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How much do parks and recreation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for parks and recreation in the United States is $20.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by parks and recreation professionals, and how can they be addressed?

Parks and Recreation professionals often encounter challenges such as managing limited budgets, balancing diverse community needs, and maintaining facilities with constrained resources. Addressing these challenges typically involves creative problem-solving, effective communication with stakeholders, and building strong partnerships with local organizations. Additionally, professionals in this field must stay adaptable and proactive in seeking grants or alternative funding sources to enhance programs and services. Collaborating closely with team members and community volunteers also helps to maximize impact and ensure a positive experience for residents.

What are parks and recreation jobs?

Jobs in parks and recreation encompass various positions throughout the country, some of which take place in an office setting and others which, unsurprisingly, take place at parks and recreation facilities. Parks and recreation employees are government workers who strive to protect the environment and enhance the quality of life for people in their communities, operating recreation centers and creating low-cost or free options to enjoy the outdoors. Entry-level jobs include lifeguards, aquatic center or recreation coordinators, and parks maintenance workers. With some experience, you might transition into a career as a manager, supervisor, or even a parks and recreation director.

What are parks and recreation jobs?

Parks and recreation jobs involve managing, maintaining, and programming public parks, recreational facilities, and community spaces. These roles can include park rangers, recreation coordinators, groundskeepers, and program leaders who organize activities and ensure facilities are safe and enjoyable for the public. Employees in this field often work with local governments or community organizations to promote outdoor activities, healthy lifestyles, and environmental stewardship. The work can be both physically active and community-focused, offering opportunities to make a positive impact on public well-being.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a parks and recreation professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Parks and Recreation professional, you typically need a background in recreation management, environmental science, or a related field along with knowledge of program planning and facility operations. Familiarity with reservation systems, budgeting software, and certifications such as CPR/First Aid or Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) are often required. Strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help you engage the community and effectively manage teams or public interactions. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure safe, enjoyable, and well-organized recreational experiences for the public.

What is the difference between Parks And Recreation vs Recreation Therapist?

AspectParks And RecreationRecreation Therapist
Required CredentialsTypically a degree in recreation, leisure studies, or related fieldUsually requires a degree in recreation therapy, therapeutic recreation, or similar, often with certification
Work EnvironmentPublic parks, community centers, recreational facilitiesHealthcare settings, hospitals, rehabilitation centers
Employer & IndustryMunicipal, state, or federal government, community organizationsHealthcare providers, hospitals, mental health facilities
Common Search & ComparisonFocus on community recreation and public programsFocus on therapeutic activities for health and recovery

While both roles involve promoting leisure and activity, Parks And Recreation professionals primarily work in community and public settings to organize recreational programs. Recreation Therapists focus on using recreation as a therapeutic tool to improve health outcomes in clinical environments.

More about Parks And Recreation jobs
What cities are hiring for Parks And Recreation jobs? Cities with the most Parks And Recreation job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Parks And Recreation jobs? The most popular types of Parks And Recreation jobs are:
What states have the most Parks And Recreation jobs? States with the most job openings for Parks And Recreation jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Parks And Recreation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Parks And Recreation jobs are:
Parks And Recreation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Parks And Recreation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,252 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Director of Parks and Recreation

City of Davenport

Davenport, IA

$140K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

City Of Davenport (Iowa) rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

218th of 842 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Definition Lead the future of parks, recreation, and community spaces in one of Iowa's most vibrant cities. The City of Davenport is seeking a visionary leader to guide a dynamic Parks and Recreation Department, shaping exceptional experiences, enhancing public spaces, and enriching the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. Under administrative direction, the Director of Parks and Recreation provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for the City's Parks and Recreation Department and is responsible for planning, developing, and managing department programs, facilities, operations, personnel, budgets, and capital projects, directly or through subordinate staff, to ensure high-quality services that meet community needs and support the City's vision.

For additional details on this opportunity and information on the full compensation package - please read the Director of Parks & Recreation Brochure. Salary range is $140,000-$160,000 DOQ. Examples Of Duties Directs and oversees all Parks and Recreation Department operations, including parks, trails, open spaces, recreation programs, athletic facilities, and related assets.

Develops and implements departmental goals, policies, budgets, staffing plans, and long-range initiatives, including the Parks and Recreation Master Plan. Supervises personnel, manages recruitment and performance, and ensures effective service delivery and resource allocation. Leads capital improvement projects and oversees the maintenance, operation, and lifecycle management of facilities, infrastructure, and equipment.

Advises the City Administrator and City Council on parks, recreation, open space, and departmental matters. Serves as liaison to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and collaborates with residents, community organizations, and partner agencies to develop programs, facilities, and community initiatives. Pursues grants and funding opportunities.

Coordinates activities with other departments and external organizations. Ensures compliance with applicable laws and safety standards Performs related duties as assigned. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Recreation, Physical Education, Landscape Architecture, Park Planning and Design, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a closely related field, and eight (8) years of progressively responsible parks and recreation experience, including at least five (5) years in a management role; or an equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Must possess a valid driver's license and maintain throughout duration of appointment. Must pass a background check as prescribed by the City of Davenport. Must live in the City of Davenport within prescribed time period.

Knowledge and Skills Knowledge of: Parks and recreation administration, planning, programming, and facility management. Municipal government operations, budgeting, purchasing, and public administration. Capital improvement planning, project management, and contract administration.

Applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, safety standards, and risk management principles. Personnel management, employee development, performance evaluations, and labor relations. Strategic planning, organizational development, and performance measurement.

Grant development, administration, and revenue-generation strategies. Community engagement, public relations, and customer service practices. Skill and Ability to: Provide effective leadership, supervision, and direction for diverse departmental operations.

Develop and manage budgets, resources, and financial performance. Plan, organize, and oversee multiple programs, projects, and priorities simultaneously. Build and maintain productive relationships with elected officials, advisory boards, community organizations, staff, and residents.

Interpret and apply applicable laws, regulations, policies, and procedures. Utilize technology and software related to budgeting, project management, recreation management, and office operations. Foster a positive, accountable, and collaborative work environment.

Respond effectively to community concerns, emergencies, and changing operational needs.

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