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Recreation Director Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Sparc

Vocational DSP

Springfield, IL

$17 - $21.30/hr

The Vocational DSP (Direct Support Professional) amp; Vocational DSP Trainee work in a dynamic environment supporting adults with I/DD and works closely with service recipients, Vocational QIDPs ...

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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 Aug 6, 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 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 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:
Recreation Director jobs near you
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.

Client Advisor with Sports Experience

Northwestern Mutual - Central Illinois

Springfield, IL • On-site

$67K - $89K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Retirement
  • Bonus based on performance
  • Company parties
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible schedule
  • Health insurance
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Training & development
  • Vision insurance

Join the Winning Team at Northwestern Mutual - Central Illinois!
Are you an athlete at heart with a passion for teamwork and competition? Bring your sports background to a dynamic career as a Financial Advisor with Northwestern Mutual - Central Illinois!

Why Current and Former Athletes Could Thrive Here:
We appreciate the strengths and mindset athletes often bring to a professional environment—habits like discipline, a competitive spirit, and a drive to grow. The career path we offer provides structure, coaching, and support while allowing for personal ownership and independence. Here’s why this environment could be a strong fit for those with an athletic background:
  1. Coaching-Focused Support System: Many who join our firm value being surrounded by people invested in their development. Our approach includes access to an Activity Coach, Client Building Coach, Performance & Mindset Coach, and Technology Coach, along with weekly opportunities for mentorship, skill-building, and accountability. While we don’t manage people, we do offer guidance and leadership for those who are coachable and motivated to improve.
  2. Resilience and Focus: Athletes are familiar with pushing through challenges, staying committed, and maintaining long-term focus—qualities that could be helpful when navigating new opportunities or building something of your own.
  3. Goal-Oriented Approach: Setting and working toward goals is second nature to most athletes. That mindset could translate well in a career where goal-setting and progress tracking are part of the day-to-day rhythm.
  4. Discipline and Priority Management: Athletes learn to balance intense schedules early on. Rather than focusing on time management, we talk about priority management—because everyone gets the same 1,440 minutes in a day. How those minutes are invested can make a meaningful difference.
  5. A Balance of Support and Independence: This is a team-oriented culture in many ways—there’s shared learning, encouragement, and connection. At the same time, many people here value the independence the career offers. It’s a unique mix of collaborative energy and personal responsibility that can feel familiar to those coming from competitive sports.
Our thriving offices are located: 
  • Lincoln office: 2201 Woodlawn Road Lincoln IL 62656
  • Pittsfield office: 311 W Washington Street Pittsfield IL 62363
  • Jacksonville office: 606 E State Street Jacksonville IL 62650
  • Springfield Office: 2921 Greenbriar Drive, Suite A, Springfield IL 62704
Meet some of our local team:
D. Patrick Scheina, CLU – Managing Director and Wealth Management Advisor:
  • Time with Northwestern Mutual: 22 years
  • Previous Experience: Worked as a Loss Prevention Safety Consultant with an insurance company before joining Northwestern Mutual. He graduated from Illinois State University with a Bachelor of Science.
  • Outside Interests: Patrick, his wife, and daughter enjoy spending time with family and friends, traveling, water recreation, and cooking. They are members of St. Peter’s Catholic Church, and Patrick also serves on the Sangamon County CEO Board.
Eli Cook – Growth and Development Director:
  • Time with Northwestern Mutual: 11 years
  • Previous Experience: Began his career with Northwestern Mutual as a College Financial Representative in 2014 and has grown within the organization ever since.
  • Outside Interests: Eli and his wife have been married since 2019 and have a cocker spaniel named Colby Jack. In his spare time, Eli enjoys hunting.
Brent Shunk – Private Wealth Advisor:
  • Time with Northwestern Mutual: 38 years
  • Previous Experience: Brent has spent his entire career with Northwestern Mutual.
  • Outside Interests: Brent and his wife love spending time with their grandkids in Illinois and Florida. They stay active with boating, hiking, travel, playing cards, dancing, attending Bible study, and enjoying their weekly date night.
Austin Shunk – Private Wealth Advisor:
  • Time with Northwestern Mutual: 13 years
  • Previous Experience: Austin has built his entire professional career with Northwestern Mutual.
  • Outside Interests: Austin enjoys spending time with his family, studying maps and the Bible, watching basketball, and playing chess. He also stays active by swimming, biking, and hiking.
Sheila Davidsmeyer – Financial Advisor:
  • Time with Northwestern Mutual: Over 27 years
  • Previous Experience: Sheila began her career at Northwestern Mutual in 1998 as an Associate Financial Representative and became a Financial Advisor in 2013. She holds a B.A. in Business Administration with a focus on Marketing from Olivet Nazarene University.
  • Outside Interests: Sheila loves spending time with her kids and is an enthusiastic supporter of local sports in Pittsfield, IL.
Key Responsibilities: As a Financial Advisor, your primary role will be to engage with clients to understand their comprehensive financial needs, providing personalized guidance to help them achieve their financial protection and planning goals. You will design and implement tailored strategies that safeguard clients' assets, income, and overall financial well-being, ensuring their long-term security. Regularly reviewing and updating clients' financial plans and insurance policies to reflect any changes in their circumstances or goals will be crucial to ensure continuous protection. Additionally, you will cultivate a robust network of clients through referrals, active community involvement, and professional associations.

Qualifications: We prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in finance, business, or a related discipline. While prior experience in insurance, financial services, or business development is beneficial, it is not mandatory. Successful candidates will possess excellent interpersonal and communication abilities, strong analytical skills, and the capability to build lasting client relationships. We welcome individuals from business development-oriented organizations with uncapped earnings potential, including those from Medical Device, Education (teachers, administrators), Logistics, Solar, Payroll Services, Tech Business Development, Real Estate, Auto Rental and others. You will be required to obtain state insurance licenses, with training provided and sponsorship considered.

Benefits: You will have continuous access to training and development programs, with sponsorship for advanced certifications to enhance your expertise. We offer a lucrative compensation structure including performance-based incentives and unlimited earning potential. You will receive extensive support from a dedicated planning team, marketing resources, and experienced mentors. Enjoy the flexibility to design a work schedule that aligns with your personal and professional goals. Most importantly, you will play a pivotal role in helping individuals and families secure their financial future, making a lasting difference in the community. 
Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM) and its subsidiaries in Milwaukee, WI. Patrick Scheina is a General Agent of NM and not in legal partnership with NM, or its subsidiaries.

Flexible work from home options available.