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Recreation Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$18 - $20/hr

To Be Determined Instructors are responsible for providing a positive, safe, and fun learning ... Previous experience in outdoor recreation activities as a participant or instructor is required.

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Recreation Instructor information

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$13

$23

$36

How much do recreation instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreation instructor in the United States is $23.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $31.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a recreation instructor?

Recreation instructors are professionals who plan, organize, and lead recreational activities for groups or individuals in settings such as community centers, camps, fitness facilities, or parks. They may specialize in areas like sports, arts and crafts, fitness, or outdoor adventure activities. Their role is to ensure activities are safe, enjoyable, and tailored to the interests and abilities of participants. Recreation instructors also motivate and guide participants, promote teamwork, and help foster a positive and inclusive environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a recreation instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Recreation Instructor, you need a solid background in physical education, recreation programming, and activity leadership, often supported by a related degree or certification in CPR/first aid. Familiarity with scheduling software, fitness equipment, and safety protocols is commonly required. Strong communication, enthusiasm, and the ability to motivate and engage participants are standout soft skills. These competencies ensure safe, enjoyable, and effective programming that promotes both individual development and group participation.

What are the most common challenges recreation instructors face when managing group activities?

Recreation Instructors often encounter challenges such as accommodating participants with varying skill levels, maintaining engagement across diverse age groups, and ensuring safety during activities. Balancing individual attention while keeping the group motivated can require strong communication and adaptability. Additionally, instructors must be prepared to modify activities on the fly and quickly resolve any conflicts or disruptions that arise to ensure a positive experience for everyone.

What is the difference between Recreation Instructor vs Lifeguard?

AspectRecreation InstructorLifeguard
Required CertificationsCPR, First Aid, activity-specific certificationsCPR, First Aid, Lifeguard Certification
Work EnvironmentCommunity centers, parks, schools, recreational facilitiesSwimming pools, beaches, aquatic centers
Employer & IndustryMunicipal parks, recreation departments, private clubsPublic pools, private aquatic facilities, beaches

Recreation Instructors and Lifeguards often share certifications like CPR and First Aid and work in recreational or aquatic environments. However, Recreation Instructors focus on leading activities and programs, while Lifeguards primarily ensure safety and respond to emergencies in aquatic settings.

What cities are hiring for Recreation Instructor jobs?

Cities with the most Recreation Instructor job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Recreation Instructor jobs?

The top employers for Recreation Instructor jobs are:

What states have the most Recreation Instructor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Recreation Instructor jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Recreation Instructor jobs?

For Recreation Instructor jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Recreation Instructor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,461 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Parks & Recreation Instructor

Forest Grove, OR

City of Forest Grove
Non-Profits • 1 - 10 employees

$18.78 - $21.78/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Description Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job. JOB OBJECTIVES Under general supervision, the Instructor is responsible for leading, developing curriculum, and planning aquatic, recreational and/or specialized program activities for participants across a variety of themes and age groups.

This includes ensuring a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment, enforcing program policies, and providing instruction that aligns with the goals and objectives of the Parks & Recreation Department. SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED Receives general supervision from higher level staff. DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS Employees in this class may be assigned duties and responsibilities in the Recreation and/or Aquatics division of the Parks and Recreation Department.

Assignments will be based on areas of specialty that are consistent with the job classification, including but not limited to: Recreation Instructor- Leads recreational programs such as arts & crafts, sports, fitness, enrichment, special interest classes, and other community-based activities; or Aquatic Instructor - Specializes in aquatic programs such as fitness, swim instruction, water safety, and water-based group instruction. Duties/Responsibilities ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS The following tasks are typical for positions in this classification. Any single position may not perform all of these tasks and/or may perform similar related tasks not listed here.

Plan, organize, and instruct classes to participants in a specified field as assigned. Maintain knowledge of proper use and operation of required equipment; ensure controlled environment and conduct classes in compliance with department standards and appropriate safety protocols. Assist in developing and/or refining ideas for new and/or existing programs to contribute to the quality and type of programs offered.

Maintain and clean work and program areas to ensure for the safe and orderly participation in classes. Maintain records and reports, including participant usage records. Respond to questions and provide information to the public and participants regarding classes, programs, and use of facilities.

Provide emergency response as necessary including first aid and CPR. Perform duties in a professional manner that demonstrates ability to work with individuals of all demographics. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, other agencies, and the public.

Maintain proficiency in job requirements which may include attending trainings and meetings, reading materials, and meeting with others in areas of responsibility, which may require travel. Maintain confidentiality, data integrity, and comply with all related city, state, and federal standards related to confidentiality. Contribute to a positive work environment Maintain regular, predictable attendance and punctuality.

Perform other directly related duties consistent with the role and function of the classification. Minimum Qualifications QUALIFICATIONS Knowledge of: Principles and practices of effective instruction techniques. Methods and techniques of first aid and CPR.

Development of curriculum for classes and programs. Principles and practices of customer service and public relations. Appropriate safety precautions and procedures within area of assignment.

Modern office equipment, including computers and supporting applications. Pertinent Federal, State and local codes, laws and regulations. Ability to: Effectively instruct participants in assigned classes and activities.

Enforce applicable rules and regulations. Problem solve and maintain an orderly, controlled and safe environment. Respond to emergency situations and administer first aid and CPR as necessary.

Respond to requests and inquiries from the general public and participants. Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Operate and use tools, equipment and safety protective items needed for performing duties.

Understand and carry out oral and written instructions. Establish and maintain effective relationships with those contacted in the course of work. Additional Information Education and Experience Guidelines Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities may be qualifying.

A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be: Education: Equivalent to the completion of the tenth grade supplemented by specialized training or certification in area of assignment if appropriate, i.e. Certified Yoga Instructor. Experience: Experience requirements may vary based on assignment; some assignments may require hands-on experience, while others may require documented instructional or coaching experience

License, Certificate, or Special Requirements: Must be at least 16 years old at time of appointment. Possession of an appropriate, valid CPR/AED certification within 60 days of hire. Possession of an appropriate, valid first aid certification within 60 days of hire.

May be required to possess and maintain a valid driver's license. PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS The physical demands herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential job functions.

Environment: Incumbents are required to work in a public space (i.e. swimming pool, outdoor park, etc.) that is often busy and loud and may be exposed to inclement weather conditions and/or uneven terrain. Incumbents may be exposed to a variety of environmental elements (i.e

pool chemicals and other irritants due to being in the pool) for long periods of time. Positions in this classification interact with diverse populations in structured and unstructured activities and may occasionally deal with distraught or difficult people. Mobility: Incumbents are required to have sufficient mobility to operate office equipment including finger dexterity to access, enter and retrieve data using a computer keyboard.

Incumbents are required to perform physical activities commensurate with assigned responsibilities including the ability to walk, stand, or sit for prolonged periods of time, as well as stoop, kneel, reach, bend, climb, push and pull materials and equipment, push and pull participants who may require removal from the pool. Vision, Hearing and Communication: Vision and hearing must be sufficient to see and hear participants in crowded and noisy conditions and/or situations; vision sufficient to read small, printed documents and computer screens. Speech adequate to communicate instructions and rules to participants and to effectively communicate with co-workers.