Recreation and Tourism Director

Job Description:

Recreation and Tourism Director

Description

THE RECREATION AND TOURISM DEPARTMENT 

The Recreation and Tourism Department provides recreation programming for all ages, parks activation, special events, tourism promotion and destination marketing, visitor engagement, and industry partnerships. 

 

The City recently completed a comprehensive Department Assessment that provides a strategic blueprint for operational improvements, organizational modernization, and departmental priorities. The new Director will lead implementation of these recommendations. 

 

The Director oversees a FY27 budget of $4.69 million, department staff, contractors, partnerships, and community stakeholders. A Tourism Manager and Recreation Manager report directly to the Director. 

THE POSITION 

Working closely with the City Manager and Assistant City Manager, the Director will lead programs and initiatives that shape Pismo Beach’s community and visitor experience. Responsibilities include: 

• Managing departmental operations, programs, projects, budgets, policies, events, recreation programs, visitor services, marketing, and promotional activities. 

• Developing recreation programs and community activities that promote quality of life, health, wellness, and engagement for residents of all ages and abilities. 

• Managing visitor-serving and tourism activities, including the Visitor Information Center, destination experiences, and City events. 

• Serving as Chair of the Special Events Committee and staff liaison to the Parks, Recreation, and Beautification Commission. 

• Developing tourism marketing, advertising, public relations, and promotional strategies while building partnerships with local businesses. 

• Representing Pismo Beach at trade shows, conferences, professional organizations, tours, and industry events while monitoring emerging recreation, tourism, travel, events, and marketing trends. 

 

The ideal candidate will be a visionary, strategic, and collaborative leader with exceptional communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills. The Director must effectively lead internally while building strong relationships with residents, community groups, businesses, hoteliers, regional partners, and other stakeholders. The successful candidate will bring expertise in community-serving leadership, recreation and tourism program development, and operational management. Emotional intelligence, integrity, transparency, strong judgment, and a solutions-oriented approach are essential. 

 

 SALARY & BENEFITS 

The salary range is $176,737–$214,822, depending on qualifications. The City also offers a hiring incentive program, including negotiable relocation assistance of up to $15,000. Key benefits include CalPERS retirement, a $17,000 annual City contribution to a 457 deferred compensation plan, a $2,500 monthly medical/dental/vision allowance, vacation and sick leave, 96 hours of annual administrative leave, 11 holidays plus two floating holidays, a cell phone stipend, and $50,000 of term life insurance. 

 

APPLICATION & SELECTION PROCESS 

Candidates must submit a cover letter and résumé by Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at: 

www.mosaicpublic.com/careers 

Confidential inquiries are welcomed to: 

Bryan Noblett | [email protected] | (916) 217-3696 

Salary:

$176,737–$214,822