The Director of Parks, Recreation & Public Property is an executive-level position reporting directly to Mayor John Ewing, Jr., and playing a central role in managing and shaping the City's extensive parks, recreation, and public property systems. The Director must be a seasoned parks and recreation professional committed to excellence in public service, park management and operational leadership, inclusive programming, and long-term urban livability. The Director's mandate is to bridge the gap between ambitious planning and operational excellence across Omaha's impressive 256 site, 11,000-acre park system. This position requires a visionary, positive, problem-solving leadership style, strong personnel and systems management skills, and an open, innovative approach to public/private partnerships and collaboration.
The ideal candidate is a strategic builder who can translate bold vision into operational reality, bringing big-picture thinking and hands-on execution skills to move Omaha toward its parks vision while fostering a culture of excellence, partnership, and continuous improvement.
Compensation
This is a full-time, exempt, benefit-eligible position. The expected salary range is $180,000–$200,000, commensurate with qualifications, with a comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, and dental coverage, HSA funding, a defined benefit pension program, fourteen paid holidays, and generous paid sick and vacation leave.
Location
This position is based in Omaha, Nebraska. The Director is expected to be present and engaged across the city’s parks system and community. Possession of, or the ability to obtain, a valid Driver’s License is required.
Start Date
Summer 2026
To Apply
Select "Apply Here" below. Please include a resume and a cover letter describing your qualifications that match the position criteria and what you will bring to the role. Interested candidates should apply by April 30, 2026 for priority consideration. The position is open until filled.
For More Information
For additional information regarding this opportunity, please contact Andrew Leider, Managing Director and Search Lead at Potrero Group, at aleider@potrerogroup.com.
More information about the City of Omaha Parks & Recreation Department can be found at parks.cityofomaha.org.
