Associate Director, Wellness and Recreation Programs

University of Pittsburgh   Pittsburgh, PA   Full-time     Sports and Recreation / Fitness
Posted on April 4, 2024
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Associate Director, Wellness and Recreation Programs



As part of the Student Affairs Wellness team, Campus Recreation promotes the overall health and wellness of our entire community providing inclusive wellness, fitness, and recreation opportunities. As the Campus Recreation team prepares for opening of the new 9-story, 270,000 square foot recreation and wellness center, the Associate Director will have direct impact on areas relating to program visioning, planning, and implementation; fitness and studio spaces and equipment; operational program planning; transition to the new facility; as well as other aspects of the project.

The Associate Director of Wellness & Recreation Programs serves as a member of the Campus Recreation senior staff team and assists with department strategic planning, goal setting, and assessment; directing, planning, and implementing policy; budgeting and financial management; and supporting risk management planning and execution. The Associate Director oversees the management and administration of all program areas to meet the needs and interests of the Pitt community by leading dynamic, innovative, and collaborative programs encompassing fitness and wellness, intramurals, club sports, esports, outdoor and adventure pursuits, aquatics, outreach, and emerging initiatives. Additionally, this position supports and leads collaborative well-being initiatives within the Student Affairs Wellness Team and across campus, and also leads department entrepreneurial efforts. The Associate Director also provides professional staff leadership and supervision to three full-time staff and indirectly oversees five full-time staff; indirectly and directly supervises over 100 student staff; and oversees and leads professional and student staff training and development. As a leader and role model, the Associate Director enhances the experience and growth of student staff as they learn transferable life and career skills through their employment with Campus Recreation. Essential skills needed encompass multiple domains of programming, strategic planning and implementation, leadership, fiscal management, risk management, marketing and promotions, administration, supervision, and day to day program operations.

Review of applications will begin March 4, 2024.


Job Summary

Assists in long-term planning and oversight of a major college, campus, or University-wide student affairs office to ultimately enrich students' lives. Collaborates in strategic planning and implementation of departmental plans and programs. Oversees day-to-day operations and staff. Maintains performance measures and ensures success.


Essential Functions
  • Assists in long-term planning and management oversight of collegiate recreation programs.
  • Participates in the strategic planning for assigned areas and assists in developing and implementing the departmental strategic plan.
  • Develops plans and programs designed to enrich student lives through physical activity, recreation, sports, and outdoor experiential opportunities.
  • Establishes performance goals and measures to evaluate success.
  • Participates in formulating and implementing policies and procedures.
  • Supervises day-to-day program operations. Provides leadership, guidance and direction to professional and student staff.
  • Ensures that all programs and activities comply with University, state, and federal regulations.

The job duties outlined in this job description include common job responsibilities for this title and level of jobs and are not intended to cover every duty. The University reserves the right to assign other duties to employees that are not listed in this job description.


Physical Effort

Daily work includes both administrative office tasks as well as extensive work in high-use, participant-centric fitness and recreation facilities requiring routine mobility within the office, the facilities (indoor and outdoor recreation spaces and sports fields), and around campus. Involves routinely moving throughout spaces (100 plus yards multiple times per shift) and moving to/from facilities. Work includes lifting, carrying, and pushing/pulling/moving items (e.g., supplies, equipment, deliveries, etc.) up to 50 pounds. Occasionally needs to lift, carry, and push/pull/move more than 50 pounds.


The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.


The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.



Assignment Category: Full-time regular

Job Classification: Staff.Assistant Director - Student Affairs

Job Family: Academic & Student Services

Job Sub Family: Student Services

Campus: - | Pittsburgh

Minimum Education Level Required: Bachelor's Degree

Minimum Years of Experience Required: 5

Will this position accept substitution in lieu of education or experience: Combination of education and relevant experience will be considered in lieu of education and/ or experience requirement.

Work Schedule: Works a varied on-campus schedule, an assortment of hours and days, to ensure a superior participant and student employee experience.

Work Arrangement: Works a varied on-campus schedule, an assortment of hours and days, to ensure a superior participant and student employee experience.

Hiring Range: TBD Based Upon Qualifications

Relocation_Offered: No

Visa Sponsorship Provided: No

Background Check: For position finalists, employment with the University will require successful completion of a background check

Child Protection Clearances: The following PA Act 153 clearances and background checks are required prior to commencement of employment and as a condition of continued employment: PA State Police Criminal Record Check, FBI Criminal Record Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance.

Required Documents: Resume, Cover Letter

Optional Documents: Not Applicable





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