Recreation Center Manager

Recreation Center Manager – City of Norwalk, Connecticut

The Recreation Center Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations, programming, staffing, and community engagement efforts of the Norwalk Recreation Center. The role ensures the delivery of inclusive, high-quality recreational and cultural services that reflect the diverse needs of Norwalk residents. The manager supervises personnel, coordinates facility use, and builds strong partnerships with internal teams and external stakeholders.

• Develop and implement recreational and cultural programs in partnership with NRP supervisors, partner organizations, and service providers.
• Plan, develop, and coordinate recreational, social, and cultural programs that reflect community needs, adjusting offerings to ensure effectiveness, efficiency, and alignment with departmental goals and performance metrics.
• Oversee daily operations of the facility, including scheduling, maintenance, concessions, equipment, and building security.
• Monitor the condition of facilities and equipment, arrange for repairs or replacements, and recommend facility improvements as needed.
• Maintain the master schedule and ensure adequate staff coverage for all programs.
• Supervise, train, and evaluate assigned personnel, including full-time, part-time, temporary staff, and volunteers.
• Manage recruitment, hiring, reassignment, disciplinary actions, and performance appraisals. Ensure compliance with City and departmental personnel policies and safety procedures.
• Promote programs, facilities, and services to the public, schools, businesses, and other stakeholders to maximize participation and community engagement.
• Assess community and group recreational needs and procure materials and resources to support effective program delivery.
• Establish and maintain administrative systems for documentation, communication, and regulatory compliance.
• Manage budgets and ensure compliance with City financial policies, including cash handling and record-keeping.
• Coordinate facility uses, including rentals, community events, and collaborative ventures, in line with City policies.
• Implement administrative systems to manage paperwork, communication, assignments, and ensure deadlines and legal/auditor requirements are met.
• Coordinate with Parks and Public Spaces and City building management staff regarding facility maintenance and repairs.
• Establish and maintain relationships with advisory councils, holding meetings to share information, gather input, and explore recommendations.
• Prioritize community partnerships and implement contracts to maximize resources and program impact.
• Oversee program operations to ensure achievement of specified outcomes and performance measures.

• Collaborate with the Recreation Superintendent and Director to develop and manage sponsorship proposals and agreements.
• Participate in professional recreation associations and other professional organizations.
• Receive and respond to inquiries from the public concerning programs and activities.
• Recommend the purchase of materials, supplies, and equipment as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Receives general supervision from the Director of Recreation & Parks.

• Knowledge of recreation programming, multipurpose facility management, budget practices, and recreation equipment.
• Ability to assess community needs, plan programs, and allocate resources effectively.
• Strong leadership, supervisory, and team-building skills.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment, solve problems, and interpret policies.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with staff, community members, and partner organizations.
• Knowledge of applicable local, state, and federal regulations related to municipal recreation operations.
• Ability to communicate with cultural individuals and groups.
• Ability to supervise the activities of assigned staff and recreation participants.
• Ability to develop and maintain positive relationships with the community served.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and online data collection and registration software.

Bachelor’s degree in Recreation, Physical Education, Recreation Administration, public or Business Administration, or a related Social Science degree, and three (3) years of professional experience in recreation center program management or a closely related field. Equivalent combinations of education, training and/or experience are acceptable.

Possession of a valid driver’s license. Certified Park and Recreation Professional (C.P.R.P.) certification is preferred. First Aid Certificate and CPR Certificate required.

This role is on-site in Norwalk, CT. This position is NASA Grade 5. The City of Norwalk is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.