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Outdoor Recreation Program Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

City of Marion

PT Recreation Assistant Lead

Marion, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

... with program set-up, tear-down, and equipment management. * Communicate effectively with ... Ability to work outdoors under adverse weather conditions. * Ability to repetitively bend and stoop ...

City of Marion, Iowa

PT Recreation Assistant Lead

Marion, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

... with program set-up, tear-down, and equipment management. * Communicate effectively with ... Ability to work outdoors under adverse weather conditions. * Ability to repetitively bend and stoop ...

City of Marion

PT Recreation Assistant Lead

Marion, IA · On-site

$13/hr

... with program set-up, tear-down, and equipment management. * Communicate effectively with ... Ability to work outdoors under adverse weather conditions. * Ability to repetitively bend and stoop ...

Wartburg College

Community Recreation

Waverly, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Community Recreation Program Assistant Function of Position: Oversee recreational programming for ... Community Recreation Manager Function of Position: Oversee all activity for community rec youth ...

City of Marion, Iowa

PT Recreation Assistant

Marion, IA

$12/hr

Promote recreational programs within the community. * Provide general supervision and promote safe ... Ability to work outdoors under adverse weather conditions. * Ability to repetitively bend and stoop ...

City of Marion

PT Recreation Assistant

Marion, IA · On-site

$12/hr

Promote recreational programs within the community. * Provide general supervision and promote safe ... Ability to work outdoors under adverse weather conditions. * Ability to repetitively bend and stoop ...

City of Marion

PT Recreation Assistant

Marion, IA · On-site

$12/hr

Promote recreational programs within the community. * Provide general supervision and promote safe ... Ability to work outdoors under adverse weather conditions. * Ability to repetitively bend and stoop ...

City of Ankeny Iowa

Recreation Staff

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$11.25 - $16.75/hr

... and program instruction/assistance. Employees will provide support to individuals and groups ... Indoor/outdoor settings will vary with task Must be adaptive to all weather conditions.

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All JobsOutdoor Recreation Program JobsOutdoor Recreation Program Manager JobsOutdoor Recreation Program Manager Jobs in Iowa

Outdoor Recreation Program Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$36.2K

$100.9K

$147.5K

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

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for outdoor recreation program manager in Iowa is $100,934.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,700.00 and $124,500.00 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.
What are popular job titles related to Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs in Iowa? For Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Outdoor Recreation Program Manager job openings:
Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Outdoor Recreation Program Manager job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,934 per year, or $48.5 per hour.

Post Bac Outdoor Recreation Assistant

Grinnell College

Grinnell, IA • On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Grinnell College rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

483rd of 614 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The Physical Education, Athletics, & Recreation Department is seeking an Outdoor Recreation Assistant to assist with the logistical planning, coordination, and operation of the Grinnell Outdoor Recreation Program (GORP). GORP consists of off-campus adventure trips, an indoor climbing wall, and outdoor equipment rental. Responsibilities include assisting with the management of the climbing wall, assisting with the management of the outdoor equipment rental program, and supporting student trip leaders with logistics for off-campus adventure trips.
This role requires some travel (up to 30%) and the ability to work some nights and weekends.
Key Responsibilities
  • Assist with management of outdoor equipment rentals, including inventory, inspection, and reservations
  • Assist with management of the climbing wall by assisting with equipment inspections and performing spot checks on climbing wall staff
  • Support student trip leaders with trip planning and logistics; co-lead out-of-state trips with student trip leaders
  • Assist with the training of GORP student employees

*This role is a full-time term position, benefits-eligible, working 9 months (academic year), 1560 hours worked in the fiscal year. Eligible post-baccalaureate candidates must have completed their degree no later than May 2025.
Minimum Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree or commensurate advanced experience involving coursework or certifications in outdoor recreation or emergency preparedness.
  • 6 months or less of work experience.
  • Ability to drive minivans and large 11-passenger vans.
  • Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion
  • Plan, organize, and efficiently manage their workload.
  • Communicate effectively utilizing various modes of communication.

Preferred Requirements
  • CPR/First Aid/AED certification.
  • Wilderness medicine certification (wilderness first aid, wilderness advanced first aid, wilderness first responder, wilderness EMT)
  • Experience leading adventure trips.
  • Climbing wall instructor certification.
  • Experience with route setting.

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