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Park Trails Field Supervisor

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Park Trails Field Supervisor

Salary

$7,954.00 - $9,638.00 Monthly

Location

City of Bellingham, WA

Job Type

Full Time

Job Number

26-PARKTRAILSFIELDSUPERVISOR

Department

Parks & Recreation

Division

Park Operations

Opening Date

01/02/2026

Closing Date

2/2/2026 8:30 AM Pacific

FLSA

Exempt

Bargaining Unit

231

+ Description

+ Benefits

+ Questions

Nature of Work

Are you ready to lead a dedicated team that maintains our city’s 86-mile trail system? The Park Trails Field Supervisor plays a key role at ensuring safe and sustainable access, oversees the annual trail maintenance plan, and contributes to the quality of life for all Bellingham residents.

This position combines supervisory and technical knowledge with the implementation of the maintenance, restoration, repair, and improvement of the park trail system supporting a wide variety of tasks and functions. The park trail system is located in right-of-way areas, open space, parks, and other public spaces. Plans, schedules, assigns and supervises the work of the trails team; evaluates quality and quantity of work, and conducts annual performance appraisals. Park trails functions include trail maintenance, vegetation control, wetland mitigation, clearing debris, bridge/boardwalk/fence repairs, mitigation of vandalism, drainage work, and other related maintenance or repair. Develops and provides training for operational programs and ensures staff meet standards and service levels. Develops, recommends, and implements short and long-range trails projects or objectives and evaluates effectiveness. Works closely with the Park Operations Manager and Park Specialist in service of Departmental goals. Represents the Park’s Department as a subject matter expert for other City departments, providing professional recommendations and written reports.

SALARY AND BENEFITS INFORMATION:

The current full salary range for this position is $7,954/month - $9,638/month. Employees receive step increases annually in accordance with the Teamsters Collective Bargaining Agreement (https://cob.org/about/employment/labor-agreements-pay-schedule) and City policy.

The City places new employees within the published salary range based on qualifications and professional experience as listed on the application material, in accordance with City policy. Candidates who exceed the minimum experience requirements shall be given credit for advanced step placement at the rate of one additional pay step for each two full years of directly related or equivalent professional experience beyond the minimum requirements. Candidates who meet minimum qualifications or have experience that is not directly related or in a lower-level position will be placed at step one in the salary range. For positions that require a bachelor’s degree, one additional step may be granted for applicants with a master’s degree in a related field when the master’s degree is not required to meet minimum qualifications.

For internal candidates, placement within the range is based on City Pay Placement Procedures.

At the City of Bellingham, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that helps you thrive in both your career and personal life. Join our team and enjoy peace of mind knowing that you and your loved ones are well cared for. Here’s a closer look at the outstanding benefits that come with being part of our team. You can find more details on our employment benefits page (https://cob.org/about/employment/benefits) and labor agreements page. (https://cob.org/about/employment/labor-agreements-pay-schedule)

+ 10 hours of vacation leave per month, with increased accrual over time

+ 12 paid holidays + 1 floating holiday per year

+ 8 hours of sick leave accrued monthly

+ Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and their families

+ Life insurance and long-term disability coverage

+ Flexible spending accounts and medical insurance opt-out program

+ Access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

+ Washington State Retirement plan (DRS) for retirement security

+ Optional 457 deferred compensation (Retirement Savings Plan) with employer match

Leave accruals are based on 1.0 FTE, accruals are pro-rated if part-time and require employees to be in paid status at least 120 hours/month.

Closing Date/Time: Mon. 2/2/26 8:30 AM Pacific Time

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

+ Supervises and coordinates the Trails program area within the Park Operations Division. Develops, plans, schedules, coordinates, monitors and recommends a wide variety of trail maintenance tasks including construction, repair, wetland mitigation and restoration. Effectively utilizes maintenance management software to conduct work planning, schedule work activity, manage assets, track service requests, work orders and projects to maintain and maximize efficiency of program areas. Refers major or controversial requests/issues to Park Operations Manager for review. Works with other divisions, departments, and agencies to facilitate and coordinate services, as appropriate. Maintains Safety Data Sheets for work group.

+ Supervises the work of assigned Park Technicians, Park Specialist, Park Workers, and seasonal staff. Hires, trains, assigns works, develops performance standards and monitors performance. Conducts pre-disciplinary investigations; recommends and delivers corrective action as appropriate. Reviews and approves employee timesheets and oversees scheduling. Responsible for training, motivating, and supervising the work team and establishing a system of effective communication and cooperation. Trains and orients employees on program area techniques and methods, work assignments, equipment operation, policies, best practices and procedures. Responsible for safety training and monitors compliance of employees with safety rules.

+ Develops, recommends, and implements program goals and objectives, subject to management approval. Evaluates, recommends and implements appropriate techniques, equipment and technology to increase effectiveness and efficiency of trail work and operations. Develops and recommends policies and procedures for program area.

+ Performs scheduled and unscheduled inspections of trail corridors including greenways and open space properties. Monitors for hazards and encroachments. Works with other City departments to develop drainage and erosion control methods. Troubleshoots and resolves issues within scope of authority or coordinates with appropriate entities.

+ Oversees ordering, inventory, maintenance and allocation of program supplies, vehicles and equipment. Coordinates with Park Specialist and other Division Supervisors to resolve conflicts involving scheduling, use, condition and availability of equipment. Obtains quotes for materials/supplies and coordinates and schedules equipment maintenance.

+ Approves expenditures for equipment and materials, monitors budget for program area and provides recommendations for management review. Implements and monitors approved budget. Prepares and submits reports to manager and outside advisory boards.

+ Works with other City staff, departments, and outside agencies to comply with all applicable local, state and federal regulations, policies, guidelines, reporting requirements.

+ Designs, plans, and determines scope of work, materials, time and cost projections and implements renovation and rehabilitation projects for Trails program area. Assists Park Operations Manager with managing contracts for construction of trails, and coordinates with outside contractors.

+ Investigates and responds to community members’ complaints, information requests and issues in a courteous and prompt manner.

+ Conducts, attends, and participates in a variety of team or departmental meetings.

+ Monitors and reviews status of Integrated Pest Management Program. Uses system of guidelines for best management practices.

+ Completes necessary documentation for trail inventory, maintains use records, and records and reports trail maintenance statistics to Park Operations Manager.

+ Uses GIS and other mapping/information systems to identify and track trail assets in City controlled areas and works continually to update boundary marking and mapping. Composes correspondence, reports, and other documents as necessary.

ADDITIONAL WORK PERFORMED:

+ Acts as resource to management and employees regarding assigned program area. Keeps current in new developments in the parks and recreation field through professional memberships, attending conferences and networking with professionals.

+ May occasionally perform physical activities such as moving, lifting, pushing, and carrying equipment, tools or supplies for programs or activities as needed.

+ Serves as back up for other Park Operations staff, as assigned.

+ Performs other related work of a similar nature or level. Completes special projects or analysis as requested.

Physical ability to perform essential functions of the job, including:

+ Frequently operate a computer and other office machinery such as a keyboard, mouse, phone, and copy machine;

+ Frequently communicate accurate information and ideas with others;

+ Operate a motor vehicle;

+ Stand or sit for long periods of time;

+ Move between work sites, including over irregular terrain;

+ Occasionally perform physical activities such as digging;

+ Occasionally lift and transport irregular objects weighing up to fifty (50) pounds.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

Work is performed in an office setting and out-of-doors including exposure to noise, fumes, construction environment and trail traffic hazards. This position has frequent exposure to outdoor weather conditions. Possibility of exposure to hostile and offensive language from the public. Employees are required to use appropriate safety equipment and follow standard safety practices. May experience frequent interruptions.

Experience and Training

+ High school diploma or equivalent.

+ Four (4) years of experience in grounds maintenance, recreational trails, park management, or closely related field.

+ Two (2) years supervisory or lead experience required.

+ College or vocational coursework in natural resource management, park administration or related field preferred.

+ Experience with maintenance management software preferred.

An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to provide the applicant with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the essential functions of the job will be considered.

Necessary Special Requirements

+ Verification of ability to work in the United States by date of hire.

+ Valid Washington State driver’s license and good driving record. Applicant must submit a three- year driving record prior to hire.

+ Employment contingent upon passing a criminal convictions check, child and adult abuse records check, and local background check (See fair hiring practices below).

+ Willingness to attend evening or daytime meetings, training, and other functions.

+ Ability to secure and maintain a valid First Aid and CPR certification within 12 months of hire.

+ Ability to secure and maintain Certified Erosion Control and Sediment Control Lead Training (CESCL) Training with 12 months of hire.

+ Ability to secure a Commercial Driver’s License within 18 months of hire and to maintain throughout employment. Must pass CDL-related drug and alcohol testing throughout term of employment.

+ Must attend and complete Pacific Northwest Resource Management school years 1 and 2 or equivalent certification approved by the Department within 4 years of hire.

Selection Process

You are encouraged to print a copy of this job announcement for your reference as the process moves along

As part of the application process, a cover letter is required.

Within the cover letter, please answer the following questions:

+ Please indicate why you are interested in this position, and why this position is the next right step for you in your career.

+ Provide a brief summary of your education, experience and qualifications for this position.

Please ensure your application is complete and all required information has been provided. Standard completeness means all application fields (contact information, personal information, education, work experience, references, and supplemental questions). Application materials should comprehensively document your experience and skills related to the position responsibilities and experience/training requirements. As part of the City’s commitment to reducing bias in the hiring process, Human Resources redacts personally identifiable information for reviewers. Only the documents listed as required will be reviewed.

Interviews for the most qualified candidates are tentatively scheduled for February 18 and 19, 2026. Invitations to participate in the Interview process will be sent via e-mail on or around February 11, 2026.

Please Note: Candidates will receive updates regarding application status via email. Please be sure to check your email frequently, including your spam folders for messages filtered by your email providers.

Equal Opportunity:

The City of Bellingham is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not make decisions on the basis of an individual's race, religion, creed, color, national origin, sex, marital status, age (40+), disability, retaliation, sexual orientation or gender identity, honorably discharged veteran or military status, status as a victim of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking, use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, or any other basis prohibited by local, state, or federal law. All are encouraged to apply for employment.

Fair Hiring Practices

+ The City provides individuals who have been arrested or convicted of a criminal offense an equal and fair opportunity to obtain employment.

+ The City will not inquire about an applicant's criminal history until after a conditional job offer has been made.

+ The City will disregard the prior arrest and conviction record of an otherwise qualified individual unless the offense is directly related to the job position for which the individual has applied.

+ The City will notify an otherwise qualified applicant about a potentially disqualifying conviction and give the applicant an opportunity to submit information regarding the accuracy of the criminal records as well as evidence of mitigation or rehabilitation, as appropriate.

There are many good reasons for working at the City of Bellingham. The work is rewarding and you have an opportunity to serve your community. Another good reason is the great benefits that the City offers its employees. See our benefits section (https://www.cob.org/employment/pages/benefits.aspx) for additional information.

This position is represented by the Teamsters 231 bargaining unit. Specific benefit information including Holidays, Vacation Accruals, Health, Dental and Vision Plans with cost sharing and Deferred Compensation Match can be found in the Teamsters 231 labor agreement (https://www.cob.org/employment/Pages/labor-agreements-pay-schedule.aspx) .

This position is covered by the State of Washington Department of Retirement Systems PERS plan. PERS requires mandatory employee and City contributions. Please visit the DRS website (http://www.drs.wa.gov/) for more information on PERS.

01

Thank you for your interest in this position at the City of Bellingham! To ensure a consistent review, only the City of Bellingham job application and required supplemental documents will be reviewed. Cover letters and resumes are not reviewed unless they are required as part of the process. When applying for this position, you must thoroughly complete each section of your application, and provide a thorough response to each of the supplemental questions. Please do not indicate "see resume" or copy content that is unrelated to the position being applied for from your resume when answering these questions.

Have you read and understood the information listed above?

+ Yes

+ No

02

As part of your application, a cover letter is required. Have you attached your cover letter?

+ Yes, my cover letter is attached for your review.

+ No, my cover letter is not attached. I understand I will not be considered for employment.

03

Do you have a high school diploma or equivalent?

+ Yes

+ No

04

Do you have two (2) years supervisory or lead experience? How We Count Work Experience: Your experience must be equal to full-time paid work. If you worked part-time, we’ll calculate your experience based on the total number of hours you worked in a year. For example, if you worked 10 hours per week for 12 months, that equals 3 months of full-time experience (10 hrs x 52 weeks= 520 hrs/173.33 full time hrs per month = 3 months).

+ Yes

+ No

05

Do you have four (4) years of experience in grounds maintenance, recreational trails, park management, or closely related field? How We Count Work Experience: Your experience must be equal to full-time paid work. If you worked part-time, we’ll calculate your experience based on the total number of hours you worked in a year. For example, if you worked 10 hours per week for 12 months, that equals 3 months of full-time experience (10 hrs x 52 weeks= 520 hrs/173.33 full time hrs per month = 3 months).

+ Yes

+ No

06

If you answered no to any of the questions above, do you have an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to provide the applicant with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the essential functions of the job? Please describe in detail below.

07

Do you have college or vocational coursework in natural resource management, park administration or related field? NOTE: This is preferred. Please describe below.

08

Do you have experience with maintenance management software? NOTE: This is preferred. Please describe below.

09

Are you willing and able to attend evening or daytime meetings, training, and other functions?

+ Yes

+ No

10

Are you willing and able to secure and maintain a valid First Aid and CPR certification within 12 months of hire?

+ Yes

+ No

11

Are you willing and abie to secure and maintain Certified Erosion Control and Sediment Control Lead Training (CESCL) Training within 12 months of hire?

+ Yes

+ No

12

Are you willing and able to secure a Commercial Driver’s License within 18 months of hire and to maintain throughout employment? Must pass CDL-related drug and alcohol testing throughout term of employment.

+ Yes

+ No

13

Are you willing and able to attend and complete Pacific Northwest Resource Management school years 1 and 2 or equivalent certification approved by the Department within 4 years of hire?

+ Yes

+ No

14

Describe your experience as a supervisor, including the scope of your responsibilities and the leadership qualities you believe are most important in supporting a successful team

15

Please describe your experience developing, planning, scheduling, coordinating, monitoring and recommending a wide variety of trail maintenance tasks including construction, repair, wetland mitigation and restoration.

Required Question

Employer

City of Bellingham

Address

104 West Magnolia Street Bellingham, Washington, 98225

Phone

360-778-8228

Website

http://www.cob.org/employment

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