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Recreation Director Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Ontario Center

Per Diem Recreation Aide

Canandaigua, NY · On-site

$16/hr

Work directly with Residents on units, without direct supervision. * Organize and obtain supplies and equipment as requested. * Assist recreation specialists & set up program areas as needed. * Keep ...

University of Rochester

Recreational Therapist

Rochester, NY · On-site

$22.91 - $30.93/hr

The Recreational Therapist in the Child Acute Inpatient Services is a member of the interdisciplinary treatment team and provides direct clinical services to patients 18 years of age and younger. The ...

New

Lollypop Farm

Medical Director

Fairport, NY · On-site

$170K - $180K/yr

The area also offers abundant 4-season outdoor recreation among the picturesque trails, rivers ... Provide direct management and support to staff Veterinarians, Veterinary Interns/Externs, volunteer ...

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All JobsRecreation JobsRecreation Director JobsRecreation Director Jobs in Rochester, NY

Recreation Director information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$29.1K

$70.4K

$137.1K

How much do recreation director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for recreation director in Rochester, NY is $70,421.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,400.00 and $90,300.00 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 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.
More about Recreation Director jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Recreation jobs in Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Recreation jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What are popular job titles related to Recreation Director jobs in Rochester, NY? For Recreation Director jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Recreation Director jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Recreation Director jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Recreation Director jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Recreation Director job openings:
Recreation Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreation Director job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, and 24% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $70,421 per year, or $33.9 per hour.

Recreation Specialist

City of Rochester (NY)

Rochester, NY • On-site

$46K - $59K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

City Of Rochester (New York) rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

144th of 841 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

General Description This is an entry-level position responsible for conducting various recreation programs at a recreation facility. The employee will independently conduct one or more activities. Direct supervision is received from the facility director or assistant, and the employee may assign and review the work of part-time, seasonal, or volunteer staff.

Work hours are generally scheduled in the afternoon, evening and weekends. May independently operate satellite or summer site with in-direct supervision. Related work is performed as required.

Under the NY HELPS Program, the Civil Service Exam for this title has been waived. For additional information regarding the NY HELPS Program, please visit: https://www.cs.ny.gov/help/faq.cfm CITY RESIDENCY WILL BE REQUIRED WITHIN ONE YEAR OF HIRE. Typical Work Activities Develops, coordinates, and conducts education, sports, health & fitness and youth development related programs and services; Instructs and leads a wide variety of youth development, life skills, recreation, athletic, cultural and social activities, in accordance with the facility schedule; Meets with youth councils and community members to develop programs and activities as directed; Directs participants in the correct and safe use of facilities and equipment; Ensures that participant code of conduct is understood and adhered to by all persons in the facility; Inspects facility as directed to insure it is safe for use by participants; Administers emergency first aid and CPR as required; Prepares outdoor and indoor activity spaces for program use; Advises participants about pertinent resources and programs available in the community; Coaches and officiates softball, basketball, track and field sports, soccer and other team sports and games; Distributes and maintains supplies and equipment; Meets and corresponds with parents or guardians as directed to resolve issues related to participant behavior or conduct; Responds to inquiries related to facility programs; Performs basic administrative tasks such as filling out forms, collecting activity fees, maintaining records, and other required administrative tasks as directed; Works cooperatively with permit-holders and other building users to resolve conflicts and provide on-site support; Recruits youth and adult recreation participants through a variety of means including neighborhood outreach and collaborations with other agencies; Attends training sessions to remain current in youth development methods and research, first aid, and other necessary skills

Minimum Qualifications High school diploma or Equivalent PLUS: Associate's (or Bachelor's) degree in Recreation/Leisure Services, Physical Education, Human Services, Art, Drama, Dance, or Music; PLUS one (1) year of full-time experience (or part time equivalent) conducting or instructing recreation, educational, or leisure programs (such as sports, physical education, music, arts and crafts, dance, or dramatics); OR Two (2) years full-time experience (or part time equivalent) as described in Section 1 above. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Possession of American Red Cross standard first aid and CPR certification or equivalent at time of appointment and on a continuous basis throughout their incumbency. New York State Class D Driver's License at time of appointment.

This licensure must be maintained throughout employment in this job. Possession and maintenance of a Van Certification issued by the Department of Recreation & Youth Services.

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