Assistant Director, Parks and Recreation

Job title: Assistant Director, Parks and Recreation

About the Role The Assistant Director within LA County Parks is an executive-level position requiring a visionary and experienced leader with a demonstrated commitment to advancing equity to lead, shape and innovate for the future of parks and recreation for residents and visitors of Los Angeles County. This role reports to the Chief Deputy Director and is a key member of the Executive Management Team, overseeing a broad portfolio of parks and recreation programs, staff, partnerships, and capital projects.

What You'll Do

• Lead and oversee operations, budgets, contracts, maintenance, safety, and construction support across parks and recreation programs.
• Steward a significant portfolio of programs, community and philanthropic partnerships, and a diverse staff; drive strategic initiatives and equity in programs and staffing.
• Navigate government relationships and systems; balance daily tasks with long-term planning; inspire and motivate a culturally diverse workforce.
• Act as a hands-on guide and problem-solver to implement innovative projects, manage staffing and resources, and ensure program quality and safety.
• Report to the Chief Deputy Director and contribute as a member of the Executive Management Team.

What We're Looking For

• Executive leadership experience overseeing parks/recreation operations, budgets, contracts, maintenance, construction support, and equity-focused program staffing.
• Visionary, collaborative, and innovative thinker with a track record of advancing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in programs and staffing.
• Ability to balance quick problem solving with strategic planning; adept at navigating government relationships, budgets, contracts, and construction management.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to lead, develop, and motivate a diverse workforce and engage with community stakeholders.
• Experience working in fast-paced government environments; adaptable to weather and regulatory changes; committed to equity and community needs.

Nice to Have

• Flexibility, creativity, emotional intelligence in leadership; DEI experience; experience partnering with campuses/partnerships and philanthropic initiatives would be a plus.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $153,000 - $237,000 per year.
• Benefits: details available in the brochure linked in the job posting.