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Recreation Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Apple Rehab

Recreation Director TRD

Old Saybrook, CT · On-site

Must meet requirements of Therapeutic Recreation Director as stated in the Public Health Code. * Must possess at least one year experience in rehabilitative or geriatric setting. * Must have a ...

RegalCare

CT

As Director of Recreation, you'll be at the heart of creating engaging, meaningful, and life-enriching programs for our residents. We're looking for an energetic, creative, and cheerful leader who ...

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Recreation Director information

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$29.5K

$71.4K

$139K

How much do recreation director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for recreation director in the United States is $71,372.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $91,500.00 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 cities are hiring for Recreation Director jobs? Cities with the most Recreation Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Recreation jobs? The most popular types of Recreation jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Recreation Director jobs? The top employers for Recreation Director jobs are:
What states have the most Recreation Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Recreation Director jobs include:
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Recreation Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreation Director job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $71,372 per year, or $34.3 per hour.

Therapeutic Recreation Director.

Civita Care Bayview

Waterford, CT • On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 6 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

We are hiring a full-time Therapeutic Recreation Director (TRD) to join our dynamic care team at Bayview Health Care in Waterford!

This is not a department head role. 32 hours per week. Includes rotating weekends. Must have a TRD certification.

Here at Civita Health Care Systems, our employees are the heart of our organization, and we take immense pride in their dedication. We are not only committed to delivering high-quality care and customer service to our patients and their families, but we also aspire to be the employer of choice. We strive to create a workplace where your skills and talents are nurtured to allow you to grow within the company.

As a TRD, you assist the Director in planning, organizing, developing, and implementing the overall operation of the Activity Department including social events, activities for residents, organizing external performers, and more.

Education & Experience:

  • Must possess at least an associate degree with major emphasis in Therapeutic Recreation, or be a candidate in an accredited degree program with proof of enrollment and ultimately, completion of a program in Therapeutic Recreation.

  • Alternatively, a bachelor’s degree in a related field and one year of full time employment in Therapeutic Recreation in a health care facility; or a Bachelor’s Degree in a related field and 6 credit hours of Therapeutic Recreation coursework; or an Associate’s Degree in a related field and two years full time employment in Therapeutic Recreation in a health care setting; or an Associate’s Degree in a related field and nine credit hours of Therapeutic Recreation coursework.  A related field shall include, but not be limited to Sociology, Psychology, Art, Music or Education.

  • Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) must be obtained within six (6) months.

  • Must be a qualified Therapeutic Recreation Director who is credentialed by the State of Connecticut.

  • Experience working with Alzheimer’s and Dementia residents in a healthcare setting preferred.

Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Assists in plans and provisions of patient care by visiting residents regularly to evaluate needs.

  • Document and report the nursing department any unusual or significant findings.

  • Encourage residents to take part in activities of daily living that will stimulate his/her potential, physically, mentally, socially, and spiritually.

  • Spend duty time with residents rather than with other facility staff.

  • Assist with and follow through on the establishment of resident care goals within the framework of the entire therapeutic team.

  • Document accurately, timely, and comprehensively.

  • Follow facility van operation policy and procedures, if applicable.

  • Contribute to and promote positive resident and family relations.

  • Participate in new hire selection, orientation process and provide supervision for all new recreation staff.

  • Participate in disciplinary/corrective actions, including the issuance and implementation of discipline, performance-initiated training, and other corrective measures.

  • Assist with composing and implementing recreation policies and procedures.

Specific Requirements:

  • Must be able to read, write, speak and understand the English language.

  • Must possess the ability to make independent decisions when circumstances warrant such action.

  • Must possess the ability to deal tactfully with personnel, residents, family members, visitors, government agencies/personnel and the general public.

  • Must be knowledgeable in the Privacy Rule and ensure all staff comply with facility privacy practices policies and procedures.

  • Must possess leadership ability and willingness to work harmoniously with and supervise professional and non-professional personnel.

  • Must have patience, tact, cheerful disposition and enthusiasm, as well as be willing to handle residents based on whatever maturity level at which they are currently functioning.

  • Must possess the ability to seek out new methods and principles and be willing to incorporate them into existing policies and procedures.

  • Must be able to relate information concerning a resident’s condition.

  • Must participate in continuing education and in-service training.

About Civita Health Care Systems:

Since its establishment, Civita Health Care Systems has pioneered the delivery of exceptional healthcare services. Operating nursing homes and hospice agencies across New York and Connecticut, Civita stands out as a healthcare leader in Southern New England.

Civita's Benefits:

  • Competitive and Weekly Pay

  • Holiday Pay for Hourly and Salaried Employees

  • Overtime Pay for Hourly Employees

  • Career Advancement Opportunities

  • Exclusive Employer Discount Program

Available for Eligible Team Members:

  • Employer Paid Life Insurance

  • 401(k) with Employer Match

  • Vacation and Personal Time

  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

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