Director of Recreation

Job Description

Job Description

Inspire Programs. Develop Leaders. Strengthen Community

Are you a passionate leader who thrives on creating memorable experiences, empowering staff, and building strong community connections?

Dundee Township Park District is seeking an innovative and experienced Director of Recreation to lead a talented team responsible for delivering exceptional programs, events, and services that enrich the lives of residents of all ages.

Why This Role Matters:

As Director of Recreation, you'll oversee the planning, organization, and management of recreation programs, community events, partnerships, and customer-focused services throughout the District. You will serve as a key leader responsible for shaping recreational opportunities, developing staff, and ensuring the community's evolving needs are met through innovative and high-quality programming. This role requires a collaborative leader who can inspire a team, drive strategic initiatives, and successfully balance long-term planning with daily operations in a dynamic environment.

What You'll Do:

• Lead, coach, and support recreation staff in delivering high-quality programs, services, and events.
• Oversee the planning, implementation, evaluation, and continuous improvement of recreation programs and community initiatives.
• Analyze participation trends, demographics, program performance, and community needs to identify opportunities for growth and innovation.
• Manage and oversee large-scale community events, seasonal offerings, and special initiatives.
• Foster staff development through coaching, mentoring, training, and leadership opportunities.
• Develop and manage departmental budgets while ensuring responsible stewardship of public resources.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with schools, community organizations, local agencies, and business partners.
• Collaborate with the Marketing Department to promote programs, services, and special events.
• Prepare reports, recommendations, and presentations for District leadership and the Board of Commissioners.
• Promote a culture of excellence, accountability, customer service, and innovation throughout the department.

What We're Looking For:

• A positive and engaging leader who enjoys developing and supporting staff.
• A strategic thinker who can successfully balance long-range planning with day-to-day operations.
• A recreation professional with experience managing programs, personnel, budgets, and community partnerships.
• A collaborative leader who values exceptional customer service and community engagement.
• A proactive problem solver who embraces innovation and continuous improvement.
• An effective communicator who builds strong relationships within the organization and throughout the community.

Qualifications:

Education
Bachelor's degree in Recreation, Sports Management, Business Administration, or a related field required.

Experience
Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in department leadership and recreation programming, including supervisory and leadership responsibilities.

Demonstrated experience with:

• Recreation program development and evaluation
• Staff supervision and leadership
• Budget preparation and financial management
• Community engagement and partnership development
• Special event planning and management
• Strategic planning and organizational initiatives
• Customer service and public relations

Licensure

• Valid Illinois Driver's License required
• Ability to obtain CPR/AED and First Aid certification within 60 days of hire

Certifications and Professional Affiliations

• Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) preferred
• Participation in professional recreation organizations encouraged

In exchange for your time and talent, we offer a generous benefit package, including:

• Defined contribution medical insurance plan options
• Dental insurance plan
• Vision insurance plan
• District-paid life insurance and voluntary additional life insurance, spouse and dependent coverage
• Participation in IMRF (retirement, disability, and death benefits)
• Vacation days, personal days, sick leave, and paid holidays
• Sick bank leave and paid bereavement leave
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Deferred compensation retirement plan option
• Flexible spending accounts for unreimbursed medical and dependent care
• Free family memberships to our unique facilities
• Free/discounted District programs, merchandise, and concessions
• Educational assistance, tuition reimbursement, and professional development opportunities
• Professional organizational memberships
• Service Awards Program
• Employee social activities
• Wellness Incentive Program
• Credit Union

If you're ready to inspire your team, elevate recreation services, and help shape exceptional experiences for our community, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply Now!

Closing Date: September 18, 2026. The application period may be extended through September 25, 2026, based on the number and qualifications of applicants.