Director of Recreation and Facilities
About The Position
The Director of Recreation and Facilities provides strategic leadership and oversight for recreational programs, facility operations, and related services within the Lemont Park District. The role supervises the Recreation Facility Manager, Fitness Operations Manager, Aquatics Manager, Recreation Program Managers, and Recreation Staff, supporting high-quality, diverse, and inclusive services responsive to community needs. The Director collaborates with the Executive Director on innovation, special events, long-term planning, district growth, and intergovernmental partnerships, and works across departments to support cohesive service delivery and operational excellence. The Director leads program development and promotion, facility and service oversight, budgeting and financial planning, staff supervision, and performance evaluation. The role tracks strategic and operational goals, maintains program and facility records and performance measures, ensures applicable standards and policies are followed, and uses community feedback and participation data to guide services. The Director also serves as responsible for District operations when the Executive Director is absent and attends Board meetings, conferences, and workshops.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in recreation, sports management, or a closely related field, or equivalent educational experience; the degree is desired.
- At least 10 years of experience in the field.
- Managerial experience overseeing full-time and part-time staff.
- Advanced computer skills in Microsoft Office, design applications, desktop publishing, and WordPress or website software.
- Valid Illinois driver’s license.
- CPR/AED/First Aid certification within 90 days of hire.
- Ability to travel locally to Park District sites and to work-related meetings, conferences, and events.
- Ability to work outdoors occasionally in inclement weather.
Nice To Haves
- At least five years of experience with department-head responsibility in Parks and Recreation.
- CPRE (Certified Park and Recreation Executive) and/or CPRP (Certified Park and Recreation Professional) certification.
- CPO (Certified Pool Operator) or AFO (Aquatic Facility Operator) certification, or ability to obtain one.
- Knowledge of the organization’s philosophy, mission, leadership needs, and planning requirements.
Responsibilities
- Provide strategic leadership, direct supervision, and professional development support to full-time staff overseeing recreation operations, facilities, programs, and services.
- Plan, promote, organize, and oversee recreational programs and services for youth, teens, adults, and seniors, adapting offerings based on community feedback and participation trends.
- Lead implementation and progress tracking for the District Strategic Plan, Recreation Master Plan, and Annual Work Plan.
- Maintain program and facility records, performance metrics, and reports, and establish processes for registration, participation feedback, and data-informed decisions.
- Ensure educational programming complies with applicable standards and promotes safety, inclusivity, and quality.
- Develop new programs and initiatives, prepare seasonal brochure content, and establish fiscally responsible budgets.
- Develop program designs, marketing, and pricing strategies to maximize revenue and participation while maintaining affordability.
- Maintain current, accessible program and facility information on the Park District website and digital platforms.
- Comply with and enforce Park District policies and procedures, and recommend policy updates to improve operations and customer service.
- Prepare annual budgets and goals for departments within the role’s scope.
- Review departmental financial reports, monitor revenue and expenditures, and advise departments about budget modifications.
- Monitor staff performance, conduct annual evaluations, recommend salary increases, and take disciplinary action when appropriate.
- Assume responsibility for District operations in the Executive Director’s absence.
- Assist the Executive Director in drafting, creating, and implementing District strategic goals.
- Attend Board meetings, professional conferences, and workshops.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Benefits
- Medical and prescription coverage
- Dental and vision coverage
- Basic and voluntary life insurance
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- IMRF defined benefit pension plan
- 457 defined contribution plan
- Vacation and sick time as defined in the Policy Manual
- Paid holidays as defined in the Policy Manual
- Tuition reimbursement
- Facility discounts and usage benefits
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Director
