Director of Recreation

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 six (6) years of progressively responsible recreation programming experience, 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 October 25, 2026, based on the number and qualifications of applicants.