Section Chief for Parks and Recreation - Charleston, SC

Colin Baenziger & Associates; Charleston (SC); On-site; USD 130,000 - 175,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Charleston seeks an inaugural Section Chief for Parks & Recreation, a senior leadership role shaping athletics, recreation, and parks maintenance across the city. The candidate will demonstrate a dynamic, can-do leadership style and strategic vision for public spaces and services.

The position requires a degree in Parks and Recreation Administration (or related field) with 15–19 years in local government, or a master's degree with 9–12 years.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Parks and Recreation Administration or related field; 15–19 years in local government.
• Master's degree in Public Administration or related field with 9–12 years in local government.
• Equivalent combination of education and experience acceptable.

Responsibilities

• Lead athletics, recreation, and parks maintenance initiatives.
• Provide executive leadership and strategic oversight.
• Collaborate with city departments to enhance public services.

Skills

Leadership

Public administration

Athletics program management

Parks maintenance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Parks and Recreation Administration

Master's degree in Public Administration

Job description

The City of Charleston is embarking on an exciting new chapter with the creation of its inaugural Section Chief for Parks & Recreation - 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.

The salary range is $130,000 to $175,050.