Recreation Program Manager (Athletics)

Company: Town of Garner
Location: Garner
Posted on: February 13, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description The Town of Garner is seeking a Recreation Program Manager in the Athletics division. This role plans, organizes, and supervises athletic leagues, sports camps and other related programming. The manager provides strong leadership by supervising staff, recruiting volunteers, negotiating contracts, and engaging with the community to enhance athletic programming and build long-term support. Success in this position requires strategic planning and data analysis to assess program performance, inform future programming offerings, and align operations with municipal goals. This is a great opportunity to contribute to the vitality of the community through recreation and athletic programming. Examples of Duties: Evaluates community needs and effectiveness of programs by working with Town officials, community groups and stakeholders in determining needs and interests; recommends programs, priorities, budgets, and methods necessary to meet those needs; evaluates program successes and needed improvements; implements necessary changes. Plans, organizes and manages a variety of programs and activities both directly and through subordinate supervisors oriented toward department mission, vision and goals. This includes planning and scheduling programs and aligning resources, facilities and staff to maximize their impact. Coordinates maintenance, construction, and repair for buildings, parks, vehicles, open space, trails, fields, and related facilities with staff in other departments. Maintains the master calendar for Avery Street Recreation Center, athletic fields and tennis courts. Manages rental requests for assigned spaces. Monitors and assures the safety and clean and neat appearance of recreation centers, community center, theater, parks, and facilities; gives directions to staff for preparation of activities; coordinates maintenance and repair needs with Town staff. Participates in, performs and supervises hiring processes for full and part-time staff; This includes supervising and participating in employee orientation, training, scheduling work assignment, performance coaching and evaluation. Provides team building, coaching, mentoring, and articulation of vision of excellence in leading the division; works proactively to enhance morale and performance excellence. Recruits, orients and trains volunteers including coaching, game officials, facility attendants, and auditorium technicians. Develops and administers division budget; projects revenues and expenses; purchases materials and maintains inventory of equipment and supply needs; provides input into parks and recreation capital needs planning. Leads the marketing and community outreach efforts for the Athletics division by developing and executing strategic communication plans across various channels, including social media, the Town website, and the annual program guide. Collects community member feedback through surveys, focus groups and other listening tools; analyzes program data to evaluate success; and uses these insights to drive enrollment and enhance program quality. Provides necessary liaison with other public and private groups and agencies. Prepares and maintains records and reports as needed. Represents the department and Town on various committees and groups; establishes and maintains community and regional partnerships; develops and maintains sponsorship plans. Provides support to other staff as needed. Performs other related duties as required. Minimum Qualifications: Applicants must: A Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university with degree in Sports Tourism, Parks, Recreation, Business, Physical Education or related field Have at least (3) three years of experience in sports/or athletics Have a valid driver’s license in the state of North Carolina Have a CPR and/or First Aid certification or be able to obtain within 6 months Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) is highly desirable. Additional Information: The salary range shown is the hiring range. The starting salary will be determined based on the selected candidate's skills and qualifications. This position frequently requires work on nights, weekends, and some holidays to support athletic programs and special events. The normal work schedule is Tuesday through Saturday, with standard hours from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM on weekdays and 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Saturdays. Initial interviews may be conducted before the application deadline. Equal Opportunity Employer

Keywords: Town of Garner, Rocky Mount , Recreation Program Manager (Athletics), Construction - Building Trades , Garner, North Carolina