Job Description
Statewide Outdoor Recreation Planning Coordinator
This full-time position in the Division of Outdoor Recreation (DOR), within the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), reports to the Trails and Planning Program Director.
The role supports the Outdoor Recreation Planning Assistance (ORPA) program, which provides funding and technical assistance for planning, feasibility studies, and NEPA elements to enhance outdoor recreation opportunities, particularly in rural communities.
The coordinator will oversee planning efforts, facilitate collaboration among stakeholders (e.g., land managers, user groups), and connect communities with DOR staff.
Additionally, this position will support the Outdoor Adventure Commission, the Outdoor Recreation Initiative, and programs guided by the Utah Trails Forum, as capacity allows.
Responsibilities
As the Statewide Outdoor Recreation Planning Coordinator, your primary duties include :
- Provide administrative and technical support for ORPA and the Outdoor Recreation Initiative.
- Assist in developing statewide and community-based motorized and non-motorized trails, river access, and other outdoor recreation infrastructure.
- Serve rural communities and tribes by offering planning and technical assistance for community-led outdoor recreation projects.
- Develop and maintain a statewide trails database and write planning documents, including the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP).
- Review consultant work, advise on long-range planning, and compile relevant data for outdoor recreation initiatives.
- Assist in purchasing and procurement processes to hire external work while providing project management oversight.
- Organize and facilitate workshops, meetings, and conferences, both in person and virtually.
- Build networks and strategic partnerships to enhance outdoor recreation efforts and funding.
- Staff the Outdoor Adventure Commission and support the State’s strategic recreation planning.
Travel Requirements
Occasional in-state travel and flexible work hours, including some early mornings or evenings, will be required. This position supports some remote work, but candidates must be Utah-based.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in outdoor recreation planning or a related field (e.g., forestry, landscape architecture, natural resource management, urban planning, etc.
equivalent experience in outdoor recreation planning or related fields. A Master’s degree may substitute for up to one year of experience.
- Strong project management, communication, and group facilitation skills.
- Experience with general and outdoor recreation planning, trail feasibility studies, and conflict resolution.
- Enthusiasm for outdoor recreation and a collaborative work ethic.
- Understanding of Geospatial Information Systems (GIS) and ArcGIS Online.
Why You Should Join Our Team :
Enjoy a challenge working on a large variety of subjects for a newly formed agency. You will have the opportunity to support recreational activities and events for the general public to enjoy.
From the work you do to the people you meet, the Division of Outdoor Recreation will keep you on your toes and fully engaged in your work.
Additionally, the State of Utah offers great benefits and generous paid time off so you can spend more time with your family and have a positive work-life balance.
To learn more about the generous benefit package the State of Utah offers, click here.
About Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation :
In 2022, the Utah State Legislature recognized the growing importance of the outdoors to Utah's economic prosperity and quality of life and created the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation (DOR).
As part of the Utah Department of Natural Resources, DOR combines the nation’s first Office of Outdoor Recreation with other state recreation management programs, including Utah’s Boating Program, Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Program, and recreation law enforcement officers.
DOR is committed to ensuring every Utahn can live a healthy and active lifestyle through outdoor recreation and access to natural space.
DOR’s areas of focus include recreational access; safety and education; stewardship and sustainable visitation; and economic growth and opportunity through outdoor recreation.
For more information, visit recreation.utah.gov.