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Outdoor Recreation Program Manager Jobs in Virginia

Recreation Manager I

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$64K - $86K/yr

N/A Recreation Manager I/ GS 19 Sports/ Recreation Services Division Join our Great City The City ... Our parks, programs, and cultural spaces reflect Alexandria's diversity and spirit, and our people ...

Recreation Manager I

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$64K - $86K/yr

Recreation Manager I/ GS 19 Sports/ Recreation Services Division Join our Great City The City of ... Our parks, programs, and cultural spaces reflect Alexandria's diversity and spirit, and our people ...

Showing results 41-60

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 7, 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 Leader IV - Pool Manager

City of Alexandria

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$47K - $63K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


City Of Alexandria (Louisiana) rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

448th of 842 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Recreation Leader IV - Pool Manager Full-Time Position Join our Great City The City of Alexandria is in Northern Virginia bordered by the District of Columbia (Potomac River), Arlington, and Fairfax counties. Once within the original boundary stones that demarked the area of the Nation's Capital, Alexandria is a part of the greater Washington, D.C. metropolitan area

With a population of approximately 157,600 Alexandria is the sixth largest city in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Unique and historic, Alexandria is a place that is experiencing substantial redevelopment appeal and business growth opportunities because of a high market demand for urban living in a quality environment. About one-quarter of the City's 15.47 square miles has been designated as a national or local historic district

The City of Alexandria is an independent City with no county affiliation and derives its governing authority from a Charter granted by the Virginia General Assembly. Virginia is a Dillon Rule state, allowing local governments only the authority granted to them by the Virginia Constitution or by the Virginia General Assembly in the City Charter or in general law. City Council is the governing body, which formulates policies for the administration of the City.

The mayor is chosen on a separate ballot and presides over sessions of the Council. If you are interested in working for the vibrant City of Alexandria, we invite qualified candidates to apply for our Full Time Recreation Leader IV - Pool Manager position for the Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities (RPCA). A Message from the Director Welcome to the City of Alexandria's Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities.

I am excited that you are considering joining our team. Every day, we have the privilege of serving a city that values connection, creativity, and community. Our parks, programs, and cultural spaces reflect Alexandria's diversity and spirit, and our people are the heart of it all.

As you explore opportunities within RPCA, know that you are stepping into a department where teamwork, curiosity, and service guide everything we do. We take pride in our work, we find purpose in our impact, and we celebrate the difference each team member makes. Together, we are building something meaningful for the people of Alexandria, and I am grateful for your interest in being part of it.

Hashim T. Taylor, Director Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities About Us The City of Alexandria's Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities (RPCA) plays a vital role in shaping the quality of life, health, and character of our community. With more than 900 acres of parkland, 100 parks and open spaces, and over 30 recreation, nature, and cultural facilities, RPCA delivers programs and services that connect people to each other and to the world around them.

From Old Town's Waterfront Park to Ben Brenman Park, Chinquapin Park Recreation Center & Aquatics Facility, Patrick Henry Recreation Center, and the Torpedo Factory Art Center, our facilities and programs reflect the City's commitment to inclusion, creativity, and service. RPCA's employees help ensure that every experience, whether a community event, park visit, or recreation program, is safe, welcoming, and enriching for all. Overview: As a Recreation Leader IV Pool Manager, you will have the opportunity to fully lead a team of lifeguards, pool operators, or water safety instructors, and manage an aquatics operation.

This position differs from a Head Lifeguard by providing full supervision of subordinate staff by being the direct supervisor of a team of seasonal lifeguards, pool operators, and/or water safety instructors. Your primary responsibilities will involve supervising aquatics and customer service staff. This position will assist with operations at multiple City aquatics facilities and special events.

You will share the responsibility of being a designated manager on duty for indoor aquatics facilities along with other full time supervisors. During the summer, you will be responsible for an outdoor pool operation. This role will entail support of implementing and managing free and fee-based learn to swim classes, evaluation of staff and programming and assisting in day-to-day operations to include facility maintenance and program administration and planning.

Position description Facility Supervision: Ensure the safety, cleanliness, and compliance of the aquatic facility while maintaining necessary documentation. During the summer, this position will be responsible for the full operations of an outdoor pool. Staff Supervision: Provide supervision, guidance, training, and support to lifeguards, pool operators, instructors, and customer service staff during shifts, fostering a positive work environment.

This position is also the direct supervisor of a team of lifeguards, pool operators, and/or water safety instructors. Direct supervision includes recruiting, hiring, onboarding, training, evaluating, and offboarding employees. Program Supervision: Ensure the safety, skill development, and compliance of the learn to swim program while maintaining necessary documentation.

Seasonally, this position will be responsible for the full implementation of a learn to swim classes. Safety/Training: This position spends a portion of their time lifeguarding, performing pool operator duties, running lifeguard or water safety instructor certification classes, and/or instructing swim lessons. Additional duties include administering first aid, responding to emergencies, ensuring staff members are certified and trained, running in-services, conducting weekly or monthly staff audits, leading lifeguard and/or water safety certification courses.

Customer Service: Deliver exceptional service, address customer concerns, and create a welcoming atmosphere for facility users. This position spends a portion of their time as the supervisor or manager on duty at aquatics facilities. Essential Knowledge, Skills and Abilities The Pool Manager is a supervisory position that provides staff leadership, enforces pool rules and regulations, and oversees the safe enjoyment of public swimming pools.

You should possess leadership skills and experience, knowledge of water safety along with experience operating active public swimming pools and aquatics programs with multiple user groups and activities. You will be responsible for maintaining a safe and clean swimming pool environment. You should lead by example, demonstrate a commitment to excellence, deliver exceptional customer experiences, and be available for flexible work assignments in the early morning, mid-day, evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Minimum & Additional Requirements Associate Degree and four (4) years of experience or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. Additional Requirements: Lifeguard, CPR/AED and First AID deep water certified from American Red Cross or other nationally recognized certification provider. Nationally-recognized pool operation certification.

At least 2 years experience in a supervisory role. Ability to acquire Lifeguard Instructor certification from American Red Cross within 6 months of hire date (Prerequisites for Lifeguard Instructor certification: 1. Minimum age: 17 years 2.

Possess a current Red Cross certificate for Lifeguarding with CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers and First Aid 3. Ability to successfully demonstrate all Lifeguarding and CPR skills including a precourse assessment to perform a water rescue (submerged drowning) extrication single rescuer CPR for 3 minutes.). Preferred Qualifications Aquatic Facility Operator from NRPA and Certified Service Technician for Pools & Spa's

Water Safety Instructor Trainer certification from American Red Cross. Two years of progressively responsible experience in aquatics, including some experience at the level of Recreation Leader III (e.g. Head Lifeguard/Manager on Duty) or equivalent

Customer focused and proven ability to work successfully with others. Experience in leading or implementing aquatics programming. Cash handling and cashier or front desk experience.

Basic knowledge of Microsoft applications such as word, excel, teams and outlook. Experience with recreation registration software. Notes This candidate is required to successfully pass a drug screening and background check.

The City of Alexandria is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in its workforce. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, genetic information, military status, or disability.


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