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Parks 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 recreation director jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for parks 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 is the difference between Parks Recreation Director vs Parks Recreation Supervisor?

AspectParks Recreation DirectorParks Recreation Supervisor
ResponsibilitiesOversees entire department, strategic planning, policy developmentManages daily operations, supervises staff, implements programs
CredentialsBachelor’s degree in recreation, parks, or related field; experience in managementBachelor’s degree or relevant experience; often requires supervisory experience
Work EnvironmentAdministrative offices, community meetings, planning sessionsRecreation centers, parks, outdoor facilities, community events

The Parks Recreation Director typically holds a higher-level leadership role, focusing on strategic planning and department oversight, while the Parks Recreation Supervisor manages daily operations and staff. Both roles require relevant education and experience, but the Director's position involves broader responsibilities and decision-making authority.

What does a parks recreation director do?

A Parks Recreation Director oversees the planning, development, and management of recreational programs and public parks within a city or community. They are responsible for organizing activities, managing staff, maintaining facilities, and ensuring all programs meet community needs and safety standards. Additionally, they often work with local governments, community organizations, and the public to enhance recreational opportunities and improve park amenities.

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

To thrive as a Parks Recreation Director, you need expertise in program development, facility management, budgeting, and a background in parks, recreation, or public administration—often supported by a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree. Familiarity with recreation management software, facility scheduling systems, and certification from the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) are typically valuable. Leadership, strong communication, and community engagement skills set top candidates apart in this role. These skills ensure the effective delivery of recreational programs, community satisfaction, and efficient management of parks resources.

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

Parks Recreation Directors often encounter challenges such as balancing limited budgets, managing diverse community needs, and maintaining facilities within resource constraints. Effective communication with staff, community members, and local government is crucial for setting priorities and aligning resources. Additionally, successful directors frequently collaborate with external partners and seek alternative funding sources, such as grants or sponsorships, to enhance programming and facility improvements. Staying adaptable and proactive in addressing community feedback helps ensure that parks and recreation services remain inclusive and relevant.

How to become a parks recreation director?

To become a parks recreation director, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in recreation management, public administration, or a related field, along with several years of experience in parks and recreation or community programs. Leadership skills, knowledge of local government operations, and certifications such as CPR or first aid are also valuable. Some positions may require a master's degree or additional certifications depending on the size of the organization.
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Parks Recreation Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Parks Recreation Director job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote 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 14 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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