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Outdoor Recreation Program Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Recreation Program Manager Department: Recreation Department Reports To: Director of Recreation Safety Sensitive: Yes Supervisory Responsibilities: Supervise part-time, seasonal program or service ...

Recreation Program Manager Department: Recreation Department Reports To: Director of Recreation Safety Sensitive: Yes Supervisory Responsibilities: Supervise part-time, seasonal program or service ...

Recreation Program Manager

Waldorf, MD ยท On-site

$60K - $105K/yr

Program Manager will organize and lead recreational activities and assisting with other aspects of recreational programs. This position will manage daily operations at assigned Recreation facility.

$49K - $60K/yr

The Recreation Program Manager I is responsible for managing and supervising assigned recreation program areas and events for the Parks & Recreation Department. Key Responsibilities * Develops ...

The Recreation Program Manager II is responsible for the management and supervision of assigned recreation program areas and events for the Parks & Recreation Department. Key Responsibilities

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Outdoor Recreation Program Manager information

See salary details

$38.5K

$107.5K

$157K

How much do outdoor recreation program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for outdoor recreation program manager in the United States is $107,460.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,500.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Outdoor Recreation Program Manager vs Outdoor Recreation Specialist?

AspectOutdoor Recreation Program ManagerOutdoor Recreation Specialist
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in recreation, parks, or related field; certifications like CPR, First AidOften requires similar degrees and certifications, but may have less emphasis on management certifications
Work EnvironmentOversees programs, manages staff, plans activities, and coordinates resourcesConducts outdoor activities, leads groups, and provides instruction or guidance
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by parks departments, recreation centers, outdoor adventure companiesCommonly employed in outdoor education, adventure guiding, and community recreation

The main difference is that the Outdoor Recreation Program Manager focuses on overseeing and managing recreation programs, while the Outdoor Recreation Specialist primarily leads and conducts outdoor activities and instruction. Both roles require relevant certifications and work in similar environments, but the manager role involves more administrative responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Outdoor Recreation Program Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Outdoor Recreation Program Manager, you need expertise in program development, risk management, and outdoor leadership, often backed by a degree in recreation management or a related field. Familiarity with scheduling software, budgeting tools, and certifications such as Wilderness First Aid or CPR are typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and leadership abilities help in coordinating teams and ensuring participant safety. These skills ensure the successful delivery of safe, engaging outdoor experiences and efficient program operations.

What are some common challenges faced by Outdoor Recreation Program Managers, and how can they overcome them?

Outdoor Recreation Program Managers often navigate challenges such as unpredictable weather, participant safety, and resource management. They must be adept at contingency planning and risk assessment to ensure activities proceed smoothly and safely. Effective communication and collaboration with staff, volunteers, and external partners are crucial for adapting to last-minute changes and maintaining high-quality experiences. Staying current with industry best practices and fostering a culture of safety and flexibility helps managers overcome these challenges and succeed in their role.

What does an Outdoor Recreation Program Manager do?

An Outdoor Recreation Program Manager is responsible for planning, organizing, and overseeing outdoor activities and programs, such as hiking, camping, canoeing, or team-building events. They coordinate logistics, manage staff and volunteers, ensure participant safety, and may also handle budgeting and marketing for programs. Their work involves working closely with community organizations, schools, or public agencies to promote outdoor engagement and environmental stewardship. Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills are essential for success in this role.
More about Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs? Cities with the most Outdoor Recreation Program Manager job openings:
What states have the most Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs are:
Infographic showing various Outdoor Recreation Program Manager job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,460 per year, or $51.7 per hour.

Recreation Program Manager

Manheim Township

Lancaster, PA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Recreation Program Manager

Department: Recreation Department

Reports To: Director of Recreation

Safety Sensitive: Yes

Supervisory Responsibilities: Supervise part-time, seasonal program or service staff

Classification: Full-time, Exempt

Job Level: Manager

Driving Status: Yes

Work Environment: Work is usually performed in a normal office setting but may involve frequent traveling to various sites in the Township. Position may include work related duties on weeknights and weekends.

Summary

The Recreation Program Manager is responsible for the overall success of the programsย and services that are overseen. Duties include development, implementation,ย administration, supervision, and evaluation of assigned programs, activities, andย services.

Essential Functions

  1. Assist Director and Assistant Director of Recreation in delivery of department services through new and continued development of recreational programs. This includes an emphasis on Adult and Senior Programming.
  2. Supervise contracted, part-time and volunteer program and Overlook Activity Center staff; interview, recommend pay, assign tasks, discipline; schedule, provide orientation and training, provide follow up to ensure effective delivery of programs and services, resolve problems. Assist with employee recruitment for specialty positions.
  3. Provide comprehensive recreational opportunities; i.e. enrichment, sport, educational and single day community opportunities for Township residents; assess and evaluate effectiveness of service and future program needs through use of surveys, group meetings and interaction with program participants; plan and organize programs, i.e., determine availability of facilities, recommend and refine program policies and procedures, identify & schedule staff, determine costs, develop program schedules, inventory and order program supplies, review safety issues and provide information to advertise programs.
  4. Monitor program implementation and delivery to ensure objectives and goals of program are met; resolve problems or conflicts with staff, scheduling, facilities, participants; follow up on reports of accidents or incidents; evaluate program success through use of evaluation forms and informal feedback; maintain program records.
  5. Oversee the Overlook Activities Center (OAC) daily operational procedures. This includes oversight of OAC staff, public skate sessions, and private rentals within this facility.
  6. Facility rental management includes on-site meetings with renters (athletic fields and OAC) as needed, ensuring rental standards are met prior to and after a rental, communicating field conditions/facility issues with renters, and assist with after-hour on-call.
  7. Assist staff with ensuring rental agreements are staffed if necessary and facilitate permits in the absence of customer service specialist.
  8. Assist staff with attending MT youth sport organizational meetings, and communicate youth sport group expectations to both the Director of Recreation and the Youth Sport Groups.
  9. Assist program managers with the planning, execution, and substitution for department programs.
  10. Provide recommendations for operating budget to Director of Recreation for general programming administration areas, and OAC administration areas; ensure proper control of expenditures and efficient use of materials, equipment, and labor; recommend the purchase of materials and supplies; assess programs and activities for cost efficiency and effectiveness.
  11. Promote programming and activities by recommending written material, social media content, and working with communication staff on promotional initiatives.
  12. Respond to inquiries and complaints from the public; follow up with Director of Recreation as to appropriate course of action; meet with representatives of the public, Township, and agencies to discuss problems or questions regarding programs, projects or activities.
  13. Provide assistance to Management-level staff during leave time.
  14. Assist with frontline employees with job related duties as needed.

Related Functions

  1. Attend professional classes and seminars to keep abreast of developments or professional trends in recreation.
Physical Requirements
  1. Must be able to communicate effectively, listen attentively, and visually perceive information necessary to perform job duties.
  2. Ability to maintain a valid PA driver's license and drive a vehicle.

Competencies

  1. Comprehensive knowledge of Township policies, procedures, relevant state and federal laws and regulations, and Township ordinances related to applicable recreation programs.
  2. Thorough knowledge of management practices, including supervision, personnel development/training, budgeting, and administration of programs.
  3. Basic knowledge of computer applications for the department.
  4. Thorough knowledge of safety practices and procedures for recreational programs.

Skills

  1. Comprehension of computer applications.

Abilities

  1. Ability to apply management and supervisory principles to solve practical, everyday problems.
  2. Ability to evaluate programs and services, make recommendations to the Recreation Director and follow through with a plan of actions.
  3. Ability to effectively resolve complaints through proper investigation, mediation and/or action to correct problem.
  4. Ability to work with abstract ideas and visualize possible applications in planning for future programing or services.
  5. Ability to speak clearly, and effectively to the public and program participants.

Required Education and Experience

  1. Position requires at a minimum an Undergraduate degree in Recreation Management, Park Management, Leisure Studies, or a related field or 3 years' experience in a related field. An example of acceptable qualifications for this classification is a combination of education, experience and job training which indicates possession of the skills, knowledge and abilities listed above.
  2. Must have a Certified Parks and Recreation Professional certification, or must be required within 2 years of employment.
  3. Must have CPR/AED Certification or to obtain within 6 months of hire date.
Disclaimer

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.