Recreation Coordinator -Special Events

Special Instructions

Works special events and rentals that will require working many evenings, weekends and some holidays beyond normal business hours. Events may be held at various facilities located within the City, as well as, other neighboring locations. May be required to assist in city operations during emergencies and weather related events.

Drug Screening: MARIJUANA. In accordance with City policy, this position is deemed safety‑sensitive. As such, applicants for this position are subject to pre‑employment drug/alcohol testing after receiving a conditional offer of employment and may also be subject to random testing. This drug test includes testing for marijuana. Possession of a medical marijuana card will not excuse an applicant from the testing process;

however, a test will not be considered positive for marijuana if a valid medical marijuana certification is presented unless the position requires a commercial driver’s license (CDL) or is a sworn law‑enforcement officer/deputy.

Position Title:

Special Events & Rentals Manager (full-time). Job Type: Full Time. Posting Type:
Public.

Number of Vacancies : 1. Department: PARKS, REC, & TOURISM. Division: PR&T SPECIAL PROGS.

Requisition Number: 2026319.

Work Schedule:

Monday – Friday 8 am–5 pm (including evenings, weekends, holidays). Work Site:
Chesapeake, VA. Position Driving Requirement:
Routine. Pay Grade: GE13. Pay Basis:
Semi‑Monthly. Advertised Salary: $61,647/annually (starting salary based on qualifications and experience).

• Plan, develop, coordinate, and evaluate citywide special events, programs, and recreational activities.
• Supervise assigned staff, including hiring, training, scheduling, evaluating performance, and providing coaching and discipline.
• Collaborate with city departments, community groups, vendors, and stakeholders to plan and execute events.
• Develop event concepts, activities, sponsor ships, entertainment, and programming for diverse audiences.
• Design and coordinate promotional and marketing materials using various media platforms.
• Oversee event safety, permitting, compliance, and incident reporting, ensuring adherence to city policies and regulations.
• Manage contracts, vendors, entertainment, concessions, and service providers, including negotiation and selection.
• Monitor budgets, approve expenditures, review invoices and payroll, and support annual budget development.
• Collect, analyze, and maintain data, records, and reports related to programs and events.
• Coordinate logistics for citywide events, ceremonial programs, and special initiatives.
• Maintain equipment, supplies, and inventory; place orders as needed.
• Provide excellent customer service and respond to public inquiries and concerns.
• Attend meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities; represent the department at public presentations.
• Support special event permitting, compliance, and work order processes.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education, Sports/Recreation Administration, Outdoor Recreation or a related field.

Minimum two years of full‑time equivalent experience in the field, including at least one year of supervisory responsibilities.

Valid driver’s license and driving record in compliance with City Driving Standards.

CPR and First Aid certification preferred; must be obtained within six months of employment and renewed every two years.

Employees may be expected to work hours in excess of normally scheduled hours in response to short‑term department needs, city‑wide emergencies, or weather‑related events. Emergency operations support work and work locations may be outside of normal job duties.

• Experience in planning, marketing, and conducting indoor and outdoor special events; working with vendors, exhibitors, sponsors, media outlets, and citizen groups.
• Experience coordinating ceremonial events and general knowledge of ceremony protocol.
• Over one year of full‑time experience including some professional experience in managing organized special events and programs.
• Knowledge of recreational games, sports, arts and crafts, fitness programs,…