1

Recreation Director Jobs in Rutherford, NJ (NOW HIRING)

The Role Under the general direction of the Program Director or Designee, The Recreation Coordinator is responsible for planning, organizing, and conducting recreational activities for clients and ...

Recreation Assistant

New York, NY · On-site

$17.50 - $20.75/hr

Recreation Assistant The Recreation Assistant is responsible for the direct supervision of the clients in their assigned area, and for enforcing applicable rules and providing assistance as needed.

Recreation Assistant

New York, NY

$17.50 - $20.75/hr

Recreation Assistant The Recreation Assistant is responsible for the direct supervision of the clients in their assigned area, and for enforcing applicable rules and providing assistance as needed.

The Role Under the general direction of the Program Director or Designee, The Recreation Coordinator is responsible for planning, organizing, and conducting recreational activities for clients and ...

The Role Under the general direction of the Program Director or Designee, The Recreation Coordinator is responsible for planning, organizing, and conducting recreational activities for clients and ...

Showing results 41-60

Recreation Director information

See Rutherford, NJ salary details

$30.1K

$72.8K

$141.7K

How much do recreation director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for recreation director in Rutherford, NJ is $72,759.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,900.00 and $93,300.00 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.
What job categories do people searching Recreation Director jobs in Rutherford, NJ look for? The top searched job categories for Recreation Director jobs in Rutherford, NJ are:
What cities near Rutherford, NJ are hiring for Recreation Director jobs? Cities near Rutherford, NJ with the most Recreation Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Recreation Director job openings in Rutherford, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,759 per year, or $35 per hour.

$21.42/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Samaritan Daytop Village rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Overview
Recreation Coordinator
Non-profit leaders can work anywhere.... The BEST work with us!
Sunday-Thursday 11am-7pm
Hourly Rate: $21.42
A nationally recognized comprehensive Health and Human Services Agency, with over 60 programs across New York City and the greater New York Area.
Samaritan Daytop Village serves over 33,000 New Yorkers annually within your neighborhoods and communities so our success depends on those we employ.
The Role
Under the general direction of the Program Director or Designee, The Recreation Coordinator is responsible for planning, organizing, and conducting recreational activities for clients and their children (Family Shelter) following the prescribed curriculum. This work is carried out in support of the mission and goals of Samaritan Daytop Village.
Responsibilities
What You Will Do
  • Supervises and monitors the internal and external recreation activities of the facility focusing on client engagement.
  • Maintains the inventory of recreation equipment and items.
  • Organizes trips for clients seeking cultural activities that meet the needs of the changing client system.
  • Plans and organizes special facility events.
  • Develops linkages with external recreational programs and facilities.
  • Act as a liaison between the site and community-based recreational resources.
  • Maintains trip logs for agency vehicles.
  • Attends on-site case reviews.

Qualifications
Who You Will Be
  • Someone with a High School or Equivalency Diploma.
  • At least two years prior experience in providing recreation services preferably in a Human Services agency.
  • Experience working directly with people from diverse racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
  • Knowledge of DHS regulations and systems (CARES) preferred
  • Good interpersonal and communication skills to interact with clients, staff, and children
  • Knowledge of recreational programming and fundamentals of recreational sports and activities
  • Computer literacy and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and EMR.
  • Willingness to utilize company vehicles to transport and escort clients as needed.
  • Flexibility and patience are a must for this role.
  • Ability to obtain First Aid/CPR certification within 90 days of employment.

What Samaritan Daytop Village employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom