Parks & Recreation Director

Just to the west of the majestic San Juan Mountains, high on southwest Colorado’s desert plateau sits the City of Cortez. “Platted in 1886, incorporated in 1902, and becoming a city in 1952, the founding date of Cortez is (open) to interpretation,” says the City’s budget. Rich in ancient history and natural beauty, Cortez (pop. 8,800, elev. 6,191, 6.21 sq. mi.) is the largest city in, and county seat of, Montezuma County. Residents enjoy access to the massive San Juan National Forest, every manner of outdoor recreation, and the serenity of the high desert and the American West.  Cortez has a proposed budget of approximately $30 million for FY 2022 (GF $12.2 million) that will support all City services and approximately 135 FTE.

Using a dedicated sales tax and prudent management over many years, Cortez has very high park space per capita and one of the best parks systems for a city of its size anywhere. The city’s parks, facilities, and recreation programs are a source of tremendous community pride. The proposed 2022 departmental budget is $3.39 million, supporting about 13 FTE, 10 PTE, and 50 seasonal (peak).

A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field of study (parks and recreation management, physical education, business or public administration, or related) and three to five years of progressively responsible experience in parks and recreation management, including supervisory experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience are required. A masters in recreation administration or related areas, NPRA certifications (CPRE, CPRP), and experience in a local government setting (municipal, county, or recreation district) are all preferred, but not required.

The annual salary range for this position is $68,494 to $102,710 DOQE. In addition, the following benefits are provided: health (City pays approx. 90%, employee, 10%) and dental (City pays 100%) insurances; life insurance; mandatory 5% supplemental retirement, matched 100% by the city, plus optional voluntary deferred compensation plan; vacation, sick, and discretionary leave, plus 10 paid holidays; and employee assistance program. Relocation assistance subject to negotiation.

Filing Deadline: November 8, 2021

Contact: Andrew (Drew) Gorgey at (970) 987-1238 (direct)

Full information: https://columbialtd.com/recruitments

Cover letter and resume only to: apply@columbialtd.com