Recreation Director (Outdoor Recreation)

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Parks & Recreation Department - Recreation Division
Location: 4600 E. 63rd Street
Pay: $20.48 to $30.71 per hour

Schedule: Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.

Application Deadline: May 18, 2026


Responsibilities

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What you'll do

• Plan and lead outdoor recreation and camp programs to deliver safe, inclusive, and engaging experiences that keep participants active and connected
• Recruit, train, and supervise staff and volunteers to ensure programs are well-run, properly staffed, and aligned with safety and performance standards
• Monitor program quality and participation by gathering feedback, reviewing attendance, and adjusting activities to improve outcomes
• Oversee daily operations and logistics including facility setup, equipment use, and maintaining clean, safe program spaces
• Ensure safety and compliance by enforcing policies, monitoring activities, and addressing facility or equipment concerns promptly
• Serve as a community and department representative by supporting participants and guardians, partnering with local organizations, and promoting programs

What success looks like

• Programs run smoothly, safely, and on schedule
• Staff and volunteers are well-trained, supported, and clear on expectations
• Participants and guardians report positive experiences and strong customer service
• Facilities, equipment, and supplies are maintained in safe, ready-to-use condition
• Budgets, fees, and records are accurate and compliant with City policies

What you get

• Leadership experience: Direct oversight of staff, volunteers, and programs
• Career growth: Skill development in supervision, budgeting, and program management
• Job stability: A structured role within a public service department
• Supportive environment: Training, clear expectations, and collaborative teams

Why this role matters
Outdoor recreation programs create access to healthy activities, build community connections, and provide safe spaces for learning and fun. In this role, your leadership directly shapes the quality of experiences families and participants remember long after the season ends.
What you'll bring

• Experience leading programs, teams, or activities in recreation, camps, or community settings
• Strong communication and customer service skills
• Ability to manage logistics, schedules, and multiple priorities
• Comfort enforcing safety standards and guiding staff performance
• Basic budgeting, record-keeping, or administrative skills
• A collaborative, dependable approach and willingness to learn

Qualifications

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REQUIRES

• An accredited Bachelor's degree; OR high school graduation and 4 years of experience in recreation management, community programming, sports management, wildlife management, arts programming, or therapeutic recreation.
• Must pass a preemployment drug screen as prescribed by the City.
• May be required to possess a valid State-issued driver's license in accordance with the City of KCMO policies.

PREFERENCES

• Experience with outdoor recreational activities

Other Information

Why You'll Love Working with Us - Core Employee Benefits

Comprehensive Health Coverage
Affordable medical, dental, and vision plans with multiple options and low employee contributions.

Generous Paid Time Off
Enjoy vacation, sick leave, and 13 paid holidays-with accruals that grow the longer you're with us.

Secure Retirement Planning
City-funded pension plan plus an optional 457 savings plan to help you build long-term financial security.

Support for Life's Big Moments
Paid parental and bereavement leave to help you navigate major life events with peace of mind.

Tuition Assistance
Get reimbursed for eligible education expenses-invest in your future while you work.

Income Protection
Short- and long-term disability coverage options to safeguard your earnings.

Life Insurance Provided
City-paid life insurance with the option to add more coverage for extra peace of mind.

Community Volunteer Leave
Take up to 8 hours annually to give back to causes you care about.

Want the Full Picture?
Click here for a complete benefits summary.

URGENT!!! CRITICAL RECRUITMENT INFORMATION

Applications and/or resumes are evaluated on the information received by the application deadline. Please ensure that your application or resume clearly demonstrates how you meet the minimum qualifications for the position for which you are applying, this includes providing all relevant educational dates and a detailed description of relevant work experience, including months/years of employment. Applications and/or resumes may not be considered if information is incomplete.

In order for a resume to be used in lieu of an application the resume must have been submitted online via the City's Applicant Tracking System.

Positions requiring a high school diploma/GED certificate must be obtained from a school/program accredited by the Department of Education and recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education.

The minimum education requirement for positions that allow for experience equivalency for an accredited degree is a high school diploma. Unless otherwise specified, an accredited degree must be obtained from a college or university listed with the U.S. Department of Education and recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education.
For positions with a salary grade of EX6 or higher that require an accredited degree, qualifying professional experience must be obtained AFTER the accredited degree is obtained.
Successful completion of a pre-employment criminal history/background check is required for all positions. Some positions require a post offer drug screen and/or physical.

If appointed, non-residents must obtain residency inside Kansas City, Missouri's city limits within nine months.

The City of KCMO is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and inclusion in the workplace. The City is committed to providing a workplace environment for its employees and citizens free from discrimination based on race, color, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, religion, age, disability, marital status, genetic information, sexual orientation, or gender identity. For more information, please see our EEO Policy

The City of KCMO is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process, please call 816-513-1908 or send an e-mail to accommodations@kcmo.org .

If claiming military veterans' preference points, you must attach a copy of your DD-214 or a DD-256 (for reservists). To claim veterans' points you must have served 180 days of regular active duty service and be discharged or released under honorable conditions during peacetimes or 90 days of active duty service, one (1) day during "wartime" and a last discharge or release under honorable conditions. (DOD) 38 U.S. Code • 4211).

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• City of Kansas City

• 816-513-1903

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