Job Description
Position Details
Position Information
Recruitment/Posting Title
Director of Athletics & Recreation
Job Category
Staff & Executive - Athletics
Department
Newark Chancellor's Office
Overview
The Office of the Chancellor at Rutgers University - Newark is the central administrative authority for the campus. The OOC oversees strategic direction, operations and alignment with the mission and vision of Rutgers University. Serving as the executive leadership hub, the OOC is responsible for daily administration on campus, including students, faculty and staff; and including coordinated partnerships and outreach with external stakeholders.
Posting Summary
Rutgers University-Newark seeks a dynamic and visionary leader to serve as its Director of Athletics & Recreation. Reporting to the Chancellor, the Director of Athletics & Recreation provides strategic leadership, operational oversight, and fiscal management for Rutgers University-Newark's NCAA Division III intercollegiate athletics program, campus recreation, and fitness facilities and operations.
Rutgers University-Newark (RU-N) is a leading urban research university that embodies excellence, opportunity, and impact. As an anchor institution in the city of Newark, RU-N is committed to fostering academic achievement, civic engagement, and inclusive growth. The university serves a richly diverse student body and is nationally recognized for its programs that advance social mobility, community partnerships, and innovative scholarships. The Department of Athletics & Recreation is a vital part of this mission, providing students with opportunities to engage in healthy competition, physical fitness, and community building. The department oversees a robust NCAA Division III intercollegiate athletics program, comprehensive campus recreation offerings, and modern fitness facilities that serve the entire university community.
The Director of Athletics & Recreation will be responsible for and not limited to the following:
* Providing strategic leadership, operational oversight, and fiscal management for all athletic and recreation programs, services, and facilities. * Ensuring that Athletics and Recreation align with RU-N's anchor mission, student success priorities, and commitment to access, equity, inclusion, and community engagement. * Fostering a culture of academic and athletic excellence that enhances the student-athlete experience on and off the field. * Overseeing compliance with NCAA Division III and conference rules and regulations. * Developing and managing departmental budgets, resources, and employees to ensure effective and transparent operations. * Collaborating with campus and community partners to strengthen engagement, outreach, and support for athletics and recreation initiatives. * Promoting visibility and pride in Rutgers University-Newark athletics through strategic communication, fundraising, and alumni relations efforts. * Leading efforts to enhance facilities, programming, and services that support the health and well-being of all athletic students, faculty, and staff.
The Department of Athletics & Recreation plays a central role in shaping the Rutgers-Newark student experience by promoting teamwork, resilience, leadership, and wellness. Through inclusive programs and competitive excellence, the department contributes to the university's mission of preparing students to lead and thrive in a diverse and changing world.
FLSA
Exempt
Grade
10
Salary Details
Minimum Salary
143712.000
Mid Range Salary
181901.000
Maximum Salary
220090.000
Offer Information
The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate's qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university's broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent.
Benefits
Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include:
- Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage
- Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs
- Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options
- Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable)
- Life insurance coverage
- Employee discount programs
Position Status
Full Time
Working Hours
Standard Hours
37.50
Daily Work Shift
Work Arrangement
Union Description
Admin Assembly (MPSC)
Payroll Designation
PeopleSoft
Seniority Unit
Terms of Appointment
Staff - 12 month
Position Pension Eligibility
ABP
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
* Bachelor's degree in sports management, higher education administration, or a related field. * Minimum of 5-7 years of progressively responsible experience in collegiate athletics administration.
Certifications/Licenses
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
* Demonstrated understanding of and commitment to NCAA Division III philosophy and compliance. * Proven ability to lead diverse teams and manage complex budgets effectively. * Familiarity with student-athlete welfare, development, and needs. * Demonstrated commitment to student success, equity, and inclusion in athletics and recreation. * Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across a wide range of stakeholders within the university community. * Commitment to ethical leadership and integrity in all aspects of departmental operations.
Preferred Qualifications
* Master's degree in a relevant discipline.
* Experience working in a public university or urban campus environment.
* Demonstrated success in fundraising, external relations, community engagement, or facility development.
Equipment Utilized
Physical Demands and Work Environment
* Position will require evening or weekend work to support departmental needs, specific programs, and campus initiatives at the request of the supervisor or campus leadership.
Special Conditions
Posting Details
Posting Number
25ST2446
Posting Open Date
11/26/2025
Special Instructions to Applicants
Regional Campus
Rutgers University-Newark
Home Location Campus
Rutgers University-Newark
City
Newark
State
NJ
Location Details
Pre-employment Screenings
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all pre-employment screenings.
Immunization Requirements
Under Policy 100.3.1 Immunization Policy for Covered Individuals, if employment will commence during Flu Season, Rutgers University may require certain prospective employees to provide proof that they are vaccinated against Seasonal Influenza for the current Flu Season, unless the University has granted the individual a medical or religious exemption. Additional infection control and safety policies may apply. Prospective employees should speak with their hiring manager to determine which policies apply to the role or position for which they are applying. Failure to provide proof of vaccination for any required vaccines or obtain a medical or religious exemption from the University will result in rescission of a candidate's offer of employment or disciplinary action up to and including termination.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of their race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law. As an institution, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply. For additional information please see the Non-Discrimination Statement at the following web address:
Job Tags
Full time, Seasonal work, Work at office, Flexible hours, Shift work, Weekend work, Afternoon shift,