Director of Parks & Recreation


Director of Parks & Recreation

Director of Parks & Recreation

City of Van Meter, Iowa

The City of Van Meter is seeking an enthusiastic, motivated, and community-oriented professional to serve as its next Parks & Recreation Director. This leadership position is responsible for planning, organizing, and directing the City's parks, recreation programs, trails, athletic facilities, and special events while overseeing park maintenance, capital improvement projects, budgeting, grant administration, and departmental operations.

The Director works closely with the City Administrator, Parks & Recreation Board, City Council, community organizations, volunteers, and residents to enhance the quality of life for the Van Meter community.

Essential Responsibilities

  • Lead the daily operations of the Parks & Recreation Department.
  • Oversee maintenance of parks, trails, athletic fields, shelters, and recreational facilities.
  • Plan and coordinate recreation programs, leagues, and community events.
  • Prepare and administer department budgets.
  • Research, write, and administer grants.
  • Develop and oversee park improvement and capital projects.
  • Supervise seasonal and part-time staff, volunteers, and contracted instructors.
  • Provide recommendations to the City Administrator, Parks & Recreation Board, and City Council.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Parks & Recreation, Public Administration, Natural Resources, Business Administration, or a closely related field (or an equivalent combination of education and experience).
  • Three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in parks and recreation, municipal government, park operations, or a related field.
  • Valid Iowa driver's license or the ability to obtain one within 30 days of employment.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Supervisory experience.
  • Experience with budgeting, grant writing, and capital improvement projects.
  • Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.


To see the full job description please view the link below: https://tinyurl.com/36trcjhc


Application for Employment: https://tinyurl.com/28kbdcdk


Email employment applications to info@vanmeteria.gov.
Applications will be accepted until Friday, July 31, 2026, with the first review of applications beginning on August 3, 2026.
Join us in making Van Meter an even better place to live, work, and play!


Additional Info

Job Type : Full-Time

Education Level : Bachelors Degree

Experience Level : Mid to Senior Level

Job Function : Administrative, Customer Service, General, Finance

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