Parks Administrative Program Manager 1

Full Job Description

Requirements

Why It's a Great Opportunity:

The Administrative Program Manager 1 role is an opportunity for a highly organized, forward-thinking professional to make a meaningful impact across the Parks Department.

You will lead key operational functions, including human resources support and the supervision of a skilled accounting team, while also overseeing fleet, equipment, and asset tracking.

You will play a vital part in supporting budget development and serve as the financial liaison to the maintenance and recreation team, ensuring smooth communication and alignment.

Why It's a Great Department:

Pierce County Parks and Recreation manages more than 5,200 acres of parks, trails, and open space, ranging from community hubs to natural areas. We deliver diverse recreation programs and maintain the infrastructure that supports both active play and quiet connection with nature.

Our department is made up of four divisions: Park and Recreation Operations, Business Operations, Volunteer and Resource Development, and Park Stewardship and Infrastructure Delivery, working together to serve one of the most dynamic and fast-growing regions in Washington.

Guided by our mission to create livable communities, we provide opportunities for people to connect with nature, learn about sustainability, live healthy lives, and experience inclusive, thriving public spaces.

Joining Pierce County Parks means being part of a forward-thinking team that values collaboration, innovation, and community impact, where your work truly makes a difference every day.

Learn more about the Pierce County Parks and Recreation Department

How to be Successful in the Role:

To be successful in this role, you will bring an approachable leadership style, the ability to adapt quickly, and strong communication skills that help you navigate day-to-day operational needs and long-term strategic priorities.

Success looks like proactively identifying opportunities to improve processes, taking initiative in creative problem-solving, and guiding teams through change with clarity and confidence.

Your ability to set expectations, maintain accountability, and foster continuous improvement will be essential.

This role is a strong fit for someone who excels in a fast-paced environment, manages shifting priorities with ease, and contributes thoughtfully and effectively within a team-focused culture.

Your Future in this Role:

You will gain valuable leadership experience across a wide range of operational and strategic functions, building a strong foundation for future career growth.

You will have the opportunity to influence department-wide business processes, lead and develop staff, and shape improvements that create lasting impact.

By managing key behind-the-scenes functions, you will support the department in delivering exceptional service to everyone who lives or works in Pierce County.

Pierce County offers professional development through robust online learning and other training opportunities throughout your career to ensure your success.

Core Daily Responsibilities:

• Manage and oversee the daily administrative operations of a small department or division of a large department.
• Assign, review and approve the work of subordinate staff; investigate grievances involving subordinates and recommend resolution; recommend hiring, promotional and disciplinary actions; approve leave requests and overtime; provide adequate coverage during staff absences.
• Ensure consistent interpretation and application of laws, rules, policies and procedures.
• Assist in developing and implementing operating procedures consistent with regulations controlling departmental activities; develop and prepare training manuals and facilitate training to ensure consistent and proper procedures are followed.
• Oversee and establish data collection and billing procedures; verify billing and other accounting related activities; assist staff in resolving complex accounting related problems.

A classification description with a more detailed list of essential functions can be found here.

Qualifications

• Additional education or experience may substitute equally for the position requirements
• Two or more years of experience in an administrative position requiring budgetary and personnel skills
• Graduation from a four-year college or university with a degree in business, public administration, or a related field
• Please attach a current resume and cover letter with your application. Failure to attach these will result in an incomplete application.

Special Requirements and/or Qualifications

• A valid Washington State driver’s license may be required when travel is required of the position

As a condition of employment, the applicant will need to authorize and complete a background check. Information received from the background check is reviewed case-by-case and will not necessarily remove an applicant from consideration.

Additional Information

To be considered for this opportunity please:

• Complete and submit an online Pierce County Employment Application by selecting "APPLY" above or go to: www.piercecountywa.gov/jobs.
• If you have a question about this opportunity, please email the Recruitment Team at PCHRRecruit@piercecountywa.gov and specify the Job Number and Title.
• If you do not have internet access, you may visit your local public library or any WorkSource location and use their computers.
• Individuals needing accommodation in the application, testing process, or need this job announcement in an alternative format may call Human Resources at (253) 798-7480, at least two days prior to the need.

This is a competitive selection process. Your application will be reviewed and evaluated for the quality and quantity of education/experience in the areas listed.

Applicants whose qualifications most closely correspond to the County's needs will be eligible for further consideration.

Notification of application status normally occurs 2 to 3 weeks after the closing date.

Short notice may be given to applicants to participate in further selection processes which may include assessments, phone screen, and interviews.

At Pierce County, diversity, equity, and inclusion means commitment, not a single step.

We strive to foster an inclusive environment that supports equitable access to opportunities throughout your career.

We want to recruit, develop, and maintain a talented workforce from various backgrounds, cultures, lifestyles, and perspectives, committed to our vision.

Employees of the County have local, direct, and visible impact in our diverse community. Will you join us in keeping Pierce County place people are proud to call home?