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Recreation Associate Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

WellTech Partners

Associate Dentist

Portland, ME · On-site

About the job Associate Dentist Associate Dentist Family & Cosmetic Dentistry Location: Portland ... Enjoy walkable downtown streets, local coffee shops, nearby hiking and outdoor recreation, and ...

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Recreation Associate information

See Portland, ME salary details

$8

$16

$29

How much do recreation associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreation associate in Portland, ME is $16.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $17.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a recreation associate do?

A Recreation Associate is responsible for organizing, leading, and assisting with recreational activities and programs for individuals or groups. They work in settings such as community centers, parks, resorts, or recreational facilities, ensuring that activities are safe, fun, and engaging. Duties often include setting up equipment, supervising participants, and providing customer service. Recreation Associates may also help with scheduling events, maintaining facilities, and promoting programs to the community. Their goal is to enhance the overall experience of participants and encourage active lifestyles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a recreation associate?

To thrive as a Recreation Associate, you need knowledge of recreational programming, basic first aid, and customer service skills, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with scheduling software, facility management tools, and CPR/first aid certification is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, teamwork, and the ability to motivate and engage participants set outstanding Recreation Associates apart. These skills ensure safe, enjoyable, and well-organized recreational experiences that meet the needs of diverse groups.

What are some common challenges faced by recreation associates, and how can they be managed on the job?

Recreation Associates often encounter challenges such as managing large or diverse groups, handling unexpected schedule changes, and ensuring participant safety during activities. To address these, strong communication and organizational skills are essential, as is the ability to stay calm under pressure. Teamwork with other staff members and proactive planning can help mitigate issues, while staying up to date with safety protocols ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for all participants.

What is the difference between Recreation Associate vs Recreation Coordinator?

AspectRecreation AssociateRecreation Coordinator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; CPR/First Aid certifications often requiredSimilar certifications; may require additional experience or certifications
Work EnvironmentCommunity centers, parks, recreational facilitiesSame as Recreation Associate, often with more planning responsibilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist in program delivery, supervise activities, ensure safetyPlan, organize, and oversee recreational programs and events

Recreation Associates typically support recreational activities and supervise participants, while Recreation Coordinators take on more planning and organizational duties. Both roles work in similar environments and require comparable certifications, but Coordinators have greater responsibility for program development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Recreation jobs in Portland, ME?

The most popular types of Recreation jobs in Portland, ME are:

What cities near Portland, ME are hiring for Recreation Associate jobs?

Cities near Portland, ME with the most Recreation Associate job openings:

Recreation Associate jobs near you

Director of Therapeutic Recreation / Activities

National Health Care Associates Inc.

Kennebunk, ME • On-site

$57K - $64K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

National Health Care Associates rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

A Great Place to Work

Kennebunk is a proud affiliate of National Health Care Associates. As a Certified Great Place to Work, we think that you are going to love it here. Your work will be meaningful to you. You will make a genuine difference in the lives of our aging guests and the families that love them. You will enjoy lasting bonds with the families you meet and with the teams you work on. And if you desire, you will experience real career growth where your expertise and dedication is valued and appreciated. We invite you to join our team!

Location:  158 Ross Road, Kennebunk, Maine, 04043


What You'll Do:

* Activities Director / Long Term Care & Skilled Nursing Facility * 

As a Director of Therapeutic Recreation / Activities, you will develop and oversee a vibrant and engaging activities program in our communities.  Your creative and compassionate approach will contribute to the overall well-being and happiness of those we serve.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop, implement, and oversee therapeutic recreation programs for residents
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to assess residents' needs and preferences
  • Provide leadership and guidance to the therapeutic recreation team
  • Organize and facilitate a variety of opportunities for entertainment, exercise, relaxation, and expression while fulfilling residents' basic psychological, social, and spiritual needs
  • Create a warm and inclusive environment that encourages resident participation
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of programs and make adjustments as needed
  • Assist the families of physically, emotionally, and cognitively impaired individuals to explore appropriate hobbies and leisure activities

If you're passionate about creating meaningful and engaging recreational programs for seniors, in an environment where your expertise and dedication are valued and appreciated, we invite you to join our team as a Director of Therapeutic Recreation / Activities.  


What We Offer

As an affiliate of National Health Care, our Kennebunk team enjoys:

  • Competitive compensation and benefits package
  • Comprehensive training and mentorship
  • Opportunities for professional growth and development
  • Supportive and collaborative work environment
  • The chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our residents

USD $57,000.00 - USD $64,000.00 /Yr.

What You'll Bring:

Qualifications of a Director of Therapeutic Recreation / Activities:

  • Bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Recreation or a related field
  • Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) credential preferred
  • Proven experience in developing and leading therapeutic recreation programs
  • Strong organizational and leadership skills
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
  • Compassion and empathy in working with seniors
  • Interest in the needs of the aged and the chronically ill with the ability to work with both
  • Creative mindset with excellent organizational interpersonal skills
  • Ability to collaborate with team members, residents, and families to create a positive and inclusive environment 

We Hire for Heart!

National Health Care Associates (National) is proud to be a family-run organization since 1984. Like family, each of National’s centers are unique but share common values: Kindness, Service, Compassion and Excellence.  Today, our centers include more than 40 premier providers of short-term rehabilitation, skilled nursing, and post-hospital care including several named “Best Of” by US News & World Report.  When you join the team at a National center, you join a team that provides life-changing care to thousands of patients, residents, and families in a Great Place to Work Certified environment.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status.

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