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 five (5) 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 September 25, 2026, based on the number and qualifications of applicants.