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Recreation Internships Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Completion of an Internship under a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist. * Required length and type of experience: * One year of work experience preferred in a behavioral health program.

Completion of an Internship under a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist. * Required length and type of experience: * One year of work experience preferred in a behavioral health program.

Completion of an Internship under a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist. * Required length and type of experience: * One year of work experience preferred in a behavioral health program.

Completion of an Internship under a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist. * Required length and type of experience: * One year of work experience preferred in a behavioral health program.

Completion of an Internship under a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist. * Required length and type of experience: * One year of work experience preferred in a behavioral health program.

Completion of an Internship under a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist. * Required length and type of experience: * One year of work experience preferred in a behavioral health program.

Completion of an Internship under a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist. * Required length and type of experience: * One year of work experience preferred in a behavioral health program.

Completion of an Internship under a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist. * Required length and type of experience: * One year of work experience preferred in a behavioral health program.

Completion of an Internship under a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist. * Required length and type of experience: * One year of work experience preferred in a behavioral health program.

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Recreation Internships information

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$17

$23

How much do recreation internships jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreation internships in the United States is $17.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a recreation internship?

Recreation internships are short-term work experiences that allow students or recent graduates to gain practical skills in the field of recreation, such as parks and recreation, community centers, outdoor education, or sports management. These internships provide hands-on learning opportunities, helping interns to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings. Interns may assist with program planning, event organization, facility management, and community outreach. The experience gained is valuable for building a career in recreation or related fields.

What is the difference between Recreation Internships vs Recreation Coordinators?

AspectRecreation InternshipsRecreation Coordinators
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or have completed a degree in recreation, leisure studies, or related fieldBachelor's degree in recreation, leisure studies, or related field; some roles may require certification
Work EnvironmentInternship settings, community centers, parks, recreational facilitiesFull-time roles in parks, community centers, recreational organizations
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by organizations to train future professionals; often part of educational programsFull-time staff responsible for program planning, facility management, and community engagement

Recreation Internships are entry-level positions designed for students or recent graduates gaining practical experience, often part of educational programs. Recreation Coordinators are full-time professionals managing recreational programs and facilities. Internships serve as a stepping stone toward becoming a Recreation Coordinator, who holds more responsibilities and requires more experience.

What do recreation interns do?

As a Recreation Intern, you will likely assist with planning, organizing, and delivering a variety of recreational programs and events, such as sports leagues, summer camps, or community wellness activities. You may also help with daily operations, facility management, and participant engagement, gaining hands-on experience in both administrative and on-the-ground roles. Interns often work closely with full-time recreation staff, volunteers, and community members, allowing for valuable networking and mentorship opportunities. This role provides a well-rounded introduction to the field and can often lead to entry-level positions within parks and recreation departments or nonprofit organizations.

What skills and qualifications are needed for a recreation internship?

To thrive in Recreation Internships, you generally need a background in recreation management, physical education, or a related field, often as a current student or recent graduate. Familiarity with event scheduling software, activity planning tools, and basic first aid certification is commonly expected. Strong interpersonal skills, initiative, and adaptability help interns effectively engage participants and support diverse programs. These abilities are crucial for delivering safe, enjoyable recreational experiences and contributing positively to team goals.
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What cities are hiring for Recreation Internships jobs?

Cities with the most Recreation Internships job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Recreation Internships jobs?

The most popular types of Recreation Internships jobs are:

What states have the most Recreation Internships jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Recreation Internships job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,898 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Recreation Therapy Intern

Northwest Special Recreation Association

Rolling Meadows, IL • On-site

$22.50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

JOB PURPOSE:

  • To assist with all job responsibilities of the Therapeutic Recreation Specialist including (but not limited to) assessing, planning, developing, implementing and evaluating therapeutic recreation programs for children and adults with disabilities within our member park districts and recreation departments.
  • To gain exposure to components of the NCTRC Job Analysis Task Domains. While it is not mandatory that applicants be exposed to all the sub categories within tach task area, each of the main task areas must be completed. No less than 20 hours per week or more than 45 hours per week will be accepted for the internship experience, except as may be provided in the Alternative Internship Guidelines. Additionally, the internship experience must be completed for no less than fourteen consecutive full weeks. The total minimum number of required hours is 560. For students completing only 20 hours a week, the total number of weeks will be 28 to meet the minimum 560 hour requirement.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:


Communication and Outreach

  • Provide timely responses to phone calls, voicemail and written materials, whether received by mail, fax, or email sent by NWSRA.
  • Treat public complaints and concerns with the utmost attention. Is courteous in all cases.

Position Specific Responsibilities

  • Assist in supervision and evaluation for part-time staff and volunteers in assigned programs.
  • Serve as a team leader, prompting group cohesiveness while leading programs and assist in preparing part-time staff and volunteers working in the assigned programs.
  • Develop goals and objectives for each assigned programs and maintain all program paperwork; i.e., records, forms, and correspondence.
  • Effectively navigate to and from designated points in the member districts assigned quickly and without hesitation.
  • Maintain expenditure records for each assigned program, collect, and turn in receipts from program expenses in a timely fashion.
  • Plan and develop programs of all types including weekly, clubs, special events, Leisure Education, camps, trips/overnights, Lightning Athletics and cooperative programs.
  • Prepare and implement behavior management strategies when necessary, to ensure safe involvement in recreation programs by people with disabilities.
  • Drive agency vehicles and transport program participants, as required, and assist in care and maintenance of vehicles as required.
  • Demonstrate creativity, enthusiasm, and take initiative when leading programs.
  • Responsible for record keeping such as attendance sheets, as well as incident and accident reporting forms.
  • Provide assistance and instruction to the participants when needed.
  • Understand needs of persons with disabilities and adapt activities to enable participation when necessary.
  • Assist with the development and implementation of behavior plans when needed in assigned programs.
  • Other duties needed to help drive our Vision, fulfill our Mission, and abide by NWSRA’s Core Values.

Safety

  • Understand safety polices, maintain a working knowledge of all general and departmental-specific safety policies and inspect work and program areas for compliance with safe work practices and policies.
  • Enforce safety policies by improving employee and public knowledge while correcting unsafe behavior and conditions.
  • Cooperate and assist in the investigation of accidents/ incidents and attends all required safety program and education meetings.

JOB STRENGTH REQUIREMENTS:


Weight Bearing:

  • Ability to gather and transfer program equipment and to move heavy recreational equipment.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and push a wheel chair up to 300 lbs.

Agility/Flexibility/Balance:

  • Ability to safely lift, transfer and/or position individuals with mobility impairments in wheelchairs.
  • Ability to kneel, crawl, reach, rotate body position, reach into small spaces and run to maintain interaction with participants in programs who may need individualized assistance or close supervision.

Manual Dexterity:

  • Ability to maneuver wheelchairs through narrow or small spaces, such as doorways, washrooms, and vehicles, while operating doors and lifts and lift wheelchairs over obstructions such as curbs, small stairs, and other barriers.
  • Ability to manipulate a variety of objects such as eating utensils or G-tubes to perform personal care for participants as well as writing utensils, communication devices and recreation equipment of all types.

Stamina:

  • Ability to work a varied schedule of days and hours.
  • Ability to drive or ride long distances required for the program.
  • Ability to keep pace with active participants who may be aggressive or a flight risk.

Psychological Considerations:

  • Ability to work with individuals from all backgrounds and special interests in a respectable manner and to maintain a positive attitude in public places.
  • Ability to troubleshoot, problem-solve, and handle stress in a calm, professional manner.

Environmental Considerations:

  • Ability to perform in a variety of weather conditions, ranging from mild to severe, year round, and in facilities that may range in temperature, and/or have various exposures such as pool chemicals.
  • Ability to perform in outdoor situations where there is potential exposure to poisonous plants, insects, and wild animals.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • At least 21 years of age
  • Enrolled in 4-year College or University in Therapeutic Recreation.
  • Must have a valid driver’s license. (in-state not necessary)
  • Have an interest or experience working with children and adults with disabilities.
  • Demonstrate dependability, promptness, flexibility and punctuality.
  • Demonstrate enthusiasm in recreation programming and have the ability to engage in activities requiring physical exertion.
  • Willingness to learn and accept new ideas.