Posted: 3/19/25
Salary:  $125,872-$181,240
Location:  Gresham, OR

Application Deadline: April 21st, 2025

The Position

The City of Gresham is seeking a hands-on Watershed and Parks Director to lead and manage the planning, development, and oversight of the City's watershed and parks infrastructure. The Director also manages all aspects of the City’s Stormwater Utility (Watershed) and Parks service area, including operation, planning, design, and construction. Reporting to an Assistant City Manager, the Watershed and Parks Director is pivotal in setting the strategic direction, mission, goals, and operations, ensuring the programs align with the City's objectives and regulatory standards.

The Director provides the leadership necessary to create and implement a strategic asset management program for stormwater infrastructure (gray and green), natural resources, and parks infrastructure to ensure sustainable and cost-effective management of the City’s assets. The Director also crafts and implements policies, procedures, and business practices to boost performance and outcomes while recommending and instituting administrative controls and enhancements. This position involves preparing strategic and annual work plans, executing special projects, and assessing programs and projects to ensure they meet the City's benchmarks and goals.

The Watershed and Parks Director leads a high-performing, collaborative team that includes engineers, scientists, planners, project managers, and operations crews who perform system-wide master planning, design and construction of stormwater infrastructure, natural resources management, and parks infrastructure. The Director creates a shared vision and organizational structure that leverages the unique talents of the staff to achieve water quality, natural resources, and recreational improvements. The Director establishes clear and manageable goals, delegates and empowers staff, and supports professional development opportunities, creating a welcoming atmosphere of belonging.

The Watershed and Parks Director is a forward-thinking leader who plays a crucial role in shaping Gresham's environmental and infrastructure landscape. They successfully integrate policy and strategy while driving innovation in a regulatory environment. The Director brings a strong commitment to sustainable practices and continuous improvement and works collaboratively to advance the City's vision for a resilient and adaptive watershed and parks system that meets current and future needs.

The Qualifications

At least six (6) years of progressively responsible experience relevant to the position. Direct experience in a combination of stormwater utility management, watershed stewardship, clean water regulations, parks management, and stormwater and parks utility operations are essential, as is a strong understanding of environmental services. Prior leadership experience managing a team and working collaboratively across functions is required. Strong municipal management coupled with prior experience working with a City Council is essential. A sound financial background with an understanding of budgets, financial management, and identifying funding mechanisms is required. A background in asset management is ideal.

A bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Natural Resources Management, Parks and Recreation Management, Planning, Environmental Studies, Public Administration, or related field is required. An advanced degree in a related field is preferred. An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities will be considered. An Oregon Professional Engineer license or the ability to obtain licensure in Oregon is preferred. The Watershed and Parks Director is required to be on-site four days a week.

Compensation and Benefits

The salary range for the Watershed and Parks Director position is $125,872-$181,240 and will depend on the qualifications of the successful candidate. The City of Gresham encourages a healthy work-life balance and provides a robust benefits package that includes comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, employer HRA/VEBA contributions, PERS retirement, employer sponsored deferred compensation, employer paid life insurance and long-term disability, and generous PTO, sick leave, and holidays. Full details can be viewed here.

To Be Considered

We believe that to deliver the highest level of service to all Gresham community members, it is crucial we employ a diverse workforce, foster an inclusive working environment, and ensure our policies and systems result in equitable outcomes. The City seeks candidates who will support these values by continuously incorporating equity in their daily work and actively contributing to a workplace culture that respects unique viewpoints, life experiences and cultural perspectives. Come build the future with us.

Applications will be accepted electronically by Raftelis at jobs.crelate.com. Applicants complete a brief online form and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. The position will remain open until filled, with the first review of applications on April 21, 2025.