El Paso County is seeking an Executive Director-Parks for Colorado’s most populous county with over 750,000 residents and spanning over 2,100 square miles. El Paso County is home to Colorado Springs—the county seat and the state’s second-largest city—and the iconic 14,115-foot Pikes Peak. The county's unique blend of natural beauty, access to both outdoor recreation and metropolitan amenities, and over 280 days of sunshine each year make it one of the most sought-after places to live in Colorado.

EL PASO COUNTY PARKS DEPARTMENT

The Parks Department serves over 750,000 residents and over 25 million visitors per year across a comprehensive park system that includes 7 regional parks, 6 community parks, 6 regional trails, 20 open spaces, and 4 dog parks—all guided by an ambitious parks masterplan that encompasses over 8,000 acres and over 140 miles of trails. The Recreation and Cultural Services Division manages two nationally recognized nature centers, a financially sustainable County Fair that attracts more than 25,000 participants over 8 days, and a variety of outdoor recreational programs. The Department operates with a budget of $8.5 million for 2026 and employs 46 full-time and 35 seasonal employees.

WHY APPLY

This is an excellent opportunity for an entrepreneurial leader to elevate an outstanding county park system in one of the American West’s premier locations. The Executive Director will lead a stable, professional staff committed to public service and passionate about promoting a healthy, outdoor lifestyle. The organization values strategic planning and visionary leadership while actively supporting a healthy work-life balance for its employees.

El Paso County’s comprehensive park system highlights the rugged natural beauty of south-central Colorado through a strong emphasis on preservation, outdoor recreation, and year-round enjoyment across diverse seasons. The landscape spans mountainous terrain in the west to expansive open-space plains in the east.  The county seat, Colorado Springs, offers a full range of urban services and amenities with easy access to wide open spaces, while surrounding communities provide opportunities for a more rural lifestyle.

More Information: GMP Consultants is assisting El Paso County with this search. Learn more at gmphr.com. El Paso County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. First Review is February 15, 2026.

View the full position profile, job description, and benefits at gmphr.com.