City of Umatilla, Parks & Recreation Director 

The City of Umatilla, OR is seeking a Parks & Recreation Director for this growing and diverse city of 7,630 situated along the banks of the Columbia River in Eastern Oregon, three hours east of Portland. Umatilla is known for offering scenic beauty, easy access to outdoor recreation, and a quieter lifestyle within reach of bigger cities. Incorporated in 1864, the City of Umatilla operates under the Council-Manager form of government with a total budget of $121 million and a team of 70 FTEs.

THE UMATILLA PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT

Created in 2022, the Parks and Recreation Department has a team of 9.5 FTEs and an operating budget of $2 million, a capital budget of $2 million, and a festival budget of $2 million. Annual events include Rock the Locks, a three-day music festival held in October which brings thousands of visitors to town from across the nation.

The Department is responsible for providing recreation activities and special events to the community, oversight of the office operations at the Umatilla Marina & RV Park and Big River Golf Course, and maintenance and operation of the City’s parks and open space. The City has more than 227 acres of parkland and 16 parks (four of which are US Army Corps properties).

THE PARKS & RECREATION DIRECTOR

Reporting to the City Manager, the Parks & Recreation Director will be responsible for the development and implementation of the City’s parks and recreation goals and objectives, provide leadership in the creation, implementation, and evaluation of new recreation opportunities, and look to enhance and expand current recreation programs. The Parks & Recreation Director is a key member of the City’s management team. The Director will also have a critical role implementing the City’s Strategic Plan initiatives.

WHY APPLY

Umatilla is a waterfront wonder located along the Columbia River with its own marina. In this highly valued role, the new Parks & Recreation Director will benefit from a supportive City Council and City Manager who are dedicated to the contributions that quality-of-life parks and recreation bring to the community. City leaders are committed to keeping Umatilla’s small-town values and charm while the city continues to grow. The city government works as a team across all levels, including department directors, City Manager, and City Council. The City’s overall budget has grown 10-fold in the past 9 years, and it has very healthy reserves.

View the full job description and benefits information at gmphr.com.

More Information: GMP Consultants is assisting the City of Umatilla with this search. Learn more at gmphr.com. The City of Umatilla is an Equal Opportunity Employer. First Review is May 5, 2024.