Recreation Manager

Performs mid-to senior-level workplanning, organizing, and supervising the operation, programs, and staff of the Recreation divisions. Manages the day-to-day operations, budget and financial objectives, planning, and marketing of the department, and provides professional and technical assistance to City Leadership. Generally, this position uses complex skills and works under limited supervision, with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Essential Duties & Required Qualifications Oversee the planning, organization, and supervision of recreation and educational programs including aquatics, athletics, special interest classes, active adult / senior programs, and special events, while cultivating a high-performing team culture. Provide direct oversight of all recreation programming and ensure the efficient, high-quality delivery of all programs and events, consistently delivering exceptional services. Executes special events and recreation activities. Execute, supervise, and support all special events and recreation activities. Provide full oversight of department special events and serve as the on-site supervisor to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality event operations. Formulate and implement strategic plans and annual work programs that align with City and department goals. Manage the Leander Activity Center (LAC), and directly supervise assigned staff. Provide coaching, career development, and annual performance evaluations. Manage department-wide marketing and communications, including the Play Guide, social media, promotional materials, and community outreach efforts such as surveys. Establish strategies for long-term direction of program areas, services, and activities. Develop and administer appropriate rules, policies, and processes to accomplish long-term and short-term goals and objectives and guide staff by defining standards and principles of operations in compliance with pertinent governing laws, regulations, and guidelines. Serve as a liaison to community groups, government agencies, educational institutions, businesses, non-profit organizations, and resident groups to advance department goals. Provide oversight of contract service providers responsible for program delivery, vendor services, and specialized activities. Assist with capital improvement program planning, facility needs forecasting, and development of capital and operating cost estimates. Lead or support special projects and assign initiatives that advance department objectives. Plan, manage, and monitor the proper allocation and utilization of staff according to projected needs and directives. Administer and enforce City policies and procedures in a supportive and productive manner. Participate in recruitment, selection, training, progressive discipline, and all other Human Resources related processes. Serve as a resource to advisory boards and commissions. Research, prepare, and present reports on department issues and initiatives. Assist in investigating and resolving complex or sensitive citizen complaints or problems. Prepare annual budgets for assigned divisions and continuously monitor expenditure and revenues, adjusting as needed to achieve department financial performance goals. Identify and pursue opportunities to increase revenue through programming, events, facility use, partnerships, and service enhancements. Execute strategies to grow and diversify revenue sources, including grants. Implement and administer contracts and agreements; negotiate with schools, community groups, and partners for fields, facilities, and shared spaces. Analyze and evaluate narrative and statistical data to assess program utilization, customer satisfaction, cost effectiveness, and overall community value. Stay current with professional practices, trends, and issues. Maintain and strengthen professional and administrative competencies and remain active in the professional community. Lead teams and contribute to a positive, high-performing team culture. Oversee recreation programs and special events, including on-site supervision. Manage recreation facilities. Manage budgets and monitoring financial performance. Coordinate with contractors, vendors, or partner organizations. Develop or implement program plans, policies, or procedures. Market or promote of recreation programs, events, or services. Resolve customer or citizen issues in a professional manner. Other related tasks, as assigned Required Education and Experience Bachelor's degree in Parks and Recreation or closely related field. from an accredited college or university. Minimum of five years of experience in recreation programming, special events, parks and recreation administration, or a closely related field. Minimum of two years of supervisory experience. Ability to work irregular hours, in addition to the regular daytime schedule such as special events (evenings or weekends), on-call, or emergency response situations. Required Certificate and Licenses Valid driver's license from any state in the U.S. Ability to obtain a Texas driver's license within 90 days, per state law. Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) certification required, or the ability to obtain one within six months of hire. First Aid / CPR / AED / Stop the Bleed, certifications, or ability to obtain it within the six months of hire. Preferred Qualifications Master's degree from an accredited college or university. Currently holds a Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) certification. Active First Aid /CPR/AED, Stop the Bleed certifications. Ellis & Associates Lifeguard Instructor certification or experience with Ellis & Associates training programs. Six or more years of experience in recreation programming, special events, parks and recreation administration, or a closely related field. Three or more years of supervisory experience. Experience in managing aquatic facilities. Experience in managing athletic programs. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing, including preparing clear reports and professional correspondence. Ability to interact with employees, partners, and the public in a courteous, diplomatic, and service-oriented manner. Skill in budget development, financial oversight, and monitoring expenditure and revenues. Skill in leading teams and cultivating a positive, high-performing team culture. Skill in managing recreation programs, special events, and recreation facility operations. Skill in coordinating multiple tasks, setting priorities, and meeting deadlines. Ability to analyze situations, make sound decisions, and take effective action. Knowledge of workplace safety requirements and compliance with safety procedures. Skill in data analysis, problem solving, and use of computers and related software applications. Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with City staff, elected officials, boards, community partners, and the public. Physical Demands & Additional Information While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, sit, use hands to handle and feel items, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, talk, and hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, and ability to adjust focus. Must be able to lift, push, pull, drag up to 50 pounds with regularity. Working Environment While performing the duties of this job, the employee will work largely indoors but may be required to work outdoors for short periods of time in extreme temperatures including heat, cold, temperature swings and inclement weather. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate, but occasionally loud. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified in this position. Job offer and continuation of employment with the City of Leander is contingent upon Proof of education, certification(s) and experience as listed on the employment application based on the job posting requirements. Satisfactory results from a pre-employment criminal history background and driving record check. Legal authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship. * Compliance with the Selective Service Registration for male US citizens and immigrants, who are ages 18-25. The City of Leander participates in E-Verify! Information from each new employee's Form I-9 will be provided to the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to confirm work authorization. The City of Leander is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information in employment. Applicants should communicate requests for disability-related accommodations during the application process to our Human Resources Department at hr@leandertx.gov or 512-528-2708. Deaf and hard of hearing applicants may contact our office via Relay Texas at 7-1-1 or 1-800-735- 2989 (TTY/TDD). For detailed information regarding our benefits package including our Benefits Guide, please visit this link: City of Leander 2026 Benefit Booklet 01 Do you have a bachelor's degree in Parks and Recreation or closely related field from an accredited college or university? Yes No 02 Do you have a minimum of five (5) years of experience in Parks and Recreation administration or closely related field? Yes No 03 Do you have a minimum of two (2) years with supervisory experience? Yes No 04 Are you available to work irregular hours, in addition to the regular daytime schedule such as special events (evenings or weekends), on-call, or emergency response situations? Yes No 05 Do you have a valid driver's license within the United States? Yes No 06 Do you have the Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) certification? Yes No, however, I can obtain the certification within the six months of my hire date. No 07 Do you have an active/current First Aid, Stop the Bleed and CPR/AED certifications? Yes No, however, I can obtain the certifications within six months of my hire date. No 08 Select all of the below that you have related to the Recreation Manager preferred qualifications. Master's degree from an accredited college or university. Valid Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) Active First Aid /CPR/AED, Stop the Bleed certifications Ellis & Associates Lifeguard Instructor certification or experience with Ellis & Associates training programs Six or more years of experience in recreation programming, special events, parks and recreation administration, or a closely related field Three or more years of supervisory experience Experience in managing aquatic facilities. Experience in managing athletic programs. Required Question Employer City of Leander Department Parks & Recreation Address 406 Municipal Drive Leander, Texas, 78641 Phone 512-528-2700 Website https://www.leandertx.gov