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Recreation Director Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

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Recreation Director information

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$30.5K

$73.8K

$143.7K

How much do recreation director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for recreation director in Silver Spring, MD is $73,783.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,600.00 and $94,600.00 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 Silver Spring, MD?

The most popular types of Recreation jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

What are popular job titles related to Recreation Director jobs in Silver Spring, MD?

For Recreation Director jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Recreation Director jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Recreation Director jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Recreation Director jobs?

Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Recreation Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Recreation Director job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,783 per year, or $35.5 per hour.

Temporary Recreation Leader III-Head Lifeguard

City of Alexandria, VA

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$22.23/hr

Other

Posted 28 days ago


City Of Alexandria (Virginia) rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

197th of 848 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Salary: $22.23 Hourly
Location : Alexandria, VA
Job Type: Temporary
Job Number: 2027-00491
Department: Recreation Parks & Cultural Activities
Division: RECREATION SERV
Opening Date: 07/23/2026
Closing Date: 6/18/2027 11:59 PM Eastern
Bargaining Unit: N/A
Temporary Recreation Leader III- Head Lifeguard
Aquatics/ Recreation Services
Position Overview
The Head Lifeguard provides onsite leadership at City of Alexandria pools, ensuring the safety of patrons and the effective supervision of aquatic staff. In addition to lifeguarding, Head Lifeguards assist with shift supervision, staff coaching, and facility oversight. This position is ideal for individuals with strong leadership skills, prior aquatics experience, and a desire to take on additional responsibility in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
A Message from the Director
Welcome to the City of Alexandria's Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities. I am excited that you are considering joining our team. Every day, we have the privilege of serving a city that values connection, creativity, and community. Our parks, programs, and cultural spaces reflect Alexandria's diversity and spirit, and our people are the heart of it all.
As you explore opportunities within RPCA, know that you are stepping into a department where teamwork, curiosity, and service guide everything we do. We take pride in our work, we find purpose in our impact, and we celebrate the difference each team member makes. Together, we are building something meaningful for the people of Alexandria, and I am grateful for your interest in being part of it.
Hashim T. Taylor, Director
Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities
The Opportunity
Head Lifeguards are assigned to indoor and outdoor aquatic facilities and may support multiple locations throughout the City. Shifts are available for summer or year-round, with morning, daytime, evening, and weekend availability. In this role, you will:
• Supervise lifeguards, pool operators, and swim instructors during assigned shifts
• Oversee daily operations, enforce safety standards, and complete required documentation
• Support and assist with staff training, mentoring, in-services, and audits
• Act as the manager on duty in the absence of full-time staff
• Perform lifeguard duties, including surveillance, rescues, and customer service
• Monitor facility cleanliness, risk management protocols, and incident response
Head Lifeguards are expected to be in the lifeguard rotation approximately 60% of the time, with additional responsibilities in leadership, safety, and operations during each shift.
Your Impact
As a Head Lifeguard, you help ensure a safe, efficient, and welcoming environment where swimmers of all ages can improve their health, build confidence, and enjoy recreation. You'll serve as a leader on the pool deck-supporting your peers, modeling professionalism, and gaining valuable experience in supervision, public safety, and facility management.
What You Should Bring
Successful candidates bring strong leadership skills, sound judgment, and a commitment to safety and service. You should be confident in leading a team, responding to emergencies, and working with a variety of patrons and staff.
Candidates must hold a current Lifeguard certification.
Candidates with and without a valid national pool operator certification are encouraged to apply. Paid pool operator training and certification are provided to successful job candidates.
Candidates with and without a Lifeguard Instructor certification are encouraged to apply. Paid training and certification are provided for successful job candidates who can demonstrate the American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor prerequisites:
  • Be at least 17 years old.
  • Possess current certification in American Red Cross Lifeguarding (Including Deep Water) with CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers and First Aid.
  • Successfully complete the prerequisite skill assessment scenario:
    1. Entry
    2. Swimming approach
    3. Surface dive in deep water (7-10 feet)
    4. Passive submerged rescue
    5. Rapid extrication (with an assisting rescuer)
    6. Rapid assessment
    7. Single-rescuer CPR (3 minutes)
About the Department
The Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities (RPCA) enriches the lives of Alexandria residents through diverse programming, well-maintained public spaces, and inclusive cultural activities. RPCA is nationally accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA), having met rigorous best-practice standards in the industry.
Minimum & Additional Requirements
High School Diploma and three (3) years of related experience or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. First Aid training.
Additional Requirements:
  • At least 17 years of age
  • Ability to work at least one weekend day (Saturdays, Sundays, or both)
  • Hold current Lifeguard certification
  • One year or more experience as a lifeguard
  • Ability to demonstrate Lifeguard Instructor prerequisites

Preferred Qualifications
American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor certification
Current Pool Operator certification (National Swimming Pool Foundation Certified Pool & Spa Operator (CPO) or Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO) from the National Recreation and Park Association).
Notes
This position requires pre-employment background checks which include, but are not limited to, a criminal records check and drug screening.
The City of Alexandria is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in its workforce. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, genetic information, military status, or disability.
This position is not a City of Alexandria position and is not eligible for City benefits.
01
Do you currently hold a valid Lifeguard certification?
  • Yes
  • No

02
If yes, please list the lifeguard certification and expiration date:
03
Do you currently hold a national pool operator certification?
  • Yes
  • No

04
If yes, please list the pool operator certification and expiration date:
05
Do you have the ability to demonstrate the American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor prerequisites?
  • Yes
  • No

06
How many years of experience do you have as a lifeguard?
07
Are you available to work morning, daytime, evening, and/or weekend shifts during the year and/or during the summer season?
  • Yes
  • No

08
If yes, what is your availability?
09
Are you willing and able to rotate in the stand with other lifeguards?
  • Yes
  • No

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