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Recreation Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Recreation Youth Support Counselor

Syosset, NY ยท On-site

$14.50 - $19.75/hr

Recreation Youth Support Counselor ID: 100883 Location: Syosset, NY Department: L.I. Residential Programs More about this job > Description LOCATION: Syosset, NY REPORTS TO: Recreation Coordinator ...

Recreation Youth Support Counselor

Syosset, NY ยท On-site

$14.50 - $19.75/hr

Recreation Coordinator DEPARTMENT: L.I. Residential Programs Recreation SCHEDULE: Full Time Onsite $1,000 Hiring Incentive AGENCY BACKGROUND: MercyFirst is a not-for-profit human and social service ...

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Recreation Counselor information

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How much do recreation counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreation counselor in the United States is $17.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a recreation counselor?

Recreation Counselors are professionals who plan, organize, and lead recreational activities for groups, such as children, teens, or adults, in settings like camps, community centers, or after-school programs. Their main role is to ensure that participants are engaged in safe, fun, and meaningful activities that promote social interaction, physical activity, and personal growth. They may also be responsible for supervising participants, managing equipment, and ensuring that activities run smoothly. Recreation Counselors often work as part of a team and play a key role in creating a positive and inclusive environment.

What is the difference between Recreation Counselor vs Camp Counselor?

AspectRecreation CounselorCamp Counselor
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; CPR/First Aid certifications often requiredHigh school diploma or equivalent; CPR/First Aid certifications often required
Work EnvironmentCommunity centers, recreational facilities, parksSummer camps, day camps, overnight camps
Employer & IndustryMunicipalities, non-profits, schoolsCamp organizations, summer programs
Job FocusOrganizing recreational activities for diverse groupsSupervising children and teens during camp activities

Both Recreation Counselors and Camp Counselors work in recreational settings and require similar certifications. However, Recreation Counselors typically work in community centers or parks, focusing on a variety of recreational activities, while Camp Counselors primarily work in summer or overnight camps supervising children. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right fit for their skills and interests.

What are some common challenges recreation counselors face when working with diverse groups of participants?

Recreation Counselors often work with participants of varying ages, backgrounds, and abilities, which can present challenges in ensuring that activities are inclusive, engaging, and accessible for everyone. Adapting programs to suit different needs while maintaining group cohesion requires creativity, patience, and strong communication skills. Counselors must also be prepared to manage conflicts and foster a positive group dynamic, all while ensuring safety and adhering to organizational guidelines.

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

To thrive as a Recreation Counselor, you need a background in recreation, education, or a related field, along with experience in activity planning and group supervision. Familiarity with program management software, first aid/CPR certification, and knowledge of safety protocols are typically required. Creativity, strong leadership, and excellent interpersonal skills help you engage participants and foster a positive environment. These skills are crucial for ensuring participant safety, effective program delivery, and creating enjoyable, inclusive recreational experiences.
What cities are hiring for Recreation Counselor jobs? Cities with the most Recreation Counselor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Recreation Counselor jobs? The most popular types of Recreation Counselor jobs are:
What states have the most Recreation Counselor jobs? States with the most job openings for Recreation Counselor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Recreation Counselor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,491 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Activities & Recreation Counselor (Part-Time Evenings) (59971)

Adams & Associates, Inc.

Devens, MA โ€ข On-site

$18/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Shriver Job Corps Center provides students aged 16-24 with free hands-on vocational training and the opportunity to earn their High School Diploma or Equivalent. Our academic and career training programs are accredited and lead to national industry-recognized credentials.
Our 21-acre campus is nestled away minutes off of Route 2 in Devens, MA. We service between 200 and 300 students at any given time with rolling admissions weekly. Most students reside on campus, while some commute daily. Our staff value the student experience and often cite the personal impact of what we do as a major factor of employment satisfaction. In addition, we have amenities that are open for staff to utilize such as a gym, basketball courts, full-service cafeteria, and more as well as full benefits packages offered to eligible employees.
Job Description
  • Responsible for working with Recreation team to provide students with a comprehensive and diverse recreation program.
  • Promotes health and wellness through overseeing the recreation activities as outlined on the approved recreation schedule.
  • Follows all integrity guidelines and procedures and ensures no manipulation of student data.
  • Coordinates recreation activities with CPP and Social Development to include evening programming.
  • Coordinates recreation and leadership activities/programs with Center and local community resources.
  • Ensures safe practices and program compliance within prescribed safety guidelines.
  • Documents student participation and accountability during recreation activities.
  • Maintains inventory of equipment and material and controls their use. Recommends purchase of specific equipment. Performs repairs on equipment as needed.
  • Responsible for the overall appearance, condition and organization of the recreation department facilities.
  • May oversee student recreation aide program.
  • Assist with dormitory coverage and student transportation, as needed.
  • Provides high-quality supervision and management for the student population and positively influences student behavior. Shows respect and courtesy to students and holds them accountable for their actions and behavior.
  • Works in partnership with staff from all Departments to ensure effective supervision and services are provided to students.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Schedule
  • Saturday-Tuesday, 5:00 PM-10:00 PM

Required Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or equivalent required. Associates of Arts Degree or 1-year related experience working with middle and/or high school youth.
  • Experience as an athletic coach, afterschool program counselor, and/or camp counselor highly preferred.
  • Must possess a valid in-State Driver's License and meet Company insurability requirements.
  • Physical requirements include sitting, standing, climbing, walking, lifting, pulling and/or pushing, carrying, reaching, stooping and crouching. Demonstrates the ability to lift 40 pounds and / or the ability to assess the lift load in order to ask for necessary assistance.
  • Support and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

Important applicant information: While many states, including Massachusetts, have legalized marijuana for medical and recreational use, it remains classified as an illegal controlled substance under federal law, specifically the Controlled Substances Act. We are a federal contractor and subject to DOL regulations which requires us to maintain a drug-free workplace and prohibit the use of federally illegal substances. This role is subject to pre- and post-employment drug screening.
About Adams and Associates
The DOL contracts the administration of Shriver Job Corps to Adams and Associates, a 100% employee-owned company that is service-focused and outcome-driven. We began as a small business formed in 1990 with the sole mission of operating at-risk youth and children's programs for local, state, and federal governmental agencies. Today, we are one of the largest workforce providers involved in the federal Job Corps program!
Adams and Associates, Inc. abides by the requirements of 41 CFR ยงยง 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities, and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on characteristics protected by federal, state or local laws. Moreover, these regulations require that covered prime contractors and subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment individuals without regard to their protected veteran status or disability." This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.