Campus Recreation Operations Program Director I

Campus Recreation at the University of Houston-System is dedicated to providing a wide array of recreational opportunities and facilities aimed at enhancing the student experience, promoting physical wellness, and fostering community engagement. As an essential part of the university ecosystem, the department offers state-of-the-art recreational centers, well-maintained sports fields, courts, and wellness programs designed to encourage a healthy, active lifestyle for students, faculty, and staff. The department is committed to excellence in service, facility management, and program innovation to meet the evolving needs of a diverse campus community.

The University of Houston is seeking a highly qualified Program Director of Operations for its Campus Recreation department. This full-time role carries a salary range between $56,800 and $64,600 and involves leadership and administrative responsibilities essential for the effective operation of several key recreation facilities, including the Campus Recreation and Wellness Center, Gertner Field, CRWC Field, and tennis courts. The Program Director of Operations plays a pivotal role in ensuring the department’s mission and strategic objectives are carried out efficiently by managing daily operations, overseeing staff, budgeting, and long-term planning efforts.

The position requires directing the recruitment, training, supervision, evaluation, and scheduling of operations staff to maintain optimal service levels and support departmental initiatives. The Program Director will lead efforts related to facility inspections, cleanliness, maintenance, and risk management, ensuring that all activities and facilities comply with university policies as well as local, state, and industry standards. Additionally, the director will manage partnerships across the division, academic units, and community organizations, enhancing collaboration and optimizing facility use for large-scale events and rentals.

A key aspect of this role includes administrative functions such as budget development and oversight, financial record maintenance, payroll processing, and the preparation of detailed reports to support strategic planning and assessment. Candidates must be prepared to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, to meet the needs of the department’s operational schedule. The university values a candidate who can analyze program trends and adjust methodologies to ensure continuous progress toward activist goals.

The ideal candidate should have at least three years of directly related professional experience or equivalent education as the department is willing to consider education in lieu of experience and vice versa. A thorough understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of program management within recreation or a related field is necessary to succeed in this role. The Program Director will also be involved in grant administration and may participate in preparing proposals for funding from state, federal, and private agencies.

In summary, the Program Director of Operations position at Campus Recreation is a vital leadership role that combines operational management, staff oversight, financial stewardship, and strategic program development. It offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute to the health and wellness initiatives on campus, ensuring the highest standards of recreational service and facility management.