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Outdoor Recreation Program Manager Jobs in Virginia

... Recreation program that may include special events, recreation information/resources, command ... space management, bowling, Library, Liberty, grab-n-go, movies, and outdoor recreation.

... Recreation program that may include special events, recreation information/resources, command ... green space management, bowling, Library, Liberty, grab-n-go, movies, and outdoor recreation.

... Recreation program that may include special events, recreation information/resources, command ... space management, bowling, Library, Liberty, grab-n-go, movies, and outdoor recreation. This ...

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Outdoor Recreation Program Manager information

See Virginia salary details

$38.2K

$106.5K

$155.7K

How much do outdoor recreation program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for outdoor recreation program manager in Virginia is $106,539.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,800.00 and $131,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Outdoor Recreation Program Manager vs Outdoor Recreation Specialist?

AspectOutdoor Recreation Program ManagerOutdoor Recreation Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in recreation, parks, or related field; certifications like CPR, First AidOften requires similar degrees and certifications, but may have less emphasis on management certifications
Work EnvironmentOversees programs, manages staff, plans activities, and coordinates resourcesConducts outdoor activities, leads groups, and provides instruction or guidance
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by parks departments, recreation centers, outdoor adventure companiesCommonly employed in outdoor education, adventure guiding, and community recreation

The main difference is that the Outdoor Recreation Program Manager focuses on overseeing and managing recreation programs, while the Outdoor Recreation Specialist primarily leads and conducts outdoor activities and instruction. Both roles require relevant certifications and work in similar environments, but the manager role involves more administrative responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an outdoor recreation program manager?

To thrive as an Outdoor Recreation Program Manager, you need expertise in program development, risk management, and outdoor leadership, often backed by a degree in recreation management or a related field. Familiarity with scheduling software, budgeting tools, and certifications such as Wilderness First Aid or CPR are typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and leadership abilities help in coordinating teams and ensuring participant safety. These skills ensure the successful delivery of safe, engaging outdoor experiences and efficient program operations.

What are some common challenges faced by outdoor recreation program managers, and how can they overcome them?

Outdoor Recreation Program Managers often navigate challenges such as unpredictable weather, participant safety, and resource management. They must be adept at contingency planning and risk assessment to ensure activities proceed smoothly and safely. Effective communication and collaboration with staff, volunteers, and external partners are crucial for adapting to last-minute changes and maintaining high-quality experiences. Staying current with industry best practices and fostering a culture of safety and flexibility helps managers overcome these challenges and succeed in their role.

What does an outdoor recreation program manager do?

An Outdoor Recreation Program Manager is responsible for planning, organizing, and overseeing outdoor activities and programs, such as hiking, camping, canoeing, or team-building events. They coordinate logistics, manage staff and volunteers, ensure participant safety, and may also handle budgeting and marketing for programs. Their work involves working closely with community organizations, schools, or public agencies to promote outdoor engagement and environmental stewardship. Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills are essential for success in this role.
What are popular job titles related to Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs in Virginia? For Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Outdoor Recreation Program Manager job openings:

Recreation Program Manager - OST/Federal Foods

City of Richmond

Richmond, VA

$76K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Are you Richmond R.E.A.D.Y. Respect. Equity

Accountability. Diversity...YOU!!. This is an EXCITING time to Join the City of Richmond

We are committed to nurturing talent, fostering growth opportunities, and building strong connections within our workforce. As we continue to make strides to becoming the employer of choice, we are thrilled about the below employee benefit enhancements: Virginia Retirement System (VRS) Language Incentive Referral Bonus Tuition Assistance Program Description The City of Richmond Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities (PRCF) seeks a highly skilled Recreation Program Manager to oversee a diverse and complex portfolio of recreation services including Out of School Time, and Supplemental Nutrition Programs. This position requires an understanding of the distinct programmatic, staffing, safety, and accessibility needs of each service area, while ensuring consistency with departmental goals, community priorities, and industry best practices.

The Recreation Program Manager will provide leadership, operational oversight, and strategic direction to ensure high-quality, inclusive, and safe programs that serve residents across the lifespan and across varying abilities. Duties include but are not limited to Out of School Time Develop, implement, and oversee comprehensive Out of School Time programs across multiple sites that promote positive youth development, safety, and engagement. Create and manage programs that provide safe, supervised spaces during out-of-school hours, evenings, weekends, and summer months Train staff to effectively address the behavioral, social, and emotional needs of youth participants, utilizing restorative practices, trauma-informed care, and youth-centered approaches.

Recruit, train, supervise, schedule, and evaluate full-time, part-time, and seasonal staff across multiple recreation disciplines. Foster a culture of professionalism, accountability, customer service, and continuous improvement Managing division budget, approving expenditures, assisting with budget preparations, identifying revenue sources, managing revenues, funds and grants Managing personnel, directing workflow, and developing performance measures and work plans Overseeing correspondence Working with Richmond Public Schools, the Office of Children and Families, and partnering organization for access to schools, transportation, school meals, and auxiliary youth development programs Collaborating with fellow Recreation Program Managers to create/manage community center-based programs. Working with Therapeutic Recreation Supervisor to ensure inclusion and ADA compliance.

Overseeing multiple programs and locations Assessing and evaluating program effectiveness and efficiencies Community Engagement Outreach Supplemental Nutrition Preparing and submitting documents for bid solicitations with Procurement Services Preparing and submitting SFSP and CACFP application Attending Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) Supplemental Nutrition Programmatic Trainings Managing personnel, directing workflow, and developing performance measures and work plans Selecting/recruiting/hiring temporary staff to work as Site Monitors Recruiting meal sites Training all site staff, and Federal Food staff on program operation Coordinating with meal service providers and program participants to ensure compliance with USDA, VDH, and VDOE policies and regulations. Managing contracts and service delivery Reviewing, preparing, and submitting reports Completing claims for USDA/VDOE reimbursement of City funds and expenditures Maintaining records Qualifications, Special Certifications and Licenses MINIMUM TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE: Bachelor's degree in parks and recreation, business/public administration, or a related area 5 years of professional recreational programming and/or parks or facilities management experience. 2 years of supervisory experience.

An equivalent combination of training and experience (as approved by the department) may be used to meet the minimum qualifications of the classification LICENSING, CERTIFICATIONS, and/or OTHER SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Assignments may require a background check. Assignment may require a valid Driver's License with a satisfactory driving record with a valid Commonwealth of Virginia Driver's License within 30 days of hire. Assignment may require a current First Aid/CPR certification.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: TYPICAL KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: These are a representative sample; position assignments may vary. Knowledge (some combination of the following): Parks and recreational programs and practices Management principles involved in planning, resource allocation, and leadership techniques Sports programming and aquatic programming for youth as well as senior citizens Grant applications and the bidding/procurement process Training tools and opportunities to recommend for staff members' development Finance and budgeting principles Applicable federal, state, and local laws, codes, and regulations Safety regulations and procedures USDA Food Nutrition Programs (e.g. SFSP, CACFP, and NSLP) Modern trends, principles, and practices of recreation programming including age-appropriate and physically-challenging activities Software and web-based applications such as Microsoft Office Suite, RAPIDS, recreation software programs such as RecTrac, graphic design programs (e.g

Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, and Photoshop Lightroom), CHAAMPS Online System, Southeastern Security Consultants Inc. Database, and NEOGOV Standard office equipment such as computers, printers, copiers, and presentation equipment Festival and event standards, procedures, and trends Marketing standards, procedures, and trends Greater Richmond Area layout and needs Skills (some combination of the following): Working with groups and individuals to coordinate and accomplish goals Active listening Negotiating with and persuading others Managing, motivating, and directing staff Training and supervising personnel Monitoring and assessing performance of self, staff, and others Customer service to internal and external customers Recruiting, interviewing, and selecting personnel Translating recreational interests and community needs into effective programs and services Researching best practices for required job functions Oral and written communication Preparing budgets and controlling expenditure of funds Abilities (some combination of the following): Present information to large groups Work effectively with citizens from diverse areas and backgrounds Organize Americans with Disabilities Act Requirements Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. Prospective and current employees are invited to discuss accommodations.

ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS: Working conditions may include exposure to travel to other locations within the City of Richmond as well as outside of the City of Richmond; exposure to hazardous physical conditions such as mechanical parts, electrical currents, vibrations, etc.; atmospheric conditions such as fumes, odors, dusts, gases, and poor ventilation; inadequate lighting; intense noise; and environmental hazards such as disruptive people, imminent danger, and a threatening environment. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT: Due to the nature of work assignments, incumbents must be able to perform detailed work on multiple, concurrent tasks, with frequent interruptions and under time constraint. The essential duties of this classification may require the ability to regularly talk, hear, and see; frequently work with one's fingers, walk, and use repetitive motions; and occasionally stoop, crouch, reach, stand, kneel, lift, grasp, push, pull, and lift

In terms of the physical strength to perform the essential duties, this classification is considered to be light work (exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects), but may differ based on area of focus. * Internal use: HR Generalist to review. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement The City of Richmond provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

The City of Richmond is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, the City of Richmond will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided with reasonable accommodations. If you require reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to participate in the job application and/or the interview process, please contact Veronica Kenner, by email at HR-ADA@rva.gov

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. The City of Richmond Values Veterans. We are an official V3 Certified Company.

The City of Richmond is a proud partner with the US Army Partnership for Your Success PaYS Program.