Recreation Operations Division Manager
Application Deadline: Tuesday, August 4, 2026 at 5:00 PM EST.
To Apply: To view the complete job information and to apply, visit our employment website listed. Applications are only accepted online through the City of Charlottesville employment page, www.charlottesville.gov/jobs, and must be submitted prior to the listed closing date and time. USE THE FOLLOWING URL TO APPLY ONLINE:
The Recreation Operations Division Manager performs responsible work in directing the planning, management, and operations of departmental functions overseeing and supervising the operations of recreation services at City Aquatic Facilities, Recreation Centers, Skatepark, and special events. Work is performed under the limited supervision of the Deputy Director of Recreation.
The preferred hiring amount for this position is between $80,556.13 - $100,908.38 annually. Starting offer is based on applicable education, experience, and internal equity. This full-time, exempt position offers a comprehensive benefits package, health insurance with employer contribution, employer-paid life insurance, gym membership reimbursement, tuition assistance, and professional development opportunities. This position is also eligible for the following leave and retirement benefits:
- Vacation Leave: 3.09 hours accrued bi-weekly (increases with YOS).
- Sick Leave: 4.62 hours accrued bi-weekly, approx. 120 hours per year with no limit on accumulation.
- 13 Paid Observed City Holidays
- 1 Floating Holiday which must be taken during the fiscal year (July 1 - June 30)
- Choice of retirement plan:
- Defined Benefit Pension Plan: Provides a monthly benefit upon retirement, calculated using a defined formula based on earnings history, years of service, and age. The plan includes a 5-year vesting period and requires an employee contribution of 5% of salary.
- Defined Contribution 401a Plan: Employer makes fixed contributions to an individual account, which are invested, and returns are credited to the account. The account balance is used to provide retirement benefits. Vesting occurs at 33% after one year, 67% after two years, and 100% after three years of service. No salary contribution is required.
- Voluntary 457 Deferred Compensation Plan
- Eligibility to purchase prior service credit under the Defined Benefit Plan
The City of Charlottesville manages its own retirement system and does not participate in VRS; however, a Portability Agreement is available for eligible employees. For additional details, please visit the City’s Employee Benefits webpage.
Education and Experience: Candidates may qualify by demonstrating the required knowledge and skills outlined for the job through experience(s) other than formal education.
- Bachelor’s degree in recreation, public administration, business or related field AND 6 years of progressively responsible experience related to parks or recreation, including at least 2 years of supervisor or managerial experience.
- Associate degree in recreation, public administration, business or related field AND 8 years of progressively responsible experience related to parks or recreation, including at least 2 years of supervisor or managerial experience.
- High School diploma or GED AND 10 years of progressively responsible experience related to parks or recreation, including at least 2 years of supervisor or managerial experience.
- An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered in lieu of the specific requirements listed above.
Preferred:
- Certified Parks & Recreation Professional (CPRP) certification.
Certifications/Licenses/Other Requirements:
- Certified Pool Operator (CPO) or Aquatics Facility Operator (AFO) required within 6 months of employment.
- Must obtain and maintain a valid Virginia driver’s license and acceptable driving record according to city criteria.
- Required to successfully pass a pre-employment background check and pre-employment drug screen.
