a position. Applications are available at the Town of Union Office Building or may be downloaded from the Town's website using the link below.
https://www.townofunionny.gov/services/human_resources/applications_forms.php
Completed applications and supporting documents may be submitted by email to [email protected] or mailed to:
Town of Union Personnel Office
3111 East Main Street
Endwell, NY 13760
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $60,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
Experience:
- Parks and/or Recreation Administration: 5 years (Required)
- Management: 2 years (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Endwell, NY 13760 (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
