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Recreation Manager Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

City of Columbus (WI)

Recreation Director

Columbus, WI · On-site

$59K - $74K/yr

General Purpose Manages, plans and implements activities and programs which serve the social ... The Recreation Director administers office and program purchases for the Recreation Department.

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Recreation Manager information

See Madison, WI salary details

$28.7K

$65.3K

$103.8K

How much do recreation manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for recreation manager in Madison, WI is $65,310.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,900.00 and $81,100.00 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.

More about Recreation Manager jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Recreation jobs in Madison, WI?

The most popular types of Recreation jobs in Madison, WI are:

What are popular job titles related to Recreation Manager jobs in Madison, WI?

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

What job categories do people searching Recreation Manager jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Recreation Manager jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Recreation Manager jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Recreation Manager job openings:

Recreation Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreation Manager job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, and 35% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,310 per year, or $31.4 per hour.

Recreation Field Supervisor - Arts

Madison, WI • On-site

Madison School & Community Recreation
Amusement, Gambling, and Recreation • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Madison School & Community Recreationexternal

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Recreation Field Supervisor - Arts
Madison School & Community Recreation (MSCR) is Madison's public recreation provider. MSCR offers a wide variety of athletic, recreational, arts and enrichment activities and classes for all ages in an accessible, inclusive setting. Programs include swimming instruction, MSCR on the Move, arts & enrichment classes, youth summer camps, sports camps & clinics, adult & 50+ fitness, adult sport leagues including pickleball, softball and tennis, and a wide variety of outdoor pursuits including paddling sports, pontoon trips, camping, orienteering and challenge courses.
As a department of the Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD), MSCR also provides afterschool enrichment activities, clubs and sports as well as summer programming in Madison elementary, middle and high schools, Allied Learning Center and Meadowood Neighborhood Center. Afterschool clubs and sports include: arts & enrichment, homework/academic clubs, drama, dance, skiing, soccer, basketball, volleyball, cross country and much more!
Program Description:
MSCR's Youth and Adult Arts & Enrichment programs are designed to provide lifelong learning opportunities that are accessible, social, low-pressure, and fun! These courses help participants build practical art skills while fostering community connections and art appreciation. We are seeking an engaging and enthusiastic Field Supervisor to aid in program management in a recreational setting.
Job Description & Duties:
• Purchase, deliver, and manage supplies while keeping stock organized and inventoried across multiple MSCR locations
• Support classes at non-MSCR locations by delivering supplies and assisting instructors with setup and cleanup
• Represent MSCR at community events and outreach opportunities
• Chaperone trips as needed
• Assist with preparation and execution of MSCR special events such as the Youth Dance Recital, Pottery Sale, Under the Stars, Learn 2 Ride, Golf Outing, etc.
• Observe and provide feedback for both youth and adult classes throughout the session, including nights and weekends
• Fill in for various weekend and evening shifts such as front desks, Learn 2 Ride, Mobile Vehicles, etc.
Start Date: September 14, 2026
Work Location: MSCR West, Central and East
Hours/week: Up to 18.5 hours per week during the school year and up to 40 hours per week in the summer.
Work hours: A combination of weeknights (Monday - Thursday 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM) and some weekends.
Payrate: 19.00 - 21.10 /hour
Minimum Qualifications:
• Must have a reliable car
• Ability to lift 50 lbs
• Ability to work nights and weekends
• High school diploma and two years of post-high school education in recreation, education, or related field.
• At least one year of related experience in coordinating, researching and evaluating recreation programs, or any combination of education and experience that provides equivalent knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Strong organizational skills, detail-oriented, and recreation program planning knowledge.
• Ability to collaborate and communicate effectively, verbally and in writing, with staff, customers and community organizations.
• Specific knowledge of a broad range of arts and enrichment classes and programs.
Preferred Qualifications:
• Experience in curriculum development for recreational or non-formal education.
• Degree in Fine Arts, Education, or a related field.
• First Aid certification.Other Information:
For more information, contact Andie Kobrick at amkobrick@madison.k12.wi.us

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