Recreation Director

Salary: $221,156.00 Annually
Location : Oldemeyer Center, 986 Hilby Ave., Seaside, CA 93955, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 2026-23
Department: Recreation
Opening Date: 07/24/2026


Description
RESUMES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED IN LIEU OF AN APPLICATION

Priority screening application deadline is August 14, 2026

Important Information: Applications submitted incomplete and/or without the required document(s) and responses to application and supplemental questions will be disqualified. Applications will be accepted continuously until a sufficient number of qualified applications have been received or until the position has been filled. This recruitment may close at any time without notice.

Priority Screening Deadline: August 14th 2026.

Application Process
A limited number of applicants who clearly show that they most closely meet the needs of this position in terms of training, experience, education, and other job-related characteristics will be accepted to participate in the selection process. This process will include evaluation and initial screening of the standard online City application to determine which candidates progress to the next phase of the recruitment process. The subsequent selection process may include a written test/written exercise, performance exercise, panel interview, and a final departmental interview. The Human Resources Department reserves the right to change components of the examination process.

As a condition of employment, the selected candidate will be required to successfully pass a Live Scan fingerprint background check and reference check. Depending on the position, as a condition of employment, the selected candidate may also be required to pass a physical exam, including a drug screen.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: The City of Seaside provides outstanding services to the public and is deeply committed to a community and workforce that is inclusive, equitable, and diverse. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified applicants, including underrepresented minorities that contribute to the diversification and enrichment of ideas and perspectives. The City of Seaside does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, or based on an individual's status in any group of class-protected by applicable federal, state or local law.


DEFINITION

Under administrative direction of the City Manager or its designee, plans, organizes, manages, and provides direction and oversight for all functions and activities of the Building Department; coordinates assigned activities with other City Departments, officials, outside agencies, and the public; fosters cooperative working relationships among City Departments and with intergovernmental and regulatory agencies and various public and private groups; provides highly complex and professional assistance to the areas of expertise; and performs related work as required.


SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED


Receives administrative direction from the City Manager. Exercises general direction over management, supervisory, professional, technical, and administrative support staff through subordinate levels of management and supervision.


CLASS CHARACTERISTICS


This is a Department Director classification that oversees, directs, and participates in all activities of the Community Services Department, including short- and long-term planning and development and administration. This class provides assistance to the City Manager in a variety of administrative, coordinative, analytical, and liaison capacities. Successful performance of the work requires knowledge of public policy, municipal functions and activities, including the role of an elected City Council, and the ability to develop, oversee, and implement projects and programs in a variety of areas. Responsibilities include coordinating the activities of the department with those of other departments and clients, local residents, community groups, and private businesses and managing and overseeing the complex and varied functions of the department. The incumbent is accountable for accomplishing departmental planning and operational goals and objectives and for furthering City goals and objectives within general policy guidelines.

Examples of Duties


Management reserves the rights to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.

• Plans, organizes, manages, controls, and evaluates through subordinate management staff all of the construction, maintenance, and repair activities assigned to the department, including landscaped areas, parkways, open spaces, pools, pavilions, athletic fields, park amenities, and facilities to assure the safety and security of City patrons.
• Plans, organizes, manages, controls, and evaluates through subordinate management staff, the City's recreational programs including youth programs, adult and youth sports, aquatics, cultural arts, social services, contract programs, and special events.
• Selects, trains, motivates, and directs department personnel; evaluates and reviews work for acceptability and conformance with department standards, including program and project priorities and performance evaluations; works with employees on performance issues; implements discipline and termination procedures; responds to staff questions and concerns.
• Develops, directs, and coordinates the implementation of goals, objectives, policies, procedures, and work standards for the department; establishes, within City policy, appropriate budget, service, and staffing levels.
• Manages and participates in the development and administration of the department's annual budget; directs the forecast of additional funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials, and supplies; directs the monitoring of and approves expenditures; directs and implements adjustments as necessary.
• Contributes to the overall quality of the department's service by developing, reviewing, and implementing policies and procedures to meet legal requirements and City needs; continuously monitors and evaluates the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery methods and procedures; assesses and monitors the distribution of work, support systems, and internal reporting relationships; identifies opportunities for improvement; directs the implementation of change.
• Plans, organizes, manages, controls, and evaluates through subordinate management staff all of the construction, maintenance, and repair activities assigned to the department, including landscaped areas, parkways, open spaces, pools, pavilions, athletic fields, park amenities, and facilities to ensure the safety and security of City patrons.
• Act as a liaison, attend meetings of, and prepare reports, agendas and minutes for Commission and community advisory groups, including the Parks & Recreation Commission, Senior Commission, and Historical Commission; provide technical and professional advice and recommendations related to art, history, and recreation commissions for the City of Seaside.
• Represents the department to other City departments, elected officials, and outside agencies; explains and interprets departmental programs, policies, and activities; negotiates and resolves significant and controversial issues.
• Responds to difficult and sensitive public inquiries and complaints and assists with resolutions and alternative recommendations.
• Supervise the maintenance of records, reports, and division program software such as RECTRAC, Target Solutions, Suite One and Incode.
• Oversees the development of consultant requests for proposals for professional services and the advertising and bid processes; evaluates proposals and recommends project afterward; coordinates with legal counsel to determine City needs and requirements for contractual services; negotiates contracts and agreements and administers the same afterward.
• Participates in and makes presentations to the City Council and a variety of boards and commissions; attends and participates in professional group meetings; stays abreast of new trends and innovations in the field of community and other services as they relate to the area of assignment.
• Access community recreation interests and make recommendations to ensure productive implementation of City recreation programs.
• Monitors changes in laws, regulations, and technology that may affect City or departmental operations; implements policy and procedural changes as required.
• Direct the development of grants, corporate sponsorships, donations, and other fundraising programs to support services and programs.
• Oversee and schedule City-wide special events.
• Prepares, reviews, and presents staff reports, various management and information updates, and reports on special projects as assigned by the City Manager.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Typical Qualifications
Equivalent to graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in recreation administration, public or business administration, or a related field and seven (7) years of management experience in community services and recreation.

Licenses and Certifications: Possession of a valid California Driver's License.


Knowledge of:

• Administrative principles and practices, including goal setting, program development, implementation, and evaluation, and supervision of staff, either directly or through subordinate levels of supervision.
• Public agency budgetary, contract administration, City-wide administrative practices, and general principles of risk management related to the functions of the assigned area.
• Organizational and management practices as applied to the analysis and evaluation of projects, programs, policies, procedures, and operational needs; principles and practices of municipal government administration.
• Principles and practices of community services program development and management in a municipal setting.
• Principles and techniques of community services long-term maintenance planning and budgeting.
• Methods, materials, and techniques used in the construction of community services projects.
• Principles, procedures, and practices for planning, implementing, and maintaining a variety of recreation and leisure activities and programs through community participation.
• Applicable Federal, State, and local laws, rules, regulations, ordinances, and organizational policies and procedures relevant to assigned area of responsibility.
• Principles and practices of employee supervision, including work planning, assignment, review and evaluation, and the training of staff in work procedures.
• Principles, practices, methods, theories, and trends in volunteerism and volunteer management.
• Technical, legal, financial, and public relations problems associated with the management of community services programs.
• Methods and techniques for the development of presentations, contract negotiations, business correspondence, and information distribution; research and reporting methods, techniques, and procedures.
• Modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment and applications related to the work.
• Techniques for effectively representing the City in contacts with governmental agencies, community groups, and various business, professional, educational, regulatory, and legislative organizations.
• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and City staff.

Ability to:

• Develop and implement goals, objectives, policies, procedures, work standards, and internal controls for the department and assigned program areas.
• Provide administrative and professional leadership and direction for the department and the City.
• Prepare and administer large and complex budgets; allocate limited resources in a cost effective manner.
• Interpret, apply, explain, and ensure compliance with Federal, State, and local laws, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Plan, organize, direct, and coordinate the work of management, supervisory, professional, and technical personnel; delegate authority and responsibility.
• Select, train, motivate, and evaluate the work of staff and train staff in work procedures.
• Research, analyze, and evaluate new service delivery methods, procedures, and techniques.
• Effectively administer special projects with contractual agreements and ensure compliance with stipulations; effectively administer a variety of community services programs and administrative activities.
• Conduct effective negotiations and effectively represent the City and the department in meetings with governmental agencies, contractors, vendors, and various businesses, professional, regulatory, and legislative organizations.
• Prepare clear and concise reports, correspondence, policies, procedures, and other written materials.
• Conduct complex research projects, evaluate alternatives, make sound recommendations, and prepare effective technical staff reports.
• Organize and prioritize a variety of projects and multiple tasks in an effective and timely manner; organize own work, set priorities, and meet critical time deadlines.
• Operate office equipment and computer applications related to the work.
• Use English effectively to communicate in person, over the telephone, and in writing.
• Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines.
• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Supplemental Information

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; to operate a motor vehicle and to visit various construction, City, and meeting sites; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person, before groups, and over the telephone. This is primarily a sedentary office, partially a field classification, and standing and walking between work areas may be required. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment. Positions in this classification occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push, and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects weighing up to 25 pounds.
ENVIRONMENTAL ELEMENTS
Employees primarily work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to potentially hazardous physical substances. Employees partially work in the field and may be exposed to hot and cold temperatures, inclement weather conditions, loud noise levels, vibration, confining workspace, chemicals, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, and hazardous physical substances and fumes. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures and City codes.

DISASTER SERVICE WORKERS: All City of Seaside employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the City requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.
APPLICATION PROCESS: A completed City application form and resume are required to be considered for this position. Applications must be complete and clearly demonstrate that the minimum qualifications are met. Copies of all required licenses and certificates must be submitted with the completed application. All statements made on the application are subject to investigation and verification. False statements will be cause for disqualification, or discharge from employment. The standards as stated on the front of this job announcement represent only the minimum required to file an application. Meeting the listed standards does not guarantee that a candidate will be invited for an examination as the Human Resources Department reserves the right to limit the number of candidates to the most qualified for the position as determined by the Human Resources Department.

LOYALTY OATH OR AFFIRMATION: All City employees are required to sign a loyalty oath and affirmation prior to actual employment.

EMPLOYMENT STATUS: This is an at-will position that serves at the pleasure of the City Manager.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY: The City of Seaside does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, age, religion, gender, sex, gender identity or expression, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, national origin, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, covered medical condition, sexual orientation, military or veteran's status, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law in its employment actions, decisions, policies or practices. Reasonable accommodation in the application, testing and selection process will be made upon request of disabled applicants.


IMMIGRATION REFORM & CONTROL ACT 1986: In compliance with the Immigration Reform & Control Act 1986, all new employees must verify identity and entitlement to work in the United States by providing required documentation.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Applicants must be in satisfactory health and free from disabling defect which would preclude satisfactory performance in the job for which applied.

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION: The Human Resources Department will make reasonable efforts in the examination process to accommodate qualified individuals with mental and physical disabilities, and/or medical conditions in accordance/compliance with the State Fair Employment Housing Act (FEHA) and Federal Americans with Disability Act (ADA) of 1990. To request reasonable accommodation, you must notify the Human Resource Representative listed on this bulletin as soon as possible and before the last day to file, in order to make the necessary arrangements during each step of the examination process.

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS:

The City of Seaside offers a comprehensive benefit package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance.


The City offers a Relocation Reimbursement program that provides up to $15,000 in housing / moving expense reimbursements for mission critical management positions that choose to live in the City of Seaside. For details, please review the
01


Your application must include the following:1. At least 10 years of employment history (assuming you have been employed for ten years)2. Explanation for any gaps in employment3. A reason for leaving each job4. Three professional references (including names and phone numbers of present and past supervisors or managers, or persons for whom you have directly provided services, not peers)5. A clear demonstration in your application and responses to supplemental questions of all relevant education and experience. Responses such as "See Resume" or "See Application" will result in disqualification and will not be considered further.6. Certificate of degree attached to your applicationRESUMES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED IN LIEU OF AN APPLICATIONI understand that my application may be rejected if incomplete or if I fail to provide any of the information listed above.CLICK YES TO ACKNOWLEDGE

• Yes
• No

02


Do you possess education equivalent to graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major coursework in recreation administration, public administration, business administration, or a closely related field? NOTE: You must attach proof of your qualifying education (such as transcripts, diploma, or degree verification) with your application. Failure to provide the required documentation will result in disqualification.

• Yes
• No

03


Do you have at least seven (7) years of management experience in community services and recreation?

• Yes
• No

04


Do you possess a valid California drivers' license?

• Yes
• No

05


Please describe your experience working in local government. Include the agency, your role, and the scope of your responsibilities.
06


Describe a significant recreation program, community initiative, or organizational improvement that you led from planning through implementation. What was your role and what were the results?
07


Which of the following systems have you used professionally? (Select all that apply.)

• RecTrac
• Tyler Incode
• TargetSolutions
• SuiteOne
• ActiveNet
• CivicRec
• Other recreation management software
• Microsoft Excel (advanced budgeting/reporting)
• None of the above

08


OPTIONAL: Are you a Veteran? Veterans are defined in accordance with California Government Code 18973 which states that a "veteran" means any person who has served full time for 30 days or more in the armed forces in time of war or in time of peace in a campaign or expedition for service in which a medal has been authorized by the government of the United States, or during the period September 16, 1940, to January 31, 1955, or who has served at least 181 consecutive days since January 31, 1955, and who has been discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable, but does not include any person who served only in auxiliary or reserve components of the armed forces whose service therein did not exempt him or her from the operation of the Selective Training and Service Act of 1940.

• Yes
• No

09


OPTIONAL: If you are a veteran, are you requesting a Veterans' Preference? If so, you must attach a copy of your DD214 with your completed application form.

• Yes
• No

Required Question