Parks Division Director
Apply NowCompany: State of Kansas
Location: Pratt, KS 67124
Description:
Job Posting
Important Recruitment Information for this vacancy
Job Posting closes: April 7, 2025
Required documents uploaded by: April 9, 2025
Agency Information:
The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) is an executive branch agency in charge of operating and regulating the use of state parks, state lakes, recreational grounds, wildlife areas and sanctuaries, fish hatcheries, natural areas, historic sites and other lands, waters, and facilities for the promotion of public health, safety, and for the use and pleasure of visitors. The agency is also charged with the development and conservation of wildlife and the natural resources within the state. The agency oversees 29 state parks, 500 miles of trails, approximately 460,301 acres of leased or owned public lands, management of four hatcheries, and four nature centers.
To meet our mission, projects, and goals, KDWP employs approximately 466 full time employees and up to 350 temporary employees, throughout the state, with diverse and varying skillsets. The largest agency office is the Operations Offices in Pratt, Kansas. The Office of the Secretary is maintained in Topeka, Kansas. There are four Regional Offices located in Topeka, Wichita, Hays, and Dodge City; six District Offices in Kansas City, Chanute, Colby, Fort Scott, Garden City, and Mound City; and a Research Office located in Emporia, Kansas. Various wildlife, public land, and parks offices are located across the state.
KDWP has an annual budget of $110 million for Fiscal Year 2024. The agency is primarily funded through license fees, grants and federal funds that are provided through the Pittman-Robertson and Dingell-Johnson Acts.
About the Position
Who can apply: Anyone
Classified/Unclassified Service: Unclassified
Full-Time/Part-Time: Full-time
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Eligible to Receive Benefits: Yes
Veterans' Preference Eligible: Yes
Search Keywords: Pratt, Parks, Director
Compensation: $87,500 - $97,500 annual salary
* Salary can vary depending upon education, experience, or qualifications.
Employment Benefits
Immediate comprehensive medical, mental, dental, vision, and additional coverage
Sick & Vacation leave
Work-Life Balance programs: parental leave, military leave, jury leave, funeral leave
Paid State Holidays (designated by the Governor annually)
Fitness Centers in select locations
Employee discounts with the STAR Program
Retirement and deferred compensation programs
Visit the Employee Benefits page for more information...
Position Summary & Responsibilities
Position Summary: The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks is seeking a Parks Division Director to oversee and guide operations of 29 state parks that welcome more than 7 million visitors each year. This unclassified, full-time position is located at the Pratt Operations Office .
The Parks Division Director should be a leader and visionary who will shape the future of Kansas State Parks. This pivotal role combines strategic leadership and administrative excellence to direct the statewide Kansas State Parks system.
They will be skilled at bringing people together, developing staff, and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation among park staff. The Parks Division Director will also maintain strong relationships with external stakeholders, including other governmental agencies, the Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission, and constituent groups representing wildlife and park interests.
Job Responsibilities may include but are not limited to the following:
Qualifications
Education: A bachelor's degree in park and recreation management, natural resource management, or a related field as determined by the Department.
Licensing & Certification: A valid driver's license and the ability to pass a background check are required.
Minimum Qualifications: A bachelor's degree in park and recreation management, natural resource management, or a related field as determined by the Department. Four years of related work experience (education may be substituted for experience as determined relevant by the Department).
Preferred Qualifications: Preferred experience in program administration, budget development, and staff management.
Recruiter Contact Information
Name: Laverne Taylor
Email: laverne.taylor@ks.gov
Phone: 620-672-0704
Job Application Process
First Sign in or register as a New User.
Complete or update your contact information on the Careers> My Contact Information page. *This information is included on all your job applications.
Upload required documents listed below for the Careers> My Job Applications page. *This information is included on all your job applications.
Start your draft job application, upload other required documents, and Submit when it is complete.
Manage your draft and submitted applications on the Careers> My Job Applications page.
Check your email and My Job Notifications for written communications from the Recruiter.
Email - sent to the Preferred email on the My Contact Information page
Notifications - view the Careers> My Job Notifications page
Helpful Resources at jobs.ks.gov : "How to Apply for a Job - Instructions" and "How to Search for a Job - Instructions"
Required Documents for this Application to be Complete
The following are the required items to apply:
1) a letter of interest
2) a detailed resume; including a valid e-mail address
3) transcript material, if applicable, (copies of official transcripts or unofficial student copies are acceptable as long as degree is conferred)
4) employment application - this is generated from the information which is input into the system
5) an Authorization to Release Information form** (this can be found at the following website):
https://www.ksoutdoors.com/news/KDWP-Info/Jobs/Employment-Application-Additional-Info
**Please note, this form must either be witnessed and signed by a Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks employee or signed in front of and notarized by a notary public. We reserve the right to conduct a background check on all qualified applicants.
Incomplete applications will not be considered. A complete application packet must be submitted for each position. We no longer make copies of previous applications. Submitted application materials will be reviewed in Pratt to assure that the position minimum requirements are met, and those meeting the minimum requirements will be forwarded to the respective division for interview selection.
Applicants are notified whether or not they are selected to interview. The interview is generally a one-time, panel interview consisting of position-specific questions for all applicants (same questions for each applicant), with the selection being made after all candidate interviews are completed.
Helpful Resources at jobs.ks.gov : "How, What, & Where do I Upload Documents"
How to Claim Veterans Preference
Veterans' Preference Eligible (VPE): Former military personnel or their spouse that have been verified as a "veteran"; under K.S.A. 73-201 will receive an interview if they meet the minimum competency factors of the position. The veterans' preference laws do not guarantee the veteran a job. Positions are filled with the best qualified candidate as determine by the hiring manager.
Learn more about claiming Veteran's Preference
How to Claim Disability Hiring Preference
Applicants that have physical, cognitive and/or mental disabilities may claim an employment preference when applying for positions. If they are qualified to meet the performance standards of the position, with or without a reasonable accommodation, they will receive an interview for the position. The preference does not guarantee an applicant the job, as positions are filled with the best qualified candidate as determined by the hiring manager.
Learn more about claiming Disability Hiring Preference
PLEASE NOTE: The documentation verifying a person's eligibility for use of this preference should not be sent along with other application materials to the hiring agency but should be sent directly to OPS. These documents should be sent either by fax to (785)296-7712, scanned and emailed to Gustavo.Victoriano@ks.gov , or can be mailed/delivered in person to:
ATTN: Disability Hiring Preference Coordinator
Office of Personnel Services
Landon State Office Building
900 SW Jackson, Rm 401
Topeka, KS 66612
Equal Employment Opportunity
The State of Kansas is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity, equity, and inclusion as essential elements that create and foster a welcoming workplace. All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, political affiliation, disability or any other factor unrelated to the essential functions of the job.
If you wish to identify yourself as a qualified person with a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act and would like to request an accommodation, please address the request to the agency recruiter.
Important Recruitment Information for this vacancy
Job Posting closes: April 7, 2025
Required documents uploaded by: April 9, 2025
Agency Information:
The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) is an executive branch agency in charge of operating and regulating the use of state parks, state lakes, recreational grounds, wildlife areas and sanctuaries, fish hatcheries, natural areas, historic sites and other lands, waters, and facilities for the promotion of public health, safety, and for the use and pleasure of visitors. The agency is also charged with the development and conservation of wildlife and the natural resources within the state. The agency oversees 29 state parks, 500 miles of trails, approximately 460,301 acres of leased or owned public lands, management of four hatcheries, and four nature centers.
To meet our mission, projects, and goals, KDWP employs approximately 466 full time employees and up to 350 temporary employees, throughout the state, with diverse and varying skillsets. The largest agency office is the Operations Offices in Pratt, Kansas. The Office of the Secretary is maintained in Topeka, Kansas. There are four Regional Offices located in Topeka, Wichita, Hays, and Dodge City; six District Offices in Kansas City, Chanute, Colby, Fort Scott, Garden City, and Mound City; and a Research Office located in Emporia, Kansas. Various wildlife, public land, and parks offices are located across the state.
KDWP has an annual budget of $110 million for Fiscal Year 2024. The agency is primarily funded through license fees, grants and federal funds that are provided through the Pittman-Robertson and Dingell-Johnson Acts.
About the Position
Who can apply: Anyone
Classified/Unclassified Service: Unclassified
Full-Time/Part-Time: Full-time
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Eligible to Receive Benefits: Yes
Veterans' Preference Eligible: Yes
Search Keywords: Pratt, Parks, Director
Compensation: $87,500 - $97,500 annual salary
* Salary can vary depending upon education, experience, or qualifications.
Employment Benefits
Immediate comprehensive medical, mental, dental, vision, and additional coverage
Sick & Vacation leave
Work-Life Balance programs: parental leave, military leave, jury leave, funeral leave
Paid State Holidays (designated by the Governor annually)
Fitness Centers in select locations
Employee discounts with the STAR Program
Retirement and deferred compensation programs
Visit the Employee Benefits page for more information...
Position Summary & Responsibilities
Position Summary: The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks is seeking a Parks Division Director to oversee and guide operations of 29 state parks that welcome more than 7 million visitors each year. This unclassified, full-time position is located at the Pratt Operations Office .
The Parks Division Director should be a leader and visionary who will shape the future of Kansas State Parks. This pivotal role combines strategic leadership and administrative excellence to direct the statewide Kansas State Parks system.
They will be skilled at bringing people together, developing staff, and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation among park staff. The Parks Division Director will also maintain strong relationships with external stakeholders, including other governmental agencies, the Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission, and constituent groups representing wildlife and park interests.
Job Responsibilities may include but are not limited to the following:
- Direct the statewide operations of the Kansas State Parks system to ensure sustainability and operational excellence.
- Develop and implement strategic plans including capital improvement plans, Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plans, land-use and facility plans, safety plans, and more.
- Ensure strict compliance with fiscal policies, rules, directives, and guidelines throughout the Parks Division.
- Serve on agency leadership teams and contribute to policy development, strategic decision-making, and interdepartmental coordination.
- Navigate legislative and regulatory processes to support the Parks Division's goals and effective operations.
- Identify, pursue, and secure funding opportunities including grants, partnerships, user fees, and budget allocations.
- Supervise, evaluate, and maintain accountability for a team of regional supervisors and support staff, ensuring all Parks Division staff are equipped to perform their duties while actively engaging with the public and providing an exceptional visitor experience.
- Monitor emerging trends in park management, recreation, and conservation to maintain Kansas' position as a leader in state parks.
Qualifications
Education: A bachelor's degree in park and recreation management, natural resource management, or a related field as determined by the Department.
Licensing & Certification: A valid driver's license and the ability to pass a background check are required.
Minimum Qualifications: A bachelor's degree in park and recreation management, natural resource management, or a related field as determined by the Department. Four years of related work experience (education may be substituted for experience as determined relevant by the Department).
Preferred Qualifications: Preferred experience in program administration, budget development, and staff management.
Recruiter Contact Information
Name: Laverne Taylor
Email: laverne.taylor@ks.gov
Phone: 620-672-0704
Job Application Process
First Sign in or register as a New User.
Complete or update your contact information on the Careers> My Contact Information page. *This information is included on all your job applications.
Upload required documents listed below for the Careers> My Job Applications page. *This information is included on all your job applications.
Start your draft job application, upload other required documents, and Submit when it is complete.
Manage your draft and submitted applications on the Careers> My Job Applications page.
Check your email and My Job Notifications for written communications from the Recruiter.
Email - sent to the Preferred email on the My Contact Information page
Notifications - view the Careers> My Job Notifications page
Helpful Resources at jobs.ks.gov : "How to Apply for a Job - Instructions" and "How to Search for a Job - Instructions"
Required Documents for this Application to be Complete
The following are the required items to apply:
1) a letter of interest
2) a detailed resume; including a valid e-mail address
3) transcript material, if applicable, (copies of official transcripts or unofficial student copies are acceptable as long as degree is conferred)
4) employment application - this is generated from the information which is input into the system
5) an Authorization to Release Information form** (this can be found at the following website):
https://www.ksoutdoors.com/news/KDWP-Info/Jobs/Employment-Application-Additional-Info
**Please note, this form must either be witnessed and signed by a Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks employee or signed in front of and notarized by a notary public. We reserve the right to conduct a background check on all qualified applicants.
Incomplete applications will not be considered. A complete application packet must be submitted for each position. We no longer make copies of previous applications. Submitted application materials will be reviewed in Pratt to assure that the position minimum requirements are met, and those meeting the minimum requirements will be forwarded to the respective division for interview selection.
Applicants are notified whether or not they are selected to interview. The interview is generally a one-time, panel interview consisting of position-specific questions for all applicants (same questions for each applicant), with the selection being made after all candidate interviews are completed.
Helpful Resources at jobs.ks.gov : "How, What, & Where do I Upload Documents"
How to Claim Veterans Preference
Veterans' Preference Eligible (VPE): Former military personnel or their spouse that have been verified as a "veteran"; under K.S.A. 73-201 will receive an interview if they meet the minimum competency factors of the position. The veterans' preference laws do not guarantee the veteran a job. Positions are filled with the best qualified candidate as determine by the hiring manager.
Learn more about claiming Veteran's Preference
How to Claim Disability Hiring Preference
Applicants that have physical, cognitive and/or mental disabilities may claim an employment preference when applying for positions. If they are qualified to meet the performance standards of the position, with or without a reasonable accommodation, they will receive an interview for the position. The preference does not guarantee an applicant the job, as positions are filled with the best qualified candidate as determined by the hiring manager.
Learn more about claiming Disability Hiring Preference
PLEASE NOTE: The documentation verifying a person's eligibility for use of this preference should not be sent along with other application materials to the hiring agency but should be sent directly to OPS. These documents should be sent either by fax to (785)296-7712, scanned and emailed to Gustavo.Victoriano@ks.gov , or can be mailed/delivered in person to:
ATTN: Disability Hiring Preference Coordinator
Office of Personnel Services
Landon State Office Building
900 SW Jackson, Rm 401
Topeka, KS 66612
Equal Employment Opportunity
The State of Kansas is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity, equity, and inclusion as essential elements that create and foster a welcoming workplace. All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, political affiliation, disability or any other factor unrelated to the essential functions of the job.
If you wish to identify yourself as a qualified person with a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act and would like to request an accommodation, please address the request to the agency recruiter.