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Recreation Director Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

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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 Sep 5, 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 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.

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 2% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,421 per year, or $33.9 per hour.

Recreation Assistant/Part-Time

City of Rochester (NY)

Rochester, NY

$17.53/hr

Part-time

Posted 11 days ago

City Of Rochester (New York) rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

126th of 855 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

General Description These are part-time and seasonal recreation positions involving responsibility for assisting the staff in the performance of varied recreation activities at a playground, recreation center, neighborhood facility or gymnasium. The work is performed under the direct supervision of the higher level recreation staff. Supervision is not a responsibility of this position.

Employees in this class may be required to work a variety of hours and shifts as demanded by the recreation program. Performs related work as required. CITY RESIDENCY IS REQUIRED AT TIME OF APPLICATION Typical Work Activities Assists recreation staff in conducting a daily recreation program, including athletics, group games and crafts; Assists in maintaining order and compliance with established recreation rules and regulations; Assists in the stocking of supplies and equipment; Assists in the maintenance of supplies and equipment.

Minimum Qualifications High School Diploma or Equivalent; OR One (1) year of part-time (or full-time) experience as a member in the City of Rochester AmeriCorps Program

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