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Outdoor Recreation Program Manager Jobs in California

City of Tustin

Recreation Program Assistant

Tustin, CA · On-site

$24/hr

... Recreation Program Assistant. This recruitment will be used to fill two vacancies that offer an ... Candidates who can manage changing priorities and work comfortably in both office and outdoor ...

TERI Inc

Recreation Program Supervisor

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$30/hr

The Recreation Program Supervisor is responsible for overseeing and expanding the Out of Home ... Onsite Fitness Center & Outdoor Fitness Court - Convenient, no-cost access to exercise facilities

CNIC Careers

$22/hr

... Recreation program that may include special events, recreation information/resources, command ... space management, bowling, Library, Liberty, grab-n-go, movies, and outdoor recreation.

US Department of the Navy

$22/hr

... Recreation program that may include special events, recreation information/resources, command ... space management, bowling, Library, Liberty, grab-n-go, movies, and outdoor recreation.

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Outdoor Recreation Program Manager information

See California salary details

$38K

$106.1K

$154.9K

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

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for outdoor recreation program manager in California is $106,053.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,500.00 and $130,800.00 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?

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.
What are popular job titles related to Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs in California? For Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Outdoor Recreation Program Manager job openings:
Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs near you

Recreation Program Manager - Aquatics

Olathe

Simi Valley, CA

$60K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

If you are a current City of Olathe employee, please click this link to apply through your Workday account.

Employment Type

Full Time


Job Summary

Do you have experience in recreation programming? Are you passionate about water and ready to dive into a fun and rewarding career? We're looking for an enthusiastic and dynamic Aquatics Manager to lead our team and ensure every guest has a splash-tastic experience!

We pride ourselves on offering top-notch aquatic programs and a safe, enjoyable environment for all our guests. Our facilities include a variety of pools, water slides, and recreational areas designed to cater to swimmers of all ages and skill levels. We are seeking an experienced and motivated leader to oversee all aquatic operations and ensure the highest standards of safety and service.

The City of Olathe offers competitive compensation and benefits, including tuition reimbursement, eight weeks of paid parental leave, and an onsite health clinic providing free onsite physical and behavioral healthcare for employees enrolled in the City's medical coverage. You can check out the full benefits package online.

Starting Yearly Salary Range: $60,320 -$75,283 (based on experience and qualifications)


For more details, review the full job details and requirements below.

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

  • Develops, organizes, schedules and supervises assigned recreation program areas, events and facilities with main focus in school age children; recruits, hires, supervises, and evaluates recreation staff for the assigned recreation program areas (regular, seasonal, part-time and/or volunteer); ensures the safety and wellbeing of program participants by performing extensive screening of personnel; manages and coordinates recreation staff training in appropriate safety practices and health risk issues for the assigned program areas; monitors and evaluates the quality, responsiveness, efficiency and effectiveness of assigned recreation program areas.

  • Fosters community involvement in support of assigned program areas including public and private partnerships, local and national agencies, school districts, not-for-profit boards and special interest groups, and other municipal agencies; works with marketing and communication team to prepare and distribute program marketing materials; ensures programs are marketed and evaluated effectively while using feedback to make improvements; makes recreation program presentations to the public, City Council, and others in the community as needed.

  • Collaborates with the infrastructure, facility maintenance and asset management teams as the liaison for assigned programs; ensures compliance with the American's with Disabilities Act (ADA) by making program and facility accommodations as necessary.

  • Manages the development and administration of the division's annual budget which includes the forecast of funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials and supplies, and the forecast of recreation fee revenues for the assigned recreation program areas; assists in the development and implementation of City and Department goals, objectives, policies, and priorities for assigned recreation program areas.

Qualifications

Experience: Three years of increasingly responsible experience in recreation programming is required along with two years of administrative or supervisory experience.

Education: A bachelors degree with major course work in Recreation Administration, Leisure Services, or a related field is required. Additional equivalent experience may substitute for degree.

Licenses & Certifications: A valid driver's license with favorable driving record is required. Specific certifications and licenses relevant to program area responsibilities may be required.

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