What are the responsibilities and job description for the Recreation Senior Manager position at Prince William County Government?
Introduction
Prince William County Department of Parks & Recreation (DPR) is looking for a superstar Recreation Senior Manager to join our Recreation Division, a fun, dynamic, high-energy, and team-driven environment where every day brings something new and exciting.
Make an impact as the Recreation Senior Manager for one of Metro D.C.’s largest, most diverse park systems. DPR is seeking a proven leader to oversee a suite of recreation program functional areas to ensure conformity with division goals and objectives. If you’re ready to grow as a leader and make a meaningful impact in a dynamic, mission-driven organization, we encourage you to apply today. This opportunity offers the chance to contribute to transformative community initiatives while building your leadership skills.
We’re seeking someone who brings a positive, can-do mindset, a strong work ethic, and a genuine passion for finding solutions. The ideal candidate is a clear communicator who approaches challenges with a “let’s make it happen” attitude and thrives in a collaborative environment.
If you enjoy problem-solving, working alongside an enthusiastic team, and making a meaningful impact in the community, this will be an excellent fit. Join a department that celebrates creativity, teamwork, and a supportive, upbeat culture.
Our department is proudly accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA), a prestigious national recognition of excellence in park and recreation operations, management, and community service. This distinction reflects our commitment to the highest standards, having successfully met 151 rigorous benchmarks that represent effective, efficient, and innovative practices in the field. DPR’s mission is to create recreational and cultural experiences for a more vibrant community and envisions itself as a lead collaborator in delivering holistic solutions for community transformation.
The Department’s service portfolio includes 80 parks and facilities spread across 5,000 acres, including two waterparks, four community pools, two indoor aquatic and fitness centers, three community centers, three golf courses, 60 miles of trails, 14 historic sites, three licensed pre-school sites, and nearly 300 athletic fields. The Department manages an operating budget of over $57 million, including $23 million for the Recreation Division. It is strongly employee-centered, guided by a Leadership Philosophy that promotes leadership at all levels. Employees are empowered to contribute to daily problem-solving, system improvements, and strategic planning. The Department fosters a culture where people thrive by being trusted, included, respected, and supported.
About This Role:
The Recreation Senior Manager will provide dynamic leadership and oversight for all park and center operations, including a wide range of recreation programs such as classes, camps, and special events. This role is dedicated to ensuring that each site maintains high standards of safety and security while delivering exceptional experiences to the community. The manager will support the achievement of division goals by regularly evaluating practices, processes, and systems, and by working collaboratively with staff to implement thoughtful, strategic improvements. This position also includes supervising multiple full-time team members and reports directly to the Assistant Director for Recreation.
The ideal Recreation Senior Manager will bring a passion for excellence, demonstrating the enthusiasm and dedication needed to elevate outcomes from ordinary to extraordinary, never settling for second best in a community where expectations are high. This individual will possess strong vision, consistently thinking about the future with creativity and imagination, while considering the big picture and exploring innovative strategies to help the department continuously improve. Equally important is the ability to inspire, serving as a leader who motivates staff to achieve greatness and builds on an already strong foundation to reach even higher levels of success.
The successful candidate will also have excellent communication skills, with the ability to clearly and effectively present ideas, concepts, and plans for elected officials, staff, and the community. Strong leadership is essential, including proven experience collaborating with teams at all levels, addressing challenges, supporting staff development, and fostering a positive, solutions-focused work environment. Finally, the role requires solid financial savvy, with the ability to manage budgets, analyze financial data, and make strategic decisions that ensure fiscal responsibility while advancing organizational goals.
Preferences:
- 8 years of community recreation administration experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Parks and Recreation or a related field
- Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) credential
- Experience working with an accredited parks and recreation agency
- Experience in a high cost-recovery environment, successfully leading the integration of cost-recovery strategies in parks and recreation programming
- Experience overseeing park operations
- Experience developing and evaluating recreation program plans
- Strong ability to analyze and synthesize data
- Experience leading technology modernization initiatives
- Experience researching, developing, and implementing policies and processes, as well as writing and securing grants to support program growth and innovation
- Experience supervising, coaching, mentoring, and developing employees
- Experience coordinating special events, adopt-a-park initiatives, and partnership development
- Experience working with recreation management software
Special Requirements:
The Department of Parks & Recreation conducts DMV record checks on all licensed employees and criminal background checks on all hires 18 years and older. Fingerprinting may be required. A valid driver’s license is required.
Work Schedule:
37.5 HPW; typical schedule is between 8:00 am - 5:30 pm Monday-Friday, with some weekend and holiday work required based on operational and event schedules. This position is classified as exempt and can adjust hours to meet operational needs.
Hiring Salary Range:
We also offer great benefits including:
- Retirement from the Virginia Retirement System (VRS)
- 401a and 457 retirement savings and investment plans
- Paid Annual Leave
- Paid Personal Leave
- Paid Sick Leave
- Paid Holidays
- Optional Group Medical and Dental Health Plans
- Optional Group Life Insurance
- An Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Career Development Opportunities
Full time positions with Prince William County Government qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness.
NOTE: The above position description is intended to represent only the key areas of responsibilities; specific position assignments will vary depending on the business needs of the department. To view the class description in its entirety,
Prince William County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the County will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.
SEE YOURSELF HERE!
Full-time and part-time Prince William County Government employees are eligible to participate in our plans; however, the level and cost of benefits depends on the classification of the position.
The following positions do not accrue leave and are not eligible for holidays or other fringe benefits:
- Temporary
- Provisional
- Seasonal employees
Salary : $102,097 - $120,114