"Recreation Center Operations Coordinator"

Position Summary

Why work at Villanova?

• Join a mission-driven organization. Since Villanova University's founding in 1842, we have been inspired by the values of truth, unity, and love, and are a community dedicated to service to others.
• Villanova has been included among the nation's best colleges and universities. VU's inclusion again in U.S. News & World Report's 2025 "Best Colleges" rankings is another indication of the University's continued prominence and forward momentum.
• Villanova's most precious asset is our people. As an employee, you will receive a holistic benefits package, generous paid time off, a competitive retirement savings plan, flexible work options, wellness programs including gym membership, professional development, tuition assistance, and more.

The Recreation Center Operations Coordinator is responsible for the day-to-day operations of Villanova's Recreation Center and surrounding outdoor recreational facilities. Primary responsibilities include operational oversight, personnel coordination, risk management, and the delivery of excellent customer service. The Coordinator works closely with Fitness & Recreation staff, University partners, and outside groups to support operational needs in the Dixon Center and adjacent recreational spaces. The role also serves as a key liaison with facility maintenance and custodial staff to ensure operational readiness and a positive member experience. Additionally, the Coordinator promotes fiscal responsibility by ensuring efficient student staffing practices, accurate payroll submissions, and the careful stewardship of equipment, supplies, and other University resources.

Villanova is a Catholic university sponsored by the Augustinian order. Diversity and inclusion have been, and will continue to be an integral component of Villanova University's mission. The University is an Equal Opportunity/ Affirmative Action employer and seeks candidates who understand, respect and can contribute to the University's mission and values.

Duties and Responsibilities

Recreation Operations Coordination

• Coordinates the daily operational needs of Villanova's Recreation Center and surrounding outdoor recreational facilities, ensuring consistent service, staffing support, and an inclusive member experience. Responsibilities:
  • Coordinate daily operational activities across the Recreation Center, Dixon Center, and adjacent outdoor recreation spaces.
  • Support on-shift activities by collaborating with Student Recreation Center Supervisors who assist with desk operations and frontline responsibilities.
  • Conduct routine walkthroughs to monitor facility activity, reinforce policy adherence, and assist in resolving operational questions or concerns.
  • Maintain a strong customer service presence and foster a welcoming environment for all facility users.
  • Assist in coordinating operational logistics for recreation events, reservations, and special activities.
  • Serve as an operational point of contact for Fitness & Recreation staff, University partners, and external groups using the facilities.
  • Assist with the on-site management of recreational programming as needed.

Student Employment & Scheduling Coordination

• Coordinates the administrative and operational components of the student worker program supporting recreation operations. Responsibilities:
  • Coordinate hiring logistics and onboarding steps for student employees working in recreation operations.
  • Prepare and submit student personnel action changes in accordance with established University processes.
  • Ensure student employee time and attendance submissions are completed accurately and within established deadlines.
  • Maintain records related to certifications, trainings, schedules, and employment status for student recreation staff.
  • Support Student Recreation Center Supervisors who assist with student schedule development and daily staffing adjustments.
  • Support performance-related processes, including informal feedback, check-ins, and relevant documentation.

Equipment & Operational Support

• Supports recreation-specific equipment coordination to ensure that operational tools and resources remain safe, organized, and functional. Responsibilities:
  • Coordinate maintenance needs for recreation-related equipment (e.g., fitness equipment, operational tools) by submitting service requests and tracking follow-up.
  • Monitor and communicate equipment issues identified during walkthroughs or reported by student staff.
  • Support cleaning and upkeep schedules for fitness and recreation equipment.
  • Maintain inventories of recreation equipment and operational supplies.
  • Assist with operational setups, equipment checks, and routine readiness tasks that support daily activities and events.
• Perform other duties and assist with projects as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Formal Education

• Bachelor's Degree required, preferably in Recreation Management, Sports Management, or a related field.
• Certification in First Aid, CPR, and AED required (or obtained within a specified period after hire).

Work Experience

• 0-2 years of experience in recreation operations, facility operations, campus recreation, athletics, hospitality, student development, or a related field.
• Relevant student employment, internships, or graduate assistantships may count toward experience.
• Experience working in a customer service or student-facing environment.

Work Skills

• Strong customer service skills and the ability to engage effectively with a diverse campus community.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks, adapt to changing operational needs, and make sound decisions in a dynamic facility environment.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and provide guidance to student employees.

Specific Job Knowledge

• Familiarity with recreation center operations, fitness environments, or campus recreation settings.
• Basic knowledge of strength training and cardiovascular equipment functionality and safety.
• Understanding of risk management principles and customer service expectations in recreational settings.
• Commitment to student development, wellness, and fostering an inclusive, supportive environment.

Equipment Knowledge

• Proficiency with standard computer applications (e.g., Microsoft Office, email, scheduling tools).
• Ability to learn recreation management software and equipment maintenance workflows.

Other

• Ability to work some evenings and weekends based on facility needs.
• Ability to perform routine physical tasks required for equipment checks, operational setups, and facility walkthroughs.

Preferred Qualifications

Formal Education

• Master's Degree preferred.

Work Experience

• 1-2 years of experience in collegiate recreation, fitness center operations, athletics, or campus-based student employment environments.
• Experience supervising, mentoring, or training student employees.
• Experience coordinating schedules or supporting time and attendance processes.
• Experience supporting program logistics, event operations, or on-site recreation programming.

Specific Job Knowledge

• Knowledge of recreation center operations, including facility flow, equipment safety, and customer service expectations in fitness and recreation environments.
• Understanding of student development principles and effective practices for supporting and guiding student employees.
• Familiarity with risk management practices applicable to recreation facilities, including emergency response procedures and safety protocols.
• Knowledge of recreation management software, check-in systems, or facility scheduling platforms.
• Understanding of best practices within collegiate recreation, informed by professional standards such as those from NIRSA (Leaders in Collegiate Recreation).

Equipment Knowledge

• Extensive familiarity with the functionality and set-up of a variety of fitness and recreation equipment.

Other

• Demonstrated engagement in professional development for collegiate recreations, including participation in workshops, conferences, or involvement in NIRSA or similar associations.

Physical Requirements and/or Unusual Work Hours

Working Conditions/Environment

• Regular lifting & carrying of fitness and recreation equipment. Must be able to lift 45 lbs.
• Some early morning, late evening, and weekend hours required.
• May be asked to perform duties at outdoor recreational facilities, in various seasons with the possibility of inclement weather.

Salary Posting Information

This position falls within salaried grade 12 and the range for this position is $54,300-$57,200. The final salary will be determined with consideration of several factors including the selected candidate's qualifications, department budget availability, market data, and internal equity.

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