Section Chief for Parks and Recreation

Virginia Recreation and Park Society; Charleston (SC); On-site; USD 130,000 - 175,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Charleston is creating its inaugural Section Chief for Parks - an executive leadership role shaping strategic innovation, operations, and exceptional public service in athletics, recreation, and parks maintenance.

The successful candidate will lead a comprehensive portfolio and drive excellence, leveraging a strong track record in local government management and a focus on community recreation and parks maintenance. A bachelor's or master's degree with extensive experience is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in specified fields with 15–19 years of progressively responsible local government experience.
• Or a Master's degree with 9–12 years of progressively responsible experience.
• Or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead Parks and Recreation department within city administration.
• Provide strategic innovation and operational excellence.
• Oversee athletics, recreation, and parks maintenance functions.

Education

Bachelor's degree in Parks and Recreation Administration, Public Administration, Landscape Architecture, Recreation Management, Sports Management, Environmental Science, Urban Forestry, Horticulture, Natural Resource Management, Community Development, Business Administration

Master's degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Parks and Recreation Administration, Recreation Management, Environmental Management, Landscape Architecture, Sports Management

Equivalent combination of education and experience

Job description

Salary: $130,000.00 - $175,050.00 Annually

Application Deadline: Sep 4, 2026

Administration

The City of Charleston is embarking on an exciting new chapter with the creation of its inaugural Section Chief for Parks - a newly established executive leadership role that reflects the City's commitment to strategic innovation, operational excellence, and exceptional public service.

Charleston's next Section Chief for Parks and Recreation will have a full and exciting portfolio, so the City is seeking a strong, energetic, and effective leader - someone dynamic, motivated, and experienced in all facets of athletics, recreation, and parks maintenance. There is plenty of meaningful work ahead, and this role is best suited for a highly driven professional with a true "can-do" attitude.

The position requires a bachelor's degree in Parks and Recreation Administration, Public Administration, Landscape Architecture, Recreation Management, Sports Management, Environmental Science, Urban Forestry, Horticulture, Natural Resource Management, Community Development, Business Administration, or a closely related field, with 15-19 years of progressively responsible experience in local government; or a master's degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Parks and Recreation Administration, Recreation Management, Environmental Management, Landscape Architecture, Sports Management, or a closely related field with 9-12 years of progressively responsible experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.