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Operations Manager-Exempt Management
Career Insights for Landscaping / Grounds Supervisor
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What they do
A Landscaping or Grounds Supervisor supervises the staff that provide landscaping for residences, parks, public gardens, college campuses or building or office park grounds. Supervises work to care for plants and trees, including mowing, trimming and planting, and work to repair driveways, walks, benches or other structures. Oversees equipment maintenance and transportation, and communicates with residential customers.
$61,014 / year median in California
+4% projected growth
Job Description
G ENERAL D ESCRIPTION OF P OSITION
Under the direction of the General Manager, the Operations Manager is responsible for the overall strategic leadership, planning, and coordination of the District's day-to-day operations across Parks, Facilities, Recreation, and Community Services. This position functions as the executive-level deputy to the General Manager, with broad responsibility for operations, policy implementation, and interdepartmental coordination. The Operations Manager ensures that District services are delivered efficiently, facilities and parks are well maintained, capital projects are effectively executed, and staff are trained, supervised, and supported in alignment with the District's mission, policies, and goals.DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
The Operations Manager is an exempt management-level classification with broad responsibility for administrative, operational, and supervisory functions. This position consolidates the responsibilities of the Parks & Facilities Superintendent, Supervisor, and Foreman into a single leadership role. It requires a high degree of independence, professional judgment, and technical expertise in parks and facility operations, project management, budgeting, and personnel administration. The position works closely with the General Manager, Board of Directors, and community stakeholders, representing the District at public meetings and interagency collaborations.SUPERVISION RECEIVED/EXERCISED
Receives general direction from the General Manager or his/her designee. Exercises direct and indirect supervision over all operational divisions and their staff, including professional, supervisory, technical, and field employees, as well as contract and volunteer crews.E SSENTIAL J OB D UTIES
District-Wide Operations Management Direct, oversee, and coordinate the operations of Parks, Facilities, Recreation, and contracted services. Serve as acting General Manager in the GM's absence.Ensure effective implementation of District policies, programs, and priorities. Staff Leadership & Development Recruit, hire, train, evaluate, and supervise staff at multiple levels. Establish performance standards and provide coaching, mentoring, and discipline when necessary. Foster teamwork and professional development. Budget & Financial Oversight Prepare, monitor, and manage departmental and program budgets. Support capital improvement planning, LLAD management, and cost-recovery initiatives. Assist in grant development, reporting, and compliance. Facilities & Parks Operations Oversee maintenance, repair, and operation of District parks, community center, aquatics facilities, trails, playgrounds, and landscaped areas. Direct weed abatement, safety, and risk management programs. Coordinate contractor services, capital projects, and long-range facility improvements. Community & Interagency Engagement Represent the District with community groups, governmental agencies, and at Board meetings. Respond to public inquiries, complaints, and service requests. Support community engagement, volunteer programs, and special projects. Builds partnerships with external agencies, nonprofits, and local organizations to leverage resources and support District initiatives. Safety, Risk Management & Emergency Response Lead District safety programs, training, and compliance with Cal/OSHA and related standards. Ensure adherence to workplace hazard communication and environmental regulations. Respond to District emergencies and coordinate disaster recovery efforts.
Q UALIFICATIONS AND E DUCATION R EQUIREMENTS
Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:Experience:
Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in parks, facilities, recreation, or public works management, including at least three (3) years in a supervisory/management role.Education:
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Public Administration, Recreation, Park Management, Horticulture, Construction Management, or related field (preferred). Equivalent experience in lieu of degree may be considered.P REFERRED S KILLS AND / OR C ERTIFICATIONS
(or ability to obtain)A QUATIC F ACILITY O PERATOR
(AFO)OR C ERTIFIED P OOL /S PA O PERATOR CERTIFICATION
(CPO). Qualified Applicator Certificate (QAC) or Qualified Applicator License (QAL) through the California Department of Pesticide Regulation. Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI)- Demonstrates knowledge of safety standards in public play areas. Certified Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP) or Certified Parks and Recreation Executive (CPRE)
- Recognized leadership certifications for parks and recreation professionals. Public Works Supervisor Certification or similar supervisory designation
- Beneficial for overseeing public infrastructure and field crews. California Pesticide Safety Trainer Certification
- Supports leadership in environmental compliance. Project Management Certification (e.g., PMP, CAPM)
- Useful for managing capital projects, timelines, and cross-departmental coordination. Public agency budget administration or purchasing certification (such as CALPELRA, CSDA, or NIGP offerings)
- For budget and procurement oversight.