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Community Recreation Programmer Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Program Assistant (Mature Adults)

NC · On-site

$18.83 - $22.89/hr

... better community through the power of parks and recreation. Our talented team at is devoted to ... Six (6) months of experience in programming with Mature Adults (ages 55+). * Must be at least 18 ...

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Community Recreation Programmer information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$5

$22

How much do community recreation programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for community recreation programmer in Raleigh, NC is $22.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.45 and $22.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a community recreation programmer?

Community recreation programmers are professionals who design, organize, and coordinate recreational programs and activities for community centers, parks, or local organizations. Their work involves assessing the needs of the community, planning events or classes, overseeing program implementation, and sometimes managing budgets and staff. They aim to promote healthy living, social engagement, and well-being by offering a variety of recreational opportunities suitable for all age groups. Community recreation programmers often collaborate with local agencies, volunteers, and instructors to ensure programs are inclusive and effective.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a community recreation programmer?

To thrive as a Community Recreation Programmer, you need a background in recreation management or a related field, along with experience in organizing programs and events. Familiarity with scheduling software, registration systems, and first aid certification is often required. Strong communication, creativity, and problem-solving skills help build engaging programs and foster community relationships. These skills and qualifications are essential for creating safe, inclusive, and successful recreation experiences that meet community needs.

How does a community recreation programmer typically collaborate with other departments and organizations?

Community Recreation Programmers often work closely with other municipal departments, local schools, nonprofits, and volunteer groups to coordinate and promote recreational activities. They attend planning meetings, share resources, and collaborate on special events to ensure programs meet community needs and run smoothly. Strong communication and organizational skills are essential, as they frequently liaise between stakeholders, manage schedules, and adjust plans based on feedback or changing priorities.

What is the difference between Community Recreation Programmer vs Community Recreation Coordinator?

AspectCommunity Recreation ProgrammerCommunity Recreation Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in recreation, leisure studies, or related fieldSimilar educational requirements, often with additional certifications in CPR or first aid
Work EnvironmentWorks in community centers, parks, or recreational facilities, planning programs and activitiesWorks closely with the community, managing programs and coordinating staff or volunteers
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed by municipal parks and recreation departments, community organizationsUsed interchangeably in similar settings, focusing on program implementation and community engagement

The Community Recreation Programmer and Community Recreation Coordinator roles share similar educational backgrounds and work environments, focusing on developing and managing recreational programs for the community. The main difference lies in their scope: programmers often focus on planning and creating programs, while coordinators handle the overall coordination, staffing, and community outreach. Both roles are essential for fostering community engagement and promoting active lifestyles.

Infographic showing various Community Recreation Programmer job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,659 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Parks & Recreation Intern

Knightdale, NC • On-site

$17.79/hr

Internship

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

The Town of Knightdale is seeking a motivated college student to join our Parks, Recreation & Cultural Programs team for a 12-week spring semester internship. Working up to 40 hours per week, the intern will gain hands-on experience in recreation programming, special events, community engagement, marketing, promotions, and park operations. The intern will work closely with Parks & Recreation staff on departmental initiatives and complete a special project focused on an area of interest such as program development, marketing, sponsorships, facility evaluations, or community promotions.

This is a great opportunity for a student pursuing a degree in Recreation, Parks and Recreation Management, Event Management, Public Administration, or a related field to gain practical experience in a municipal Parks and Recreation environment. Under general supervision, assists with the development and implementation of community events and programs to support the Town's mission and core values. This position is classified as non-exempt and is subject to the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) overtime regulations.

PRIMARY TASKS: Assists with planning, organizing, and implementing recreation programs and special events. Processes event registrations, tracks attendance, and keeps records. Assists with front desk operations, including but not limited to answering phones, greeting patrons, and providing information.

Assists with the general upkeep of Parks & Recreation facilities by identifying maintenance needs, reporting concerns to staff, picking up litter, and assisting with event setup, breakdown, and the opening and closing of recreation facilities. Provides operational support for Parks & Recreation operations, assisting Park Attendants and other staff to maintain clean, safe, and welcoming facilities. Supports staff to create and distribute program promotional materials, including flyers, social media content, and event announcements.

Assists with community outreach efforts, including attending external events and acting as a representative of the department Completes a special project, coordinated with the Recreation Supervisor, that supports departmental initiatives such as program development, marketing and promotional strategies, or other operational improvements. Performs other duties as required. EQUIPMENT OPERATED: Computer with Microsoft Office applications, two-way radio, Town-owned vehicles, copier, scanner, shredder, telephone, and other equipment as assigned.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIP: This position reports to the Recreation Supervisor. WORKING CONDITIONS: This position is subject to outside environmental conditions, including but not limited to working in extreme hot and cold weather. Must be able to physically perform the basic life operations functions of reaching, standing, walking, lifting, fingering, grasping, talking, hearing, and performing repetitive motions.

Must be able to perform medium work exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally; 20 pounds frequently; and 10 pounds constantly. Must possess the visual acuity to prepare and analyze data and figures. Must be available to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.

JOB CONTEXT: This position is a 12-week internship working up to 40 hours per week, with a schedule determined by the Recreation Supervisor. This position is classified as limited service. Limited Service employees work less than 1,000 hours per year.

Evenings, weekends, and overtime are sometimes necessary to fulfill job duties. The stress level of the job is low. QUALIFICATIONS OF CLASS: Education: Graduation from an accredited high school or GED program required.

Current enrollment in an accredited college or university pursuing a degree in recreation, parks and recreation management, event management, public administration, or a related field. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: General knowledge of the techniques used in planning and implementing recreation activities. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with Town employees and the general public.

Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Ability to maintain professionalism and a positive attitude. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Must possess a valid driver's license. Ability to obtain CPR, AED, and First Aid certifications preferred.