Lead Recreation Manager, Therapeutic Recreation

Primary Purpose

The Lead Recreation Manager, Therapeutic Recreation, is responsible for the planning, development, coordination and evaluation of year‑round recreational and community programs for individuals with disabilities. The position provides strategic operational leadership for therapeutic recreation programming, including camps, sports and leisure programs, special events and community‑based activities. Responsibilities include budget administration, staff and volunteer supervision, program marketing and ensuring safe, inclusive and high‑quality participant experiences.

The position requires flexibility, including evenings, weekends and seasonal program schedules. Performs all other related work as required and directed.

Scope and Judgment: The Lead Recreation Manager, Therapeutic Recreation operates with independence in comprehensive planning, developing, implementing, and managing year‑round recreational and community programming, including staff recruitment, placement and engagement activities for individuals with disabilities within established departmental policies and procedures. The position exercises judgment in program management and strategic leadership to meet evolving program needs.

Supervision Received: Works under the policy direction of the Deputy Commissioner of Parks and Recreation and/or designee. Exercises judgement in planning, prioritizing and executing responsibilities in accordance with departmental policies and timelines.

Supervision Given: Provides direct supervision to Recreation Manager, Special Needs, seasonal staff of up to 50 staff and over 300 volunteers. Responsible for staff performance, safety, scheduling and adherence to program standards.

• Plan, develop, implement, and evaluate inclusive, year‑round therapeutic recreation programs for a large contingency of individuals with disabilities (over 350+ annually), including camps, sports and leisure programs, Special Olympics, social events, and enrichment activities.
• Ensure programs are safe, accessible and aligned with best practices; conduct participant intake, assessments and ongoing evaluations to support individualized needs and accommodations, including behavioral, emotional and physical supports.
• Direct and manage all aspects of Camp Echo Bridge (six‑week inclusive summer camp) and related programs, including budgeting, registration, staffing, logistics and daily operations. Oversee a one‑week residential camping experience for ages 10‑21.
• Oversee signature experiences and events, including Annual Awards Ceremony, Kevin Clancy Basketball Tournament and City participation in Special Olympics.
• Recruit, hire, train, supervise and evaluate staff and coordinate a large volunteer workforce (300+ annually), ensuring high‑quality service delivery and adherence to policies and procedures.
• Develop, administer and monitor program budgets; oversee financial operations including fee collection, payroll, purchasing, vendor coordination and record‑keeping.
• Coordinate marketing and outreach efforts, including website management, social media and promotional materials to support program awareness and participation.
• Collaborate with City departments, community partners and stakeholders to enhance programming and expand inclusive recreation opportunities.
• Manage program expenditures responsibly, ensuring staff and operational activities remain within approved budgets, and recommend/coordinate purchases of supplies and equipment to support program delivery and make recommendations to supervisor regarding annual budget needs for staff training and programming.
• Maintain accurate records, prepare reports, monitor program performance and implement improvements as needed.
• Participate in meetings, trainings and professional development; stay current with trends and best practices in therapeutic recreation.
• Perform all other related work as required and directed.

• Education, Training, and
  
  Experience:
  
  Bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation, Recreation Management, Special Education or a related field is required. Candidates must also have a minimum of three to five (3–5)…