Director of Parks & Recreation

Town of Preston   Preston , CT   Full-time     Other
Posted on April 2, 2024

Town of Preston, Connecticut (Pop 4,788)

Director of Parks & Recreation

We Invite Candidates to Apply

for the Director of Parks & Recreation Position

 

The Town of Preston is located in New London County in the southeastern region of Connecticut. This semi-rural town is 31.3 squares miles in area, with commercial activity centered on a few small retail centers along the major roads. Preston has successfully retained the small-town charm that is missing from most modern suburbs, including keeping its working farms and plentiful open space. 

 

The local government has been actively involved in projects to enhance the quality of life for the citizens, that share the commitment to the future.  This includes the plan for the large Preston Riverwalk Project planned for across the Thames River from Mohegan Sun.  This development will be a non-gaming destination and is planned to include outdoor and indoor attractions, and recreation opportunities, hotel and retail space, restaurants, housing, a marina, RV Park and more. See full Profile for more information about this and other projects.

 

The First Selectwoman is the Chief Elected and Chief Administrative Officer of the Town. She works with the Board of Selectmen to develop policy direction and approve the budget that is then sent to the Board of Finance and finally to the Town Citizens. The First Selectwoman appoints the Director of Parks & Recreation.

 

The Director of Parks and Recreation performs professional, management and administrative work in planning and implementing all adult and youth recreation programs. This position is responsible for the execution of policies and procedures, and the supervision of staff including scheduling and training for all parks and recreation programs. It ensures proper maintenance of P&R facilities. The position evaluates the needs of the various populations it serves and seeks out new ideas and methods to provide the appropriate services. Supervises the Recreation Office Assistant, Park Maintainers, Summer Camp Directors & Counselors, Program Instructors, Basketball Referees, Volunteers.

 Qualifications:

The qualifications required would generally be a Bachelor’s degree in recreation, physical education or a related area. A minimum of 5 years’ relevant experience is required, preferably in a municipality, with 2-3 years of supervisory experience, and/ or any equivalent combination of education, training, and work experience.

 

Special Requirements:

  • Must have and maintain: Valid CT Driver’s License
  • CPR/First Aid Certification
  • Certified Parks & Recreation Professional (CPRP) preferred

 

Compensation and Application Process

The Town of Preston offers a competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience (Range $32.98 to $41.22/hour). The Town provides a generous benefits package which includes health insurance with only 6% employee contribution for employee and family, dental and life insurance, vacation and sick leave as part of Paid Time Off. Additionally, the Town provides a defined benefit pension plan through the State of Connecticut known as MERS

 If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact Ms. Randi Frank (Contact information below). If you have more questions about the position and salary, please contact Ms. Frank. To apply now please submit your cover letter and resume to Ms. Frank. The position will remain open until filled; the first screening date is April 26, 2024.

 Ms. Randi Frank, Randi Frank Consulting, randi@randifrank.com  www.randifrank.com 203-213-3722