Park Manager
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Park Manager
Salary
$53,851.20 - $81,806.40 Annually
Location
Eldora - 50627 - Hardin County, IA
Job Type
Full-time
Job Number
26-03482
Agency
542 Iowa Department of Natural Resources
Opening Date
06/25/2026
Closing Date
7/13/2026 11:59 PM Central
LinkedIn Tag
LI-POST
Point of Contact
Chad Kelchen, 515-371-6018, chad.kelchen@dnr.iowa.gov
To Apply
The Department of Natural Resources encourages all applicants to upload a current resume and cover letter to their online application.
Description
Benefits
Questions
Job Description
Only applicants who meet the Minimum Qualification Requirements and Selective Requirements (listed below) will be placed on the eligible list.
The Department of Natural Resources encourages all applicants to upload a current resume and cover letter to their online application.
The Iowa DNR is seeking a motivated individual to join our Parks, Forestry and Preserves Bureau as a Park Manager for Pine Lake and Union Grove State Parks. This position offers a unique opportunity to work in one of Iowa's premier outdoor recreation destinations. The successful candidate will enjoy a high degree of independence, the satisfaction of making a visible impact on park operations and natural resources, and the opportunity to contribute to the stewardship of public lands that are enjoyed by thousands of visitors each year.
Pine Lake State Park is situated in Central Iowa, an easy drive from I35, on the NE edge of the City of Eldora, Hardin County, Iowa. Union Grove State Park is located roughly 4 miles South of Gladbrook off of 220thStreet, Tama County, Iowa. Both parks include cabins, hiking trails, lakes, boat ramp/docks, a beach, campground, shelters, restrooms and play areas. The successful candidate will be required to live within 30 miles of Pine Lake State Park/Union Grove State Park as outlined in DNR Park Bureau policy.
As the Park Manager, you will assist the District Supervisor in the daily administration and operation of the park, including supervising park staff; recruiting, hiring, and training seasonal and temporary employees; managing contracts and procurement activities; overseeing budgets; preparing monthly financial reports; and maintaining accurate inventories of park property, supplies, tools, equipment, and other assets.
Support the implementation of the park's resource management plan by planning, coordinating, and performing park maintenance, preventive maintenance, and construction projects. Conduct regular inspections of park facilities and amenities-including multi-use trails, natural areas, concession operations, playgrounds, boat ramps, and docks-to ensure visitor safety, accessibility compliance, operational functionality, and protection of natural resources.
Serve as a representative of the Department by participating in public outreach activities, responding to media inquiries, and promoting the state park system, recreational safety, and natural resource stewardship. Assist in the development and delivery of interpretive, educational, and volunteer programs, while fostering positive relationships with local agencies, community organizations, and stakeholder groups.
Help ensure a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for park visitors by providing information, maintaining order within public use areas, and enforcing applicable Iowa DNR Administrative Rules related to parks, boating, and fishing. Participate in ongoing enforcement training to maintain proficiency in enforcement procedures and equipment, complete incident reports and citations accurately, and ensure law enforcement equipment is properly maintained and operational.
Essential Functions
Manages parks by applying technical knowledge and experience.
Maintains power tools and equipment commonly used to maintain buildings and landscapes.
Applies knowledge of principles, theories and practices of parks and recreation and resource management to daily work.
Performs work both in office environments and outdoors in a variety of extreme weather conditions.
Trains other professional staff, technical workers, and volunteers to perform duties; develops and fosters teamwork.
Communicates verbally and in writing with DNR staff, management personnel, other state and federal agencies, groups with diverse audiences, other employees, and volunteers. Facilitate public meetings and presentations to diverse groups of stakeholders.
Performs work independently with minimal supervision and achieves consistent results. Ensures projects are organized, tracked and completed timely.
Carries heavy loads (40 lbs.+) across great distances and operates a wide variety of motor vehicles.
Uses PC-based software to complete work. Fiscal skills to administer budgets and track expenditures. Spreadsheet skills to create, modify and manipulate data.
Critical Job Competencies
Accountability, Integrity, High Productivity, Communication Skills, Project Management, Team Player,
Interpersonal Skills, Computer Skills, Self-Management, Customer Focus, Project Management and Technical Skills (park management, mechanical)
What You Get From Us:
A competitive pay plan and rewarding work.
Insurance benefits that start the first of the month following 30 days of employment.
(Premiums can start as low as $64/month for single and $210/month for family coverage).
Separate vacation and sick leave accruals that start on the first day and can roll over annually.
Nine paid holidays/year.
Iowa Public Employee Retirement System (IPERS) retirement package with employer match.
Optional deferred compensation (457/401A) plan with employer match.
Professional training opportunities.
Family friendly and professional work environment.
Employee Discount Programs (vision, cellular, fitness, recreation, season passes, travel, counseling)
The State's total compensation package features benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation. For a list of additional benefits, please visit the DAS website (https://das.iowa.gov/human-resources/benefits-glance) for more information.
Comments
Special requirements:
1.CDL (must obtain within first six months of hire)
Pesticide license (must obtain within 1 year of hire)
Maintain/Obtain valid Driver's license. (must obtain upon hire)
CPR/First Aide certification (must obtain within first six months of hire)
Chain Saw Safety Certification (must obtain within first year of hire)
Defensive Tactics training (must obtain within first year of hire)
The starting salary for new state (Executive Branch) employees is expected to be at the base of the pay range. Additional salary increases may occur after the first six months, and then annually (if applicable). The State's total compensation package features an outstanding set of employee benefits that are worth about 30% of your total compensation. Visit the DAS website (https://das.iowa.gov/state-employment/benefits-glance) for more benefit information.
Park Webpage Links: https://www.iowadnr.gov/places-go/state-parks/all-parks/pine-lake-state-parkand https://www.iowadnr.gov/places-go/state-parks/all-parks/union-grove-state-park
Ensure you are kept up-to-date of this position by checking your email regularly for emails from info@govermentjobs.com (file://iowa.gov.state.ia.us/data/DNRUsers/mforbes0/My%20Documents/info@govermentjobs.com) . This is a system generated email from the DAS application system and it may be sent directly to your Junk/Spam folder.
DNR Application Tips (https://www.iowadnr.gov/About-DNR/Employment)
For more information about DNR Employment Opportunities and position specific notices, please visit the DNR Employment (https://www.iowadnr.gov/About-DNR/Employment) website.
The State of Iowa is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.
E-Verify and Right to Work
The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federalRight to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visitwww.e-verify.gov.
Iowa DNR Mission
To conserve and enhance our natural resources in cooperation with individuals and organizations to improve the quality of life in Iowa and ensure a legacy for future generations.
Selectives
914Park and Recreation Management
6 months' experience, twelve semester hours, or a combination of both in the operation and/or maintenance of parks or park recreational services. May have commonly been served at a national, state, or county park level.
OR
450 Natural Resources
6 months' experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both in one or in a combination of more than one of the following: - Ecology - Environmental planning - Soil conservation - Biological sciences - Waste water treatment - Forestry - Engineering related to natural resource areas (dams, sanitary engineers, etc.) - Outdoor recreation planning - Physical sciences - River basin planning - Geography - Wildlife management
Minimum Qualification Requirements
Applicants must meet at least one of the following minimum requirements to qualify for positions in this job classification:
1) Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in park and outdoor recreation, natural resource management, biological sciences, hospitality management, or public administration, and experience equal to one year of full-time work in park operations (may include experience as a park laborer, planner, manager, or ranger).
2) Five years of full-time work experience in park operations (may include experience as a park laborer, planner, manager, or ranger).
3) A total of five years of education and/or full-time experience (as described in number one), where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university coursework in park and outdoor recreation, natural resource management, biological sciences, hospitality management, or public administration field equals one year of full-time experience.
4) Current, continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes three years of full time work as a Natural Resource Technician 1 or 2, Park Ranger, or Conservation Officer.
For additional information, please click on thislink to view the job description. (https://das.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/hr/documents/class\and\pay/JobClassDescriptions/ParkManager-05335.pdf)
Additional Qualification Requirements
Within a period of time after hire, as determined by the appointing authority, employees in this class may be required to obtain one or more of the following certificates, licenses, or endorsements:
A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) and endorsements
Pesticide Applicator - by the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship
Certified Water and Wastewater system operator
First Aide/CPR will be required within a specified period of time as determined by the appointing authority.
O.C. spray, handcuffing, and defensive tactics training will be required within a specified period of time as determined by the appointing authority.
Why Choose the State of Iowa?
At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset - our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.
Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:
Competitive Compensation:
Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.
Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendlyTotal Compensation Calculator (https://das.iowa.gov/media/3773/download?inline) .Gain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.
Health and Wellness:
Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.
Retirement Planning:
We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind.Click here to learn more about IPERS (https://ipers.org/members) .
Paid Time Off:
Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.
Professional Development:
Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP):
We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.
Diversity and Inclusion:
Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.
Join Us - Elevate Your Career:
Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa?Click here (https://iowa.attract.neogov.com/recruitment/p/benefits) to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!
01
Do you understand that the answers to all of the following questions must be truthful, honest, and accurate to the best of your ability? Please read all questions and answers thoroughly and make sure you understand them completely.Ensure the answers to your questions match the information filled out on your application and the attachments you have uploaded. If the answers to your questions are inconsistent with your application information or uploaded attachments, you will be given zero points for the question.Knowingly misrepresenting the facts when submitting any information related to an application, examination, certification, appeal, or any other facet of the selection process will result in your disqualification from this application and future employment with the state of Iowa.
Yes - I understand and agree.
No
02
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY
Have you filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq?
No - I have NOT filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq
Yes - I HAVE filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. §611 et seq
03
Have you graduated from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in in park and outdoor recreation, natural resource management, biological sciences, hospitality management, or public administration, AND have experience equal to one year of full-time work in park operations (may include experience as a park laborer, planner, manager, or ranger)?
Yes
No
04
Do you have five years of full-time work experience in park operations (may include experience as a park laborer, planner, manager, or ranger)?
Yes
No
05
Do you have a TOTAL of five years of education in park and outdoor recreation, natural resource management, biological sciences, hospitality management, or public administration, and/or full-time experience (full-time work in park operations - may include experience as a park laborer, planner, manager, or ranger)? Thirty semester hours of accredited college or university coursework in park and outdoor recreation, natural resource management, biological sciences, hospitality management, or public administration field equals one year of full-time experience.
Yes - I have the five years needed
I do not have the five years needed
06
Are you a current State of Iowa employee - executive branch? IF YES - How many years do you have of experience in the classification of Natural Resource Technician 1 or 2, Park Ranger, or Conservation Officer?
I am not a current State of Iowa employee - executive branch
I do not have any experience in the classifications listed
Less than three years of experience in the classifications listed
Three years or more of experience in the classifications listed
07
Does your application demonstrate that you have 6 months' experience, twelve semester hours, or a combination of both in the operation and/or maintenance of parks or park recreational services? May have commonly been served at a national, state, or county park level.
Yes
No
08
If you answered "Yes" to the question above - please list exactly HOW you meet it: list exact classes and credit hours, employer, dates and hours per week and exact duties. Please do not paste or state - See application or resume. If you answered no to the question above please @type in "No" in the box below.
09
Does your application demonstrate that you have 6 months' experience, 12 semester hours, or a combination of both in one or in a combination of more than one of the following:
Ecology
Environmental planning
Soil conservation
Biological sciences
Waste water treatment
Forestry
Engineering related to natural resource areas (dams, sanitary engineers, etc.)
Outdoor recreation planning
Physical sciences
River basin planning
Geography
Wildlife management?
Yes
No
10
If you answered "Yes" to the question above - please list exactly HOW you meet it: list exact classes and credit hours, employer, dates and hours per week and exact duties. Please do not paste or state - See application or resume. If you answered no to the question above please @type in "No" in the box below.
11
After reviewing the list of essential functions for the Iowa Department of Natural Resources position you are applying for, please answer the following question: Based on the list of essential functions listed within the job announcement, are you able to perform the essential functions of this position, with or without a reasonable accommodation?
Yes
No
12
Reference Checks: If you are one of the top candidates for this position, the Hiring Team may wish to contact the references provided by you or any others we deem appropriate in order to verify your current or prior employment for the purpose of evaluation of your qualifications for the above position. Any information obtained through a reference check shall be kept confidential to the extent allowed under the Iowa Open Records Act (Iowa Code chapter 22). Please list below three professional business references, including at least one current or former supervisor. Please provide name, title, organization, relationship to you, phone, email, and full address of the reference. You may attach these to your application or @type them in the box provided below.
Required Question
Employer
State of Iowa
Agency
542 Iowa Department of Natural Resources
Address
6200 Park Ave
STE 200
Des Moines, Iowa, 50321
Website
http://www.iowadnr.gov/
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