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Recreation Director Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

City of Alexandria, VA

Recreation Manager I

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$64K - $86K/yr

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 ...

City of Alexandria

Recreation Manager I

Alexandria, VA

$64K - $86K/yr

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 ...

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All JobsRecreation JobsRecreation Director JobsRecreation Director Jobs in Reston, VA

Recreation Director information

See Reston, VA salary details

$30.7K

$74.3K

$144.6K

How much do recreation director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for recreation director in Reston, VA is $74,253.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,900.00 and $95,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Recreation Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Recreation Director, you need a background in recreation management, physical education, or a related field, often supported by a bachelor’s degree and relevant experience. Familiarity with program planning software, budgeting systems, and, in some cases, certifications like CPR/First Aid or Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) are valuable. Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills help you motivate staff, engage participants, and build community relationships. These skills ensure the effective delivery of diverse recreational programs that promote well-being, participation, and operational efficiency.

What is the difference between Recreation Director vs Recreation Coordinator?

AspectRecreation DirectorRecreation Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in recreation, leisure studies, or related field; certifications like CPR/First Aid often preferredSimilar educational background; certifications like CPR/First Aid also common
Work EnvironmentLeads recreation programs, manages staff, oversees budgets, and plans community eventsAssists in program implementation, supports event setup, and handles participant registration
Employer & IndustryMunicipal parks and recreation departments, community centers, resortsCommunity organizations, schools, local government programs

The main difference is that Recreation Directors typically oversee entire programs and staff, while Recreation Coordinators support program delivery and logistics. Both roles require similar credentials and work in related environments, but Recreation Directors hold more responsibility for planning and management.

What Does a Recreation Director Do?

Recreation directors manage special interest programs that include activities like sports, games, and hobbies such as canoeing, rock climbing, camping, and wilderness exploration. This position is relevant in several different areas and for various employers. For example, the city parks department, national parks, private camps, long-term care facilities, nursing homes, schools, and prisons all need qualified recreation directors. As a recreation director, your job duties include designing and scheduling recreational programs, hiring and training staff, and working with clients or guests to ensure programs meet their expectations. You also manage the daily operations of the events to make sure they run smoothly. You need excellent organizational skills and leadership abilities for this job.

How does a Recreation Director typically collaborate with other departments or community organizations?

A Recreation Director frequently works with other municipal departments, local schools, nonprofits, and community organizations to coordinate events, secure venues, and maximize participation in recreational programs. This collaboration ensures that resources are shared efficiently, programming meets community needs, and events run smoothly. Building strong relationships with these partners is crucial for expanding program offerings and accessing additional funding or volunteers. Effective communication and organizational skills are key in managing these partnerships.

What are Recreation Directors?

Recreation Directors are professionals responsible for planning, organizing, and overseeing recreational programs and activities at facilities such as community centers, parks, senior centers, or resorts. They manage staff, coordinate events, and ensure that programs meet the needs and interests of participants. Recreation Directors also handle administrative tasks like budgeting, marketing, and facility management to create engaging and safe environments for all users.
More about Recreation Director jobs
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Recreation Director jobs near you
Recreation Program Leader II - Childcare Director 2025-2026

Recreation Program Leader II - Childcare Director 2025-2026

City of Takoma Park

Takoma Park, MD • On-site

$19.33 - $20.22/hr

Other

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

The City of Takoma Park is looking for an experienced Childcare Director to work for the Recreation Department. The selected candidates will be responsible for planning, leading, and conducting recreation activities for the department's morning and afternoon childcare program at the Takoma Park Recreation Center (7315 New Hampshire Ave) or Takoma Park Community Center (7500 Maple Ave) for youth in kindergarten to fifth grade.The incumbents will be responsible for creating and implementing the daily schedule for participants and the day-to-day leadership of all program staff. The dates for the program will take place over the 2024-2025 Montgomery County Public School Year. The typical work hours vary and can be Monday through Friday, 6:45 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. and/or 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. with occasional half days and school days off throughout the school year. A first review of resumes is expected to begin on July 5, and will remain open until all positions are filled.

The hourly rate for this position is expected to be between $19.33 and $20.22 per hour, and will be offered at a level consistent with the experience and qualifications of the candidate. This position is not subject to membership in the AFSCME union.


First resume review will begin August 1, 2025 but the position will remain open until filled.

Typical Duties of the position include:

  • Providing customer service, direct leadership, and general supervision of a childcare program;

  • Interacting directly with parents, school staff, and Recreation Department staff as required;

  • Maintaining accurate records of attendance, sign-in/out sheets, participant information forms, permission slips, incident reports, program evaluations, and equipment or supplies inventory;

  • Positively enforcing discipline by abiding by the Recreation Department Discipline policy;

  • Providing a clean, safe, and secure environment;

  • Ensure the maintaining and proper operating of equipment and supplies by participants and staff;

  • Informing parents of programs, activities, and any other vital information;

  • Assisting with set-up and break down of the program supplies;

  • Administering first-aid, as necessary;

  • Monitoring participants and ensuring the rules are followed, and that the participants' behavior is appropriate;

  • Drive City vehicles when needed (must pass a Defensive Driving Course);

  • Work closely with the supervisor for staffing concerns, general programming and participant concerns.

Related Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities required to be successful:

  • General knowledge of youth programs;

  • Ability to work outside in various weather conditions;

  • Strong customer service skills;

  • Ability to provide mature leadership, have fun, be flexible, and share enthusiasm;

  • Neat and professional appearance and attitude;

  • Work and communicate effectively with the public, supervisor, and fellow employees;

  • Ability to interact effectively with all age levels, abilities, and cultural backgrounds

  • Must enjoy working with children, youth, and young adults.

  • Ability to follow written and oral instructions.


Minimum qualifications include:

  • Must have reliable transportation

  • Must be at least 21 years of age

  • Experience leading childcare programs

  • Applicants must possess or have the ability to possess Standard CPR/First Aid/AED certifications.

The City of Takoma Park is a small jurisdiction in Montgomery County, Maryland bordering the District of Columbia and Prince George's County. Inhabited by a diverse and politically active population of 17,000 residents, Takoma Park is known for its progressive policies, historic tree-lined neighborhoods, and independent businesses. We are proud to be a workforce of almost 200 full-time and part-time employees that are as diverse as the community we serve. We strive to maintain excellent customer service and responsiveness to our residents and everyone we work with. It is with this in mind that we seek to improve by championing quality and efficiency through a dedicated workforce and cooperative spirit.

The City of Takoma Park is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We strive to be a diverse workforce that is representative of the residents we serve and the area in which we live. We are dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where employees of diverse backgrounds can thrive and make a positive impact in the services we provide


The City of Takoma Park is a small jurisdiction in Montgomery County, Maryland bordering the District of Columbia and Prince George's County. Inhabited by a diverse and politically active population of 17,000 residents, Takoma Park is known for its progressive policies, historic tree-lined neighborhoods, and independent businesses. We are proud to be a workforce of almost 200 full-time and part-time employees that are as diverse as the community we serve. We strive to maintain excellent customer service and responsiveness to our residents and everyone we work with. It is with this in mind that we seek to improve by championing quality and efficiency through a dedicated workforce and cooperative spirit.

The City of Takoma Park is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We strive to be a diverse workforce that is representative of the residents we serve and the area in which we live. We are dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where employees of diverse backgrounds can thrive and make a positive impact in the services we provide.

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