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Outdoor Recreation Program Manager Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

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Outdoor Recreation Program Manager information

See Ohio salary details

$36.6K

$102.2K

$149.3K

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

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for outdoor recreation program manager in Ohio is $102,162.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,600.00 and $126,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 popular job titles related to Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs in Ohio?

For Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs in Ohio look for?

The top searched job categories for Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs in Ohio are:

What cities in Ohio are hiring for Outdoor Recreation Program Manager jobs?

Cities in Ohio with the most Outdoor Recreation Program Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Outdoor Recreation Program Manager job openings in Ohio as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,162 per year, or $49.1 per hour.

Recreation Program Administrator

Dayton, OH • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Develop, supervise, and oversee recreational programs and events for all age groups.

  • Manage the operation of recreation facilities such as pools and sports arenas, including planning and implementing related programming.

  • Plan, coordinate, and manage special events, teen programs, and recreational activities at city recreation centers.


Job description

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Responsibilities

The Recreation Program Administrator (RPA) is a multi-incumbent management position requiring strong organizational, oral, and written communication skills, along with the use of sound judgment to oversee and manage the City's Recreation Centers. The RPA develops and supervises City sponsored recreational programs and events for all age groups which includes arranging, scheduling, and securing necessary instructional, supervisory, and volunteer personnel to carry out such programs. RPAs respond to and resolve difficult and/or sensitive requests or complaints from citizens or interested community groups. The incumbent administers joint use agreements with school districts; establish affiliation agreements with other organizations and collaborates with local and state organizations. The RPA assists in the preparation of federal and state grants; and participates in the design, preparation, and distribution of public advertisement such as activity guides, press releases, brochures, pamphlets, flyers, web site updates, and printed schedules. The Recreation Program Administrator prepares estimates of activity costs and revenue used in preparing budget requests, as well as prepares requisitions and maintains inventory for procurement of supplies and equipment. Incumbents will be assigned to one of the specialty areas based on experience but are expected to develop a working knowledge in each of the other specialty areas. All incumbents in this position must stay abreast of new technologies and changes in the Recreation industry to offer the best services possible to the public.\r\n\r\n\r\nThe current vacancy oversees Camps, After School & Senior Recreation.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAQUATICS & FITNESS/WELLNESS - Manages the operation of the indoor pools located at each of the City's respective recreation centers. Responsible for the planning and implementation of aquatics programming such as aquatic fitness classes and swimming lessons.\r\n\r\n\r\nYOUTH & ADULT SPORTS PROGRAMS - Manages the operation of the City's outdoor sports arenas (Kettering Field Complex, Jim Nichols Tennis Center, and Howell Field). Responsible for the planning and implementation of youth and adult sports leagues at each of the City's respective recreation centers, i.e. volleyball, softball, baseball, basketball, etc.\r\n\r\n\r\nCAMPS, AFTER SCHOOL & SENIOR RECREATION - Manages recreational programming at each of the City's respective recreation centers. Responsible for the planning and implementation ofsenior programming such as art, dance, wellness, etc., summer camps and after school programming.\r\n\r\n\r\nSPECIAL EVENTS, GENERAL RECREATION & TEEN PROGRAMMING - Responsible for planning the City of Dayton's special events such as music festivals, fireworks display, and other community events in addition to teen programming and general activities such as open gym, open swim, etc.\r\n\r\n

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Recreation, Physical Education, Sports Medicine, Leisure Services, Business Administration, Communications, or a closely related field AND 3 years of experience in recreation or a closely related field (2 of the 3 years must have been in a full-time paid supervisory, leadership or administrative position).\r\n\r\n\r\nDegree must be from a college or university that is accredited by the U.S. Department of Education through the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools Higher Learning Commission or equivalent region. \r\n

Certifications

Must obtain and maintain a valid First Aid and Adult/Child CPR with AED certification within 150 days of employment.\r\n\r\n\r\nWithin 12 months of appointment, must obtain a Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) certification and maintain as a term and condition of continued employment.\r\n\r\n\r\nIncumbents assigned to the division of Recreation & Youth Services (RYS) must obtain and maintain a Certified Pool Operator certification (CPO) within the first 12 months of employment.\r\n

License Requirements

Must possess a valid driver's license at time of appointment and maintain thereafter as a term and condition of continued employment.\r\n

Notes

Applications must specifically address each of the minimum qualifications, directly showing how each is met.\r\n Background Check\r\nA background investigation and evidence of Employment Authorization and Identity is required prior to employment.All candidates must pass any level of background investigation applicable to the position, including current city employees seeking transfer, promotion, demotion, etc. into a classified position.\r\nMedical Examination & Drug and Nicotine Testing\r\nFinal appointment is contingent upon the applicant passing a job-related medical examination including drug screen. Applicants offered employment with the City will be required to pass a nicotine screening. Newly hired employees must remain tobacco and nicotine free as a condition of continued employment. The Tobacco and Nicotine Free Hiring Policy does not apply to current City employees.\r\nAn Equal Employment Opportunity Employer\r\nM/F/H\r\n\r\n

Benefits

Click here for Benefit information.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Employment Type: NA