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Parks And Recreation Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Southport

Parks & Recreation Director

Southport, NC · On-site

$83K - $128K/yr

The Parks and Recreation Director serves as a department head and reports directly to the City Manager. The Director works collaboratively with City staff, the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee ...

Sonomacity

Parks and Recreation Director

Sonoma, CA · On-site

$100 - $130/hr

Parks and Recreation Director City of Sonoma Updated: Summary Direct, manage, oversee and integrate the activities and operations of the Parks and Recreation Department, including management of ...

Nash County

PARKS AND RECREATION DIRECTOR

Nashville, NC · On-site

$77K - $124K/yr

General Statement of Duties The employee in this class performs administrative and management work directing the County's parks and recreation programs. An employee in this class performs a variety ...

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How much do parks and recreation director jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for parks and recreation director in the United States is $24.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by a parks and recreation director, and how can they be addressed?

A Parks and Recreation Director often faces challenges such as budget constraints, balancing diverse community needs, and maintaining aging facilities. Addressing these requires strong leadership, creative problem-solving, and effective community engagement. Building partnerships with local organizations and seeking alternative funding sources, such as grants or sponsorships, can also help overcome resource limitations. Additionally, staying attuned to community feedback and promoting inclusive programming ensures that recreational offerings remain relevant and accessible.

What does a parks and recreation director do?

A Parks and Recreation Director oversees the planning, development, and management of public parks, recreational facilities, and community programs. They are responsible for budgeting, staffing, and ensuring that facilities are safe, well-maintained, and accessible to the public. Directors also develop and implement recreational programs, coordinate with community organizations, and ensure compliance with local and state regulations. Their goal is to promote community wellness and enhance the quality of life through recreational opportunities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a parks and recreation director?

To thrive as a Parks and Recreation Director, you need a background in parks management, public administration, or a related field, often supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree and relevant experience. Familiarity with budgeting software, facility management systems, and possibly certifications like CPRP (Certified Parks and Recreation Professional) are typical. Strong leadership, communication, and community engagement skills help foster teamwork and positive public relations. These abilities are crucial for ensuring effective program delivery, resource management, and community satisfaction.

What is the difference between Parks And Recreation Director vs Recreation Coordinator?

AspectParks And Recreation DirectorRecreation Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's degree in recreation, leisure studies, or related field; often required certificationsAssociate's or bachelor's degree; relevant certifications beneficial
Work EnvironmentOversees entire department, manages staff, plans programsAssists in program implementation, interacts directly with participants
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipal, community, or park agenciesCommunity centers, parks, recreational facilities
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for leadership roles and responsibilitiesCompared for entry-level or support roles

The Parks And Recreation Director typically holds a leadership position, overseeing the entire department, managing staff, and planning strategic initiatives. The Recreation Coordinator usually supports program delivery, working directly with participants. Both roles require relevant education and certifications, but the Director's role involves broader responsibilities and higher-level decision-making.

More about Parks And Recreation Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Parks And Recreation Director jobs? Cities with the most Parks And Recreation Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Parks And Recreation jobs? The most popular types of Parks And Recreation jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Parks And Recreation Director jobs? The top employers for Parks And Recreation Director jobs are:
What states have the most Parks And Recreation Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Parks And Recreation Director jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Parks And Recreation Director jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Parks And Recreation Director jobs are:
Parks And Recreation Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Parks And Recreation Director job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, and 23% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,458 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Parks & Recreation Director

City of Southport, NC

Southport, NC • On-site

$83K - $128K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 hours ago

Job description

Salary: $83,211.01 - $128,144.95 Annually
Location : 1029 N. Howe Street, Southport, NC
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 00080
Department: Parks & Rec
Division: Parks & Recreation
Opening Date: 07/14/2026
Closing Date: 8/12/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
The City of Southport operates under the Council-Manager form of government. The Parks and Recreation Director serves as a department head and reports directly to the City Manager. The Director works collaboratively with City staff, the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee, community organizations, volunteers, and partner agencies to develop, implement, and enhance recreational programs, facilities, and services that align with the City's goals and priorities.
This is a unique opportunity for an experienced and visionary leader to rebuild and shape the future of parks and recreation in the City of Southport. Following a department reorganization, the successful candidate will have the rare opportunity to build a department from the ground up by recruiting staff, developing programs, establishing operational procedures, cultivating community partnerships, and creating a long-term vision for recreational services that enrich the quality of life for residents and visitors.
The Parks and Recreation Director will lead the strategic planning, development, implementation, and administration of the City's parks, recreational facilities, community programs, special events, and future recreational initiatives. Working closely with the City Manager, elected officials, advisory committees, community organizations, volunteers, and residents, the Director will establish a culture of innovation, accountability, customer service, and community engagement.
The ideal candidate is an energetic, enthusiastic, and innovative leader who demonstrates initiative, embraces new ideas, and actively seeks opportunities to expand programs, strengthen community partnerships, and improve services. The successful candidate will be motivated to build and grow a thriving Parks and Recreation Department by embracing innovation, expanding opportunities, taking a proactive approach to serving the community, and continually improving services.
Why Join the City of Southport?
This position offers a rare opportunity to leave a lasting impact on one of North Carolina's most vibrant coastal communities. The next Parks and Recreation Director will have the support of City leadership to develop a modern, innovative department that reflects the needs and interests of residents while creating exceptional recreational opportunities for generations to come.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Plan, organize, direct, and evaluate all Parks and Recreation programs, services, facilities, and operations.
  • Recruit and build a high-performing Parks and Recreation team through thoughtful hiring, onboarding, coaching, and employee development.
  • Train, supervise, coach, mentor, motivate, and evaluate departmental staff and volunteers while fostering a culture of accountability and professional growth.
  • Develop departmental operating procedures, performance standards, and organizational structure.
  • Evaluate existing parks, facilities, and recreational assets to identify opportunities for improvement and future investment.
  • Establish short-term priorities and a long-range strategic vision for the department.
  • Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, teamwork, and exceptional customer service.
  • Develop new recreational programs, events, and community activities that meet the evolving needs of residents and community members.
  • Take initiative in identifying opportunities to improve parks, facilities, programs, and customer service.
  • Build partnerships with schools, civic organizations, nonprofits, businesses, and volunteers to expand recreational opportunities.
  • Develop annual departmental goals, measurable performance objectives, and strategic initiatives.
  • Prepare, administer, and monitor departmental budgets while actively pursuing grants, sponsorships, and other funding opportunities.
  • Coordinate facility rentals, athletic programs, youth and senior activities, camps, and special events.
  • Ensure parks and recreational facilities are safe, clean, attractive, and well maintained.
  • Develop policies, procedures, and operational improvements that promote efficiency and excellent customer service.
  • Plan and oversee park improvements, facility enhancement projects, and future capital improvement initiatives.
  • Promote departmental programs through marketing, social media, public outreach, and community engagement.
  • Respond professionally to citizen inquiries, concerns, and requests.
  • Work collaboratively with City departments, community organizations, and advisory boards.
  • Stay informed of current trends and best practices in parks and recreation and implement innovative ideas when appropriate.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
  • Experience leading organizational change or building new programs is highly desirable.
  • Ability to inspire and motivate employees through periods of growth and organizational development.
  • Strong fiscal management with demonstrated ability to prioritize limited resources.
  • Demonstrated ability to take initiative, solve problems, and work independently.
  • Ability to think creatively and develop innovative recreational opportunities.
  • Excellent communication and public relations skills.
  • Ability to build positive relationships with staff, volunteers, community organizations, and the public.
  • Strong project management and organizational planning abilities.
  • Knowledge of budgeting, grant administration, and municipal operations.
  • Ability to effectively prioritize multiple projects while maintaining attention to detail.

Desired Characteristics
The successful candidate will demonstrate:
  • Enthusiasm for serving the community.
  • A proactive approach to problem-solving.
  • Initiative in identifying opportunities rather than waiting for direction.
  • Creativity and innovation in program development.
  • A positive, energetic, and team-oriented attitude.
  • Strong leadership through collaboration and accountability.
  • Passion for creating memorable experiences for residents and visitors.
  • Commitment to continuous improvement and professional development.
  • Comfortable leading organizational change and building successful teams from the ground up.

Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Parks and Recreation, Public Administration, Recreation Management, Sports Management, or a related field preferred.
Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) certification is preferred or the ability to obtain certification within one year of hire.
Five years of progressively responsible experience in parks and recreation administration, municipal government, or a closely related field, including at least three years of supervisory and budget management experience.
Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
This full-time position qualifies for our complete benefit package. Please visit the City's benefits page for details.

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