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Recreation Director Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

This position assists in implementing and directing recreation programs and activities, including youth programs, senior programs and fitness programs at the recreation center. Hourly Pay: $15.00-17 ...

This position assists in implementing and directing recreation programs and activities, including youth programs, senior programs and fitness programs at the recreation center. Hourly Pay: $15.00-17 ...

The purpose of this classification is to assist in providing recreational activities and events for the leisure and enjoyment of the public. Duties vary depending on assignment. Essential Functions:

New

RECREATION LEADER

Mcdonough, GA · On-site

$16.86/hr

RECREATION ADMIN Opening Date: 03/12/2025 Closing Date: Continuous Description The purpose of this position is to coordinate and implement recreational activities for the operations of Henry County ...

RECREATION LEADER

Mcdonough, GA

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

Description The purpose of this position is to coordinate and implement recreational activities for the operations of Henry County Parks and Recreation. Examples of Duties Assists customers at ...

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Recreation Director information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$28.8K

$69.7K

$135.7K

How much do recreation director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for recreation director in Decatur, GA is $69,683.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,900.00 and $89,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Recreation Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Recreation Director, you need a background in recreation management, physical education, or a related field, often supported by a bachelor’s degree and relevant experience. Familiarity with program planning software, budgeting systems, and, in some cases, certifications like CPR/First Aid or Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) are valuable. Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills help you motivate staff, engage participants, and build community relationships. These skills ensure the effective delivery of diverse recreational programs that promote well-being, participation, and operational efficiency.

What is the difference between Recreation Director vs Recreation Coordinator?

AspectRecreation DirectorRecreation Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in recreation, leisure studies, or related field; certifications like CPR/First Aid often preferredSimilar educational background; certifications like CPR/First Aid also common
Work EnvironmentLeads recreation programs, manages staff, oversees budgets, and plans community eventsAssists in program implementation, supports event setup, and handles participant registration
Employer & IndustryMunicipal parks and recreation departments, community centers, resortsCommunity organizations, schools, local government programs

The main difference is that Recreation Directors typically oversee entire programs and staff, while Recreation Coordinators support program delivery and logistics. Both roles require similar credentials and work in related environments, but Recreation Directors hold more responsibility for planning and management.

What Does a Recreation Director Do?

Recreation directors manage special interest programs that include activities like sports, games, and hobbies such as canoeing, rock climbing, camping, and wilderness exploration. This position is relevant in several different areas and for various employers. For example, the city parks department, national parks, private camps, long-term care facilities, nursing homes, schools, and prisons all need qualified recreation directors. As a recreation director, your job duties include designing and scheduling recreational programs, hiring and training staff, and working with clients or guests to ensure programs meet their expectations. You also manage the daily operations of the events to make sure they run smoothly. You need excellent organizational skills and leadership abilities for this job.

How does a Recreation Director typically collaborate with other departments or community organizations?

A Recreation Director frequently works with other municipal departments, local schools, nonprofits, and community organizations to coordinate events, secure venues, and maximize participation in recreational programs. This collaboration ensures that resources are shared efficiently, programming meets community needs, and events run smoothly. Building strong relationships with these partners is crucial for expanding program offerings and accessing additional funding or volunteers. Effective communication and organizational skills are key in managing these partnerships.

What are Recreation Directors?

Recreation Directors are professionals responsible for planning, organizing, and overseeing recreational programs and activities at facilities such as community centers, parks, senior centers, or resorts. They manage staff, coordinate events, and ensure that programs meet the needs and interests of participants. Recreation Directors also handle administrative tasks like budgeting, marketing, and facility management to create engaging and safe environments for all users.
What are the most commonly searched types of Recreation jobs in Decatur, GA? The most popular types of Recreation jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What are popular job titles related to Recreation Director jobs in Decatur, GA? For Recreation Director jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Recreation Director jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Recreation Director jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Recreation Director jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Recreation Director job openings:

Deputy Director of Recreation and Special Events

The city of Marietta

Marietta, GA • On-site

$75K - $88K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Rate of Pay: $75,878.40 - $88,208.39
Status: Open Until Filled

Under administrative direction, oversees, supervises, and coordinates the activities and operations of the Recreation division within the Parks, Recreation, and Facilities Department; coordinates city-wide recreation programs and special events; coordinates assigned activities with other departments and divisions, outside agencies, and the general public; and provides a high level of assistance to the Director of Parks, Recreation, and Facilities. The incumbent will serve as the Acting Director in the absence of the Director.
Essential Job Functions:
  • Assumes responsibility for assigned services and activities of the Recreation division including programs, sports, special events, and facilities management.
  • Receives and reviews film permit applications, issues film permits, and coordinates film activities with permitted applicants; coordinates with various city departments on those filming activities when needed.
  • Participates in the design and development of new parks and recreation facilities in coordination with the Deputy Director of Parks, Recreation, and Facilities (Facilities and Grounds) and Director.
  • Prepares and oversees the Recreation division budget for the general fund and capital expense requests.
  • Authorizes requisitions for materials, equipment, and services.
  • Selects, compiles and analyzes data for development of reports to measure effectiveness of programs and services.
  • Reviews and updates policies and procedures pertinent to the Recreation division of the department as needed.
  • Verifies deposits and audits department financial transactions to ensure compliance with established fee policies and cash handling practices.
  • Coordinates the recruitment of staff to include full-time, part-time, and seasonal personnel.
  • Researches and reviews new funding sources and program ideas and recommends courses of action.
  • Prepares grants and monitors existing grant projects for compliance.
  • Prepares requests for proposals and bid specifications.
  • Assists Director in the development of departmental strategic plan.
  • Coordinates facility maintenance with the Deputy Director of Parks, Recreation, and Facilities (Facilities and Grounds) and the Facilities division.
  • Prepares contracts and ensures compliance with service providers at contracted facilities.
  • Prepares a wide variety of regular and special reports, and City Council agenda items and presents to City Council in the absence of the Director.
  • Coordinates maintenance of recreation fleet and maintains records of fixed assets.
  • Coordinates background investigations of volunteers, to include coaches.
  • Meets with representatives of the school district, agencies, and governmental entities to discuss and coordinate goals and objectives of the city recreation programs as needed.
  • Reviews and evaluates the needs and interests of the community and makes recommendations/coordinates implementation of programs to meet those needs.
  • Assigns tasks to staff based upon qualifications and workload to reach objectives.
  • Coordinates the efforts of subordinate supervisors.
  • Disseminates information to subordinates explaining policies, procedures, goals, and objectives.
  • Reviews the work of subordinates to ensure quality and compliance with policies and procedures.
  • Counsels staff concerning rule infractions; disciplines or recommends disciplinary action when appropriate.
  • Appraises subordinate performance; compares performance to established goals and standards; reviews appraisals by subordinate supervisors of their subordinates; develops performance standards.
  • Conducts additional management level functions as assigned and supervises department staff and operations in the absence of the Director.
  • Maintains professional certifications appropriate to the position such as Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP), Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE), Certified Pool Operator (CPO), Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO), among others.
  • Performs other related duties as required.

Job Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in recreation administration, or closely related field and ten years of progressively responsible recreation experience with at least five years of managerial/executive and financial management experience.
  • Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) or Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) certification preferred.
  • Certified Pool Operator (CPO) or Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO) certification preferred.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of all phases of public recreation programs and administration including financial management, budgeting, and accounting.
  • Knowledge of park and recreation facility design and development, with at least one year of experience preferred.
  • Knowledge of the filming industry preferred.
  • Knowledge of the variety of equipment and facilities used in public recreation programs.
  • Ability to operate a personal computer and various software programs, including Word and Excel.
  • Knowledge of recreation and accounting software is preferred.
  • Ability to supervise recreation employees and knowledge of current personnel practices, procedures and regulations.
  • Knowledge of principles and practices of recreation program safety and first aid.
  • Ability to organize and lead subordinates and coworkers.
  • Ability to cooperate with, and effectively communicate city and departmental objectives, ordinances, and policies to city authorities, public and private groups, agencies, and the general public.
  • Ability to develop and maintain effective relationships with department staff and program participants.
  • Ability to research, organize, and write reports and public presentations.
  • Skilled at making presentations to the public and elected officials in formal meeting settings.
  • Ability to work nights and weekends as needed.

Disclaimer
Successful candidates are required to submit to drug screen, and background inquiry.