The City of Bowie, Maryland is actively seeking a dedicated and experienced Parks and Grounds Superintendent to manage its expansive Parks and Grounds Division. This role involves the supervision of complex maintenance operations across 765 acres of parkland, 130 acres of athletic fields, and extensive rights-of-way and street trees, ensuring they meet the highest standards of safety and aesthetics. The Superintendent, reporting to the Department of Community Services Director, will oversee a budget of $4,779,400 and supervise 36.2 full-time employees. Additionally, the Superintendent will be responsible for managing snow and storm responses, as well as the citywide leaf collection program. Ideal candidates will hold an Associate degree in a relevant field, possess seven years of progressive experience, and have a proven track record in parks and grounds maintenance, with preferred qualifications including certifications such as CPRP and ISA Certified Arborist. This position offers a competitive salary, robust employee benefits, and the opportunity to contribute to the vibrant and family-friendly community of Bowie. Applications must be submitted via the city’s website by June 14, 2024. Have you ever considered a career that revolves around the natural beauty of parks and recreation facilities? Does the idea of managing vast acres of greenery and ensuring they maintain their allure excite you? If so, then the role of Superintendent for the Parks & Grounds Division with the City of Bowie might just be the perfect fit for you.
Superintendent, Parks & Grounds Division Job with City of Bowie
The City of Bowie, Maryland, has an outstanding opportunity for an experienced and dedicated professional to oversee its Parks and Grounds Division. As Superintendent, the individual will play a pivotal role in maintaining one of the region’s most beautiful and expansive park systems. This prestigious position offers not only a rewarding professional challenge but also a chance to significantly impact the community’s quality of life.
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About the City of Bowie
The City of Bowie is a vibrant community known for its beautiful parks and recreational facilities, cultural diversity, thriving local economy, and convenient location near the Nation’s Capital. It boasts safe neighborhoods, a family-friendly atmosphere, and a responsive local government, making it a highly desirable place for both living and working.
Position Overview
The Parks and Grounds Superintendent reports directly to the Department of Community Services Director and is responsible for overseeing the comprehensive maintenance of a large park district. This includes:
- Management of Athletic Fields: Ensuring the upkeep of 130 acres of athletic fields, facilitating a safe and enjoyable sporting experience.
- Playgrounds and Open Spaces: Maintenance of playgrounds, open spaces, and picnic sites to provide clean, safe, and enjoyable environments for residents.
- City Street Trees: Management of 18,500 street trees, which involves participating in the citywide leaf collection program and responding to storm damage.
- Snow and Storm Response: Managing snow and storm response procedures at City facilities, including plowing and salting operations.
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Parks and Grounds Highlights
To provide a sense of scope and scale, here are some of the key statistics related to the Parks and Grounds Division:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Total grass maintained | 248 acres |
| Rights-of-way maintained | 32 acres |
| Total parkland | 765 acres |
| Athletic fields maintained | 130 acres |
| Trails maintained | 39 miles |
| Street trees under purview | 18,500 |
| Annuals planted each year | 10,800 |
| Curb miles of leaf collection | 415 |
Key Responsibilities
The responsibilities of the Parks and Grounds Superintendent are both diverse and complex. They include:
- Supervising Operations: Overseeing a team of 36.2 full-time equivalents (FTE) to ensure the highest maintenance standards.
- Budget Management: Handling a budget of $4,779,400, ensuring the judicious allocation of funds.
- Equipment Maintenance: Ensuring that all equipment is well-maintained through an in-house maintenance garage.
- Contractor Performance: Managing and monitoring the performance of contractors involved in maintenance activities.
Minimum Qualifications
To qualify for this esteemed position, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Educational Background: An associate degree in Parks and Recreation Management, Horticulture, Landscape Architecture, or a related field.
- Experience: A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in parks and grounds maintenance, with at least two years in a supervisory capacity.
- Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and maintenance management software.
- Certification: A Public Agency Applicators Certificate with specific endorsements (3a B Turf; 3C B Ornamentals; Area 6 B Right of Way) to be completed within one year of employment.
Preferred Qualifications
While the minimum qualifications are essential, preferred candidates would also possess:
- Professional Certification: A Certified Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP) credential.
- Arboriculture Expertise: An International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist or similar certification.
- Sports Turf Management: Certification as a Sports Turf Manager.
- Budget and Project Management: Demonstrated experience with budget management and capital improvement projects.
- Municipal Government Experience: Prior experience working within a municipal government setting.
- Tree Care Expertise: Extensive expertise in tree care and maintenance, including arboriculture.
Salary and Benefits
The salary for the Superintendent position ranges between $78,000 and $92,000, depending on qualifications. In addition to a competitive salary, the City of Bowie offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Medical Insurance: Excellent medical coverage.
- Dental and Vision Insurance: Comprehensive dental and vision plans.
- Life and Long-Term Care Insurance: Life insurance and long-term care coverage.
- Retirement Plans: Access to 401(k) with employer match and a 457 savings plan.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by visiting the city’s website at www.cityofbowie.org and clicking on the employment link.
Application Deadline
All applications must be submitted by June 14, 2024, to be considered for the role. It is mandatory for all applicants to submit a completed City of Bowie employment application.
COVID-19 Considerations
While there is a strong preference for applicants to be vaccinated against COVID-19, it is not a strict requirement. However, adherence to any prevailing public health guidelines and city policies is expected.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The City of Bowie is committed to maintaining a drug and alcohol-free workplace and is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).
About the Employer
The City of Bowie is celebrated for its proactive community-oriented approach. It prides itself on its commitment to maintaining an excellent quality of life for its residents through efficient public service and bustling recreational facilities.
Conclusion
The role of Superintendent for the Parks & Grounds Division in the City of Bowie is not only a prestigious position but also one that offers significant professional fulfillment. This is an exceptional opportunity for a passionate and experienced professional to lead and innovate in the realm of parks and recreation management. With a generous compensation package and the chance to make a tangible impact on the community’s well-being, it’s a role that promises both personal and professional growth.
For those who meet the qualifications and are driven by a commitment to excellence in public service, applying for this position could be the first step towards a rewarding career in one of Maryland’s most cherished communities. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity—apply today and contribute to the City of Bowie’s lasting legacy of beauty and recreational excellence.
