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Recreation Manager Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Sixty (60) credit hours of college coursework in Recreational Management, Kinesiology, Physical Education or an acceptable related field is required. * One year of experience in the supervision of ...

Sixty (60) credit hours of college coursework in Recreational Management, Kinesiology, Physical Education or an acceptable related field is required. * One year of experience in the supervision of ...

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Recreation Manager information

See Tennessee salary details

$25.9K

$58.8K

$93.5K

How much do recreation manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for recreation manager in Tennessee is $58,828.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,100.00 and $73,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a recreation manager?

Recreation managers oversee facilities, staff, and operations of a recreation program. They may work for a municipality, school, or public park. As a recreation manager, you create and maintain the activity schedule, hire and train staff, and coordinate contracts with vendors. Qualifications for a recreation manager include a bachelor’s degree in recreation management or a related field and several years of experience running recreation programs.

What does a recreation manager do?

A Recreation Manager oversees the planning, organization, and implementation of recreational programs and activities for communities, organizations, or facilities. They are responsible for managing staff, budgeting, promoting events, and ensuring that facilities and programs meet the needs of participants. Recreation Managers work in various settings such as community centers, parks, resorts, and fitness clubs, aiming to enhance the quality of life through engaging recreational opportunities.

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

To thrive as a Recreation Manager, you need expertise in program planning, staff supervision, and facility management, usually supported by a degree in recreation, leisure studies, or a related field. Familiarity with scheduling software, budgeting tools, and sometimes certifications like CPR/First Aid are typically required. Strong interpersonal, leadership, and problem-solving skills help build community engagement and manage diverse teams. These competencies are essential for creating safe, enjoyable, and well-organized recreational experiences that meet the needs of participants.

How does a recreation manager typically collaborate with other departments or external partners to enhance program offerings?

Recreation Managers frequently work with other municipal departments, local schools, community organizations, and vendors to develop and deliver engaging programs. Collaboration may involve coordinating schedules with facility managers, partnering with local businesses for sponsorships, or working alongside event planners to ensure smooth execution of large activities. These partnerships help expand resources, reach a broader audience, and maintain a diverse lineup of recreational opportunities. Strong communication and organizational skills are essential for building and sustaining these collaborative efforts.

What is the difference between Recreation Manager vs Recreation Coordinator?

AspectRecreation ManagerRecreation Coordinator
CredentialsOften requires a bachelor's degree in recreation, leisure studies, or related field; certifications like CPR, First AidSimilar educational background; certifications like CPR, First Aid
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple programs, manages staff, and handles administrative tasks in community centers, parks, or recreation departmentsAssists in program planning, coordinates activities, and supports staff in similar settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by municipal parks and recreation departments, community centers, and private recreation facilitiesCommonly employed in the same settings, often as entry or mid-level roles

The main difference is that Recreation Managers have broader responsibilities, including staff management and program oversight, while Recreation Coordinators focus on supporting program activities and assisting with daily operations. Both roles require similar credentials and are integral to community recreation services.

What are the most commonly searched types of Recreation jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Recreation jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Recreation Manager jobs in Tennessee?

For Recreation Manager jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Recreation Manager jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Recreation Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Recreation Manager job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, and 26% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,828 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Recreation Program Coordinator

City of Oak Ridge TN

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Position Summary:
The position, under the general supervision of a Recreation Manager, monitors daily use of one of the City’s recreational facilities and programs. Work responsibilities extend to program and activity planning and implementation, scheduling facility usage, collecting fees, conducting safety inspections, and preparing written reports.
Essential Functions:
  • Plans, organizes, schedules, and conducts recreational programs and activities such as special events, classes, sports clinics and tournaments, aquatic programs, senior activities, summer youth programs, and day trips.
  • Conducts facility operations for the Senior Center and Civic Center Recreation Building by opening and closing buildings, monitoring activities, and conducting safety and cleanliness inspections.
  • Oversees operation of front desk and schedules staff.
  • Inventories and orders supplies and equipment.
  • Oversees collection and accounting for fees, prepares invoices for recurring facility users, deposits collected monies; and maintains records of revenues, expenses, and deposits for the department.
  • Checks deposits and reservations for accuracy and makes corrections as needed.
  • Schedules facility and equipment usage, collects appropriate fees, makes deposits, and maintains financial records.
  • Responds to inquiries and complaints from the general public.
  • Prepares reports and records on various recreation programs and service activities.
  • Sets up and moves both indoor and outdoor equipment.
  • Assists Recreation Manager in the training, monitoring, and evaluation of seasonal, part-time, or front-line staff.
  • Contacts other community groups to promote special events and programs by distributing flyers or other promotional materials.
  • Maintains equipment inventory.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Knowledge of the principles and practices of community leisure services administration.
  • Knowledge of public facility operations.
  • Knowledge of safety practices and procedures as applied to recreational, aquatic, and athletic programs.
  • Knowledge of a broad range of recreational and athletic activities and related facilities and equipment.
  • Knowledge of City policies and procedures.
  • Skill in effective oral and written communications
  • Skill in developing effective working relationships with co-workers and the general public.
  • Skill in the operation of a personal computer.
  • Skill in assigning and coordinating the work of volunteers.
Required Education, Experience, Licensing, and Certifications:
  • High School Diploma or GED and three (3) years of experience in recreation or leisure services; or any equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Must possess a valid State of Tennessee Driver’s license.
This position is OPEN UNTIL FILLED.
Exempt : No
Type :  FT 
Department : Recreation and Parks Department
Location : DEFAULT