Virginia Wesleyan University (VWU) invites applications for an energetic, student-centered leader to serve as Director of Recreation and Wellness. This key student engagement role oversees the university’s comprehensive recreation and wellness initiatives and plays a vital part in fostering a vibrant, health-focused campus environment.
The Director provides leadership for a broad range of programs including aquatics, fitness, recreational sports, intramurals, and outdoor recreation, designed to promote physical well-being and community engagement. The Director also oversees daily operations and student staffing for the Jane P. Batten Student Center, VWU’s 140,000-square-foot multi-use campus hub.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Provide operational oversight and leadership for staff of the Jane P. Batten Student Center and URec.
- Plan, schedule, implement, and assess programming for the Batten Student Center and URec.
- Recruit, hire, train, supervise, and evaluate student staff, including building supervisors, desk attendants, intramural officials, fitness room attendants, lifeguards, and rock wall staff.
- Serve on the Campus Events Team, assisting with scheduling and operational support for campus events hosted in the Batten Center and related facilities.
- Administer and coordinate the annual maintenance plan for the Batten Center.
- Manage the Recreation and Wellness budget, ensuring responsible and strategic use of resources.
- Oversee bi-weekly payroll for student employees.
- Establish, communicate, monitor, and evaluate facility operational policies, procedures, and usage guidelines.
- Identify and resolve facility and equipment issues through proactive troubleshooting.
- Maintain a flexible work schedule, including evenings and weekends as needed.
- Participate in campus activities and perform associated administrative duties.
- Perform additional responsibilities as assigned.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university required.
- Current CPO (Certified Pool Operator) or AFO (Aquatic Facility Operator) certification (or must obtain).
- Current certifications in Lifeguarding, First Aid, CPR, and AED Instruction (or must obtain).
- Certification for operation of the Alpine Tower (or must obtain).
- Proficiency with standard office equipment and computer applications.
- Demonstrated commitment to high-quality customer service.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to meet deadlines and performance expectations with minimal supervision.
- Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends.
- Ability to remain calm and effective in emergency situations.
- Working knowledge of aquatic and fitness equipment, and familiarity with facility upkeep and maintenance for the Batten Center and athletic facilities.
Application Process
Interested candidates should apply directly on the Virginia Wesleyan University career page.
About Virginia Wesleyan University
Virginia Wesleyan University (vwu.edu) is Coastal Virginia's premier university of the liberal arts and sciences. Situated on a 300-acre park-like campus in Virginia Beach, VWU annually enrolls more than 5,000 learners in all programs in all locations, including nearly 1,700 students in undergraduate, graduate and online programs. Students thrive in average class sizes of 12, and nearly 90 percent of new graduates are employed or enrolled in graduate school within one year of graduation. Through its Environmental Guiding Principles, the University incorporates a commitment to sustainability in every aspect of campus life. VWU is an inclusive community dedicated to scholarship and service grounded in the liberal arts and sciences, inspiring students to build meaningful lives through engagement in Coastal Virginia's dynamic metropolitan region, the nation and the world.
Location
Virginia Wesleyan has often been defined by its desirable and unique location in Coastal Virginia. Located in Virginia Beach, the University is just minutes from the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay on a beautiful 300-acre park-like campus. The area is home to a host of business, governmental, and cultural institutions, as well as rich historical and natural resources. Nestled in the heart of one of Virginia’s largest metropolitan areas, Virginia Wesleyan is physically insulated from the bustle of the city traffic, and yet the vast resources of its surrounding urban area are easily accessible. Our region is proud of its vibrant city life, sandy beaches, and rich history. Learn more at visitvirginiabeach.com/explore.
Statement of Non-Discrimination
Virginia Wesleyan University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants are considered on the basis of skills, experience, and qualifications without regard to race, religion, color, creed, gender, national and ethnic origin, age, marital status, covered veteran status, sexual orientation, the presence of non-job-related medical disability, or any other legally protected status.
