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Recreation Director Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

... Direct Support Professionals (DSP), Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA), and Home Care Aides (HCA ... This role also assists individuals with facilitating educational and recreational activities ...

... Direct Support Professionals (DSP), Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA), and Home Care Aides (HCA ... This role also assists individuals with facilitating educational and recreational activities ...

... Direct Support Professionals (DSP), Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA), and Home Care Aides (HCA ... This role also assists individuals with facilitating educational and recreational activities ...

Daycare Teacher

Assumption, IL · On-site

$13.25 - $16.50/hr

Child Center Director III: Essential Functions: * Designing and following a full schedule of ... recreation, camping, or other related fields; or ● 1560 clock hours of experience in a ...

Daycare Teacher

Assumption, IL · On-site

$13.25 - $16.50/hr

Child Center Director III: Essential Functions: * Designing and following a full schedule of ... recreation, camping, or other related fields; or 1560 clock hours of experience in a recreational ...

Daycare Teacher

Assumption, IL · On-site

$13.25 - $16.50/hr

Child Center Director III: Essential Functions: * Designing and following a full schedule of ... recreation, camping, or other related fields; or • 1560 clock hours of experience in a ...

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Recreation Director information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$29.2K

$70.7K

$137.8K

How much do recreation director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for recreation director in Springfield, IL is $70,738.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,600.00 and $90,700.00 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 Springfield, IL?

The most popular types of Recreation jobs in Springfield, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Recreation Director jobs in Springfield, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Recreation Director jobs in Springfield, IL are:

What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Recreation Director jobs?

Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Recreation Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Recreation Director job openings in Springfield, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $70,738 per year, or $34 per hour.

Activity Director

Villas at Lincoln

Lincoln, IL • On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Activity Director

Job Summary:

NEW FACILITY TO OPEN 9/1/2026! The Activity Director provides ongoing program of activities designed to meet, in accordance with the comprehensive assessment, the interests and the physical, mental, and psychosocial wellbeing of each resident.

Essential Duties:

·      Develop and plan activities including, but not limited to: group social activities; spiritual programs; creative and educational programs; and exercise activities.

·      Oversight of Activity Aides

·      Review resident goals and progress notes properly document MDS reports.

·      Foster relationships of family members and community partners that may assist in supporting the Activity department.

Benefits Offered:

  • Extremely low-cost Health, Dental, Vision, 401K, and more

  • $25,000 Company Paid Life Insurance – at no cost to you

  • Leadership Training to enhance your management skills

  • Daily Pay - get your money when you want

  • Paid Vacations - rolls over each year

  • Paid Sick Time 

  • Paid Holidays

  • Tuition Reimbursement

  • Daily, Weekly, Monthly Employee Appreciation Events

  • Birthday, Anniversary Celebrations

  • Free Employee Assistance Programs - professional support & guidance on family, money, health, legal services and more

  • Huge Discounts at all major retailers (Walmart, Costco, etc.) at no cost to you

  • Virtual Visits with Doctors 24/7, without setting up additional accounts or appointments

  • Paid Break Time for Nursing Mothers

  • Time Off to Vote

Preferred Qualifications:

High School Diploma or its equivalent.

Satisfactory completion of a training course for Activity Directors.

2 years minimum of experience in a social or recreational program in a nursing facility.