Demo

Recreation Program Manager

Town of Davidson
Davidson, NC Full Time
POSTED ON 1/14/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 1/30/2026
Distinguishing Features of the Class
An employee in this class plans, coordinates, and supervises a variety of programs and activities for residents.  The employee modifies programs in response to the needs of the community; recruits participants; publicizes program activities; and supervises the implementation of programs.  Work is performed in accordance with departmental rules and town policies and requires judgment and discretion in the application and interpretation of procedures.  Work is performed under the general supervision of the Parks and Recreation Operations Manager and is evaluated through conferences, annual evaluations, goal-setting, and public response to programs. Essential Duties and Tasks
  • Organize and implement programs including but not limited to recreation, cultural, arts, fitness, nutrition, wellness, athletic, natural resources, and parks programs for participants of all ages.
  • Participate in assessment of community recreation needs and interests.
  • Assist in the town’s internal and external efforts to promote and market departmental programs and events.
  • Problem solve citizen complaints and find mutually agreeable solutions.
  • Research programs, funding sources and program requirements to ensure that a variety of classes, , seminars, and programs are planned and implemented.
  • Assist in preparation of grant applications and proposals for funding.
  • Administer recreation, cultural, natural resource, park, fitness and wellness programs to ensure that programs are delivered within budget.
  • Locate and coordinate instructors, schedule facility use, and coordinate maintenance of facilities after use.
  • Calculate program fees to meet cost-recovery goals.
  • Coordinate with neighboring jurisdictions, schools, and various community agencies to devise programs.
  • Prepare news releases, information for website and social media posting.
  • Maintain inventory of all equipment; ensure equipment is maintained for current and future programs.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of programs, classes, and trips.  Identify areas where new programs are needed.
  • Manage special events, such as annual Christmas Parade, Town Day and Veteran’s Day.
  • Develop, schedule, promote, and manage summer camps; hire instructors, coordinate facility use, write promotional materials.
  • Provide customer service to public, including assisting in registration and answering phones.

Additional Job Duties
  • Assist Director, Operations Manager, or co-workers with other departmental programs and activities, as needed. 
  • Assist in the preparation of regular and special reports as required.
  • Perform related duties as required.
Knowledge Skills and Abilities
  • Considerable knowledge of  park and recreation program administration, operations, and activities.
  • Considerable knowledge of scheduling and planning. 
  • Skill in creative programming and resource development.
  • Working knowledge of the application of information technology to programming, scheduling and participant record-keeping.
  • Working knowledge of town purchasing and personnel policies and procedures.
  • Working knowledge of MS Word, Excel, Outlook, RecDesk programs.
  • Working knowledge of modern and effective supervisory principles and practices including motivation, communication, leadership, performance coaching and evaluation.
  • Skill in meeting facilitation, customer relations, and collaborative conflict resolution.
  • Ability to effectively plan and execute a year-round program of recreational activities.
  • Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written forms.
  • Ability to deal tactfully and courteously with the public.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with officials, citizens, employees, supervisors, and participants.
  • Ability to work varied hours and days.
  • Working knowledge of department budget and cost-recovery policy.
Physical Requirements
  • Must be able to physically perform the basic life operational functions of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, fingering, grasping feeling, talking, hearing, and repetitive motions.
  • Must be able to perform medium work exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally; and/or up to 20 pounds amount of force frequently; and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
  • Must possess the visual acuity to prepare and analyze data, operate a computer terminal, utilize measuring devices, operate a motor vehicles, and inspect work of others.
  • Employee is subject to hazards in parks and recreation including working in both inside and outside environments and in extreme temperatures, and noise.  Duties may also expose the employee to human body fluids and the work is covered by the OSHA requirements on bloodborne pathogens.

Desirable Education and Experience
Graduation from a four year college or university with a degree in recreation administration, physical education, health sciences, or related degree and minimum five years related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Special Requirements
Possession of a valid North Carolina commercial driver's license or ability to procure within 90 days. 
Ability to obtain professional recreation certification.
Archery Certification or the ability to obtain within six months of employment. (Town provided training)

Salary : $61,360 - $66,560

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