1

Recreation Director Jobs in Racine, WI (NOW HIRING)

Activity Director

Glendale, WI · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Activity Director- Join Our Team! Summary: Bayshore Nursing & Rehab, a leading long-term care ... social, recreational, educational, and therapeutic activities * Coordinate and facilitate ...

Activities Director

Racine, WI · On-site

$45K - $47K/yr

Position Summary Responsible for planning and directing daily resident activities. Encourages ... recreational programs. * Carries out specific activities such as events, resident outings, more ...

Showing results 21-40

Recreation Director information

See Racine, WI salary details

$27.7K

$66.9K

$130.3K

How much do recreation director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for recreation director in Racine, WI is $66,924.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,100.00 and $85,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a recreation director?

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 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.

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.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Recreation jobs in Racine, WI?

The most popular types of Recreation jobs in Racine, WI are:

What job categories do people searching Recreation Director jobs in Racine, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Recreation Director jobs in Racine, WI are:

What cities near Racine, WI are hiring for Recreation Director jobs?

Cities near Racine, WI with the most Recreation Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Recreation Director job openings in Racine, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,924 per year, or $32.2 per hour.

Site Coordinator - Spec Rec Day Program PT

WAUKEGAN PARK DISTRICT

Waukegan, IL • On-site

$15 - $21.26/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Status of Employment
Seasonal, Non-exempt

Compensation & Benefits:

Expected hiring range $16.00 - $17.75 based on education, experience, and skills.
Click here for a quick look at benefits!

Description / Duties:

Provide leadership and guidance while working with individuals with disabilities in an adult day program setting. Provide knowledge for the development of life skills in the areas of health and wellness, education, art, recreation and leisure skills, and job training.

  • Oversee and supervise assigned programs and services.
  • Provide direct leadership and supervision to assigned programs and services.
  • Create developmentally appropriate activities that meet the needs and interests of participants for the HEART Day Program in the categories of Health, Education, Art, Recreation and Training.
  • Plan and implement the schedule of daily activities in program setting.
  • Assist in the development and implementation of goals and objectives specific to area of responsibility.
  • Assist in the evaluation of programs and services in the assigned area of responsibility.
  • Make and implement recommendations.
  • Assist in the recruitment, selection, training, supervision, and evaluation of assigned staff and volunteers.
  • Coordinate with Recreation Specialist and Recreation Supervisor to schedule staff.
  • Assist with assessments of new program participants.
  • Assist in the preparation and maintenance of reports and records regarding participants, programs, and services.
  • Ensure counselors maintain facilities in a clean, organized, and neat manner.
  • Plan field trips and arrange guest speakers and accompany participants on field trips.
  • May transport participants and supplies using a park district vehicle.
  • Assist in the purchase, distribution, and maintenance of proper inventory of all supplies and materials.
  • Establish cooperative working relationship with coworkers, parents, community agencies, and organizations.
  • Attend pertinent departmental/park district meetings and in-house training sessions.
  • Conduct self-according to the policies and procedures as established by the park district.
  • May open and close facilities.
  • Wear assigned uniforms while on duty.
  • Participate in Park District Safety and Training Program.

Age: 

  • 18 years and older

Education:

  • High School graduation required. Some college preferred.

Experience:

  • Experience working with adults with disabilities. Supervision of groups of adults with disabilities in a recreational setting. Supervision of staff and volunteers in a recreational setting preferred.

Knowledge:

  • General knowledge of recreation, parks, and leisure services field.
  • General knowledge of out of school programs and services.
  • General knowledge of developmentally appropriate activities for adults with disabilities in a recreational environment.

License:

  • Valid drivers license required for programs including transportation.

Certifications:

  • First Aid, CPR, and AED certification.

Hours:

9:30am 2:30pm Monday and Tuesday with some extra hours for planning.

Contact:

Maria Owens

Recreation Specialist-Special Recreation

Email: mowens@waukeganparks.org

Phone: 847-630-4764