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Recreation Manager Jobs in Riverside, IL (NOW HIRING)

On-Call Recreation Assistant

Chicago, IL

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

The On-Call Recreation Assistant directs trainees in leisure-time recreation/non-vocational ... management; communications; multicultural awareness; personal growth and development; career and ...

Recreation Therapist

Woodridge, IL · On-site

$23 - $24.97/hr

Attends staffing's, treatment team meetings, and management team meetings. * Assist in coordinating all volunteer-based recreational activities. * Identifies potential conflicts in client interaction ...

If you are not a current student studying recreation, sports management or a related field you DO NOT qualify for an internship at the Oak Lawn Park District. The Oak Lawn Park District is seeking ...

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Showing results 1-20

Recreation Manager information

See Riverside, IL salary details

$28.7K

$65.2K

$103.6K

How much do recreation manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for recreation manager in Riverside, IL is $65,167.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,800.00 and $80,900.00 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 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 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 cities near Riverside, IL are hiring for Recreation Manager jobs? Cities near Riverside, IL with the most Recreation Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Recreation Manager job openings in Riverside, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,167 per year, or $31.3 per hour.
Coordinator for Campus Recreation

Coordinator for Campus Recreation

North Central College

Naperville, IL • On-site

$43K - $50K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Posting Number
S000953
Position Title
Coordinator for Campus Recreation
Department
Office of Student Engagement & Belonging
Division
Student Affairs
Supervisor Title
Director of Student Engagement and Belonging
Status
Full Time Regular
Salary Range
$43,000 - $50,000
Position Summary
The Coordinator of Recreation supports the development, implementation, and daily operation of a comprehensive recreation and fitness program within the Office of Student Engagement and Belonging. This role provides North Central College students, staff, and faculty with opportunities to participate in fitness and recreation programs, outdoor adventure activities, intramural and club sports.
Reporting to the Director of Student Engagement and Belonging, the Coordinator contributes to a portfolio that advances student engagement, belonging, and wellbeing. This position plays a key role in program coordination, student staff supervision, and event execution while supporting divisional priorities established by the Assistant Dean of Students for Student Engagement and Transition Initiatives.
Description of Key Responsibilities
  • Coordinate and implement recreation programs including intramurals, club sports, fitness programs, outdoor adventure activities, and informal recreation opportunities that support student engagement and wellbeing.
  • Assist in the implementation and organization of Intramural and Club Sports programs, including scheduling, registration, event management, and communication with participants and student leaders.
  • Assist with the coordination of fitness programming, including group fitness classes, wellness initiatives, and fitness center operations.
  • Enforce college and departmental policies, including risk management and safety procedures, for all recreation and fitness activities.
  • Assist with hiring processes for student staff and support ongoing training and development opportunities aligned with the student engagement and leadership framework.
  • Maintain accurate records related to participation, scheduling, equipment usage, incidents, and program assessment to inform continuous improvement and reporting needs.
  • Support the development and distribution of marketing and promotional materials, including social media and digital communications, to enhance visibility and participation in recreation programs.
  • Collaborate with campus partners to support large-scale programs such as orientation, Homecoming, and weekend engagement initiatives.
  • Provide input on facility needs and assist in maintaining safe, clean, and functional recreation spaces.
  • Support recreation and fitness programming in alignment with divisional programming goals.
  • Perform other duties as assigned, including responsibilities that support departmental priorities, student engagement initiatives, and the overall student experience.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Working knowledge of recreation, intramural sports, club sports, and fitness programming within a collegiate or student engagement context.
  • Ability to coordinate and implement programs that support student engagement, belonging, and development.
  • Experience or familiarity with outdoor adventure programming and/or fitness instruction is preferred.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to support programs and events.
  • Demonstrated ability to supervise, train, and support student staff while fostering leadership development.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks, schedules, and priorities simultaneously.
  • Effective interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Ability to work collaboratively within a team-oriented environment and build relationships across departments.
  • Basic marketing and promotional skills, including familiarity with social media and digital communication tools.
  • Knowledge of risk management, safety procedures, and best practices in recreation and wellness programs.
  • Ability to assist with equipment management, including inventory, maintenance, and storage.

Distinguishing Characteristics
The Coordinator of Recreation is responsible for the coordination and day-to-day implementation of recreation and fitness programs within a broader student engagement framework. This role emphasizes program delivery, student development, and operational effectiveness, while supporting the strategic direction set by the Director of Engagement and Belonging and the Assistant Dean of Students for Student Engagement and Transition Initiatives.
The individual must be highly organized, student-centered, and collaborative, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. This position works closely with student leaders, club officers, and campus partners to ensure programs are inclusive, accessible, and aligned with institutional goals related to student engagement and belonging.
Strong communication, organization, and interpersonal skills are essential, along with the ability to foster inclusive participation and positive student experiences. The duties of this position require evening and weekend work, including attendance at a variety of events.
Education/Training
A bachelor's degree is required. Master's degree preferred.
Experience
1-3 years of experience in recreation, wellness, intramural sports, or related areas (graduate assistant experience may be considered).
Licenses or Certifications
Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record required.
CPR, First Aid, and AED certification required (or ability to obtain within a specified timeframe).
Additional certifications in fitness instruction or outdoor recreation are preferred.
Is This a Temporary Position?
No
Employment Conditions
An offer of employment is contingent upon successful completion of the College's background screening process.
Number of Vacancies
1
Posting Detail Information
EEO Statement
North Central College is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to increasing the diversity of our workforce. NCC provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities where appropriate. If you need reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, please notify the Office of Human Resources. Determinations for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.
Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Additional Information
The pay offered to the selected candidate will be determined based on factors including (but not limited to) the candidate's experience, qualifications, and training.
North Central College provides a comprehensive benefits package, which includes:
  • All-inclusive medical, dental and vision group insurance
  • Health and dependent care savings plans
  • Employer-paid life and AD&D insurance
  • 403(b) retirement plan with employer contributions
  • Employee assistance plan resources
  • Tuition waiver for full-time employees, spouse and dependent children
  • Generous paid time off plans, including 3 weeks vacation to start
  • 15 paid holidays per year, including 5 days during NCC Winter Break
  • Free access to campus health center, fitness and athletic facilities, and library
  • Employee discount program