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Recreation Manager Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

... management, and mobility assistance. This role also assists individuals with facilitating educational and recreational activities, providing transportation, and offering emotional and companionship ...

... management, and mobility assistance. This role also assists individuals with facilitating educational and recreational activities, providing transportation, and offering emotional and companionship ...

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Recreation Manager information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$28.2K

$64.2K

$102.1K

How much do recreation manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for recreation manager in Springfield, IL is $64,239.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,100.00 and $79,800.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Recreation jobs in Springfield, IL? The most popular types of Recreation jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Recreation Manager jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Recreation Manager jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Recreation Manager jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Recreation Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Recreation Manager job openings in Springfield, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,239 per year, or $30.9 per hour.
CONTRACT VISUAL MEDIA SPECIALIST

CONTRACT VISUAL MEDIA SPECIALIST

State of Illinois

Springfield, IL • On-site

$55.17 - $61.30/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 2 days ago


State Of Illinois rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 72 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Requisition ID: 56703
Opening Date: 06/24/2026
Closing Date: 07/09/2026
Agency: Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity
Class Title: CONTRACTUAL WORKER - 10000 
Skill Option: None 
Bilingual Option: None
Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary is $55.17 - $61.30 hourly
Job Type: Hourly
Category: Full Time 
County: Sangamon
Number of Vacancies: 1
Bargaining Unit Code: None
Merit Comp Code: 

A resume is required to evaluate your qualifications and skills as part of your application.  Please attach a DETAILED Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV) to the MY DOCUMENTS section of your application if you decide to provide one.

***RESUME IS REQUIRED***

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Position Overview

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) Office of Tourism is seeking a Contract Visual Media Specialist (Personal Services Contractor) to help showcase the people, places, and experiences that make Illinois a premier outdoor recreation destination. In this exciting role, you will lead the development and execution of a statewide multimedia program that promotes outdoor recreation, tourism, and economic growth across Illinois. From capturing stunning photos and producing compelling videos to managing a growing multimedia library and supporting statewide marketing initiatives, your work will inspire visitors, strengthen communities, and highlight the economic impact of Illinois’ outdoor recreation industry. If you thrive in a creative, fast-paced environment and enjoy turning ideas into engaging visual content, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact on one of Illinois’ most important and growing industries. We invite you to apply today!

Essential Functions
  • Plans, develops, administers, coordinates a comprehensive statewide multimedia service program to support expansion and success of outdoor recreation for the Office of Tourism at the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO).
  • Researches, plans, shoots and edits photos, videos and audio interviews.
  • Researches and fulfills image requests from outside the agency and within to be used for promotional and educational purposes.
  • Assists the Outdoor Recreation Develop Manager to develop and implement plans to advance awareness, promote and grow Illinois’ outdoor recreation industry, including the impact of outdoor recreation industry on the state’s economy.
  • Works with the Deputy Director of Tourism to develop and implement other state tourism video projects as needed.
  • Meets with DCEO departments and other state agencies to establish integrated marketing strategies for visitors and attraction of economic development.
  • Manages the multimedia library by uploading images, video and audio files for the office.
  • Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Requires a bachelor’s degree with a focus in communications, public relations, marketing, photography or videography.
  • Requires a minimum of two (2) years of professional experience in media management, marketing or communications.
  • This position requires the ability to provide a digital portfolio as part of the application process. The portfolio must include examples of photography, videography, and related editing work that demonstrate technical proficiency, creative ability, and experience producing high quality visual content.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Prefers a minimum of two (2) years of experience independently shooting, editing and producing long and short form videos and photos for promotional, educational, documentary and social media projects.
  • Prefers a minimum of two (2) years of experience operating digital cameras, lenses, lighting and other equipment used in photo and video production.
  • Prefers intermediate proficiency with video editing software (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or similar). 
  • Prefers a minimum of two (2) years of professional experience creating audience-focused content for tourism campaigns.
  • Prefers a minimum of two years of experience meeting deadlines while managing multiple projects simultaneously, paying attention to detail, in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
  • Prefers a minimum of two (2) years of experience in corporate advertising or a creative department.
  • Prefers extensive knowledge of media production processes and techniques.
Conditions of Employment
  •  Requires completion of a background check and self-disclosure of criminal history.
  •  Requires the candidate to provide and maintain their own professional grade photography and videography equipment, including cameras, lenses, lighting, audio recording tools, and any other gear necessary to perform the duties of the position.
  •  Requires the candidate to have access to and proficiency with industry standard photo and video editing software to edit, produce, and deliver high quality digital media content.
  • The conditions of employment listed here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.
About the Agency

The mission of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is to create equitable economic opportunities across the State of Illinois. By attracting and supporting major job creators, investing in communities, strengthening Illinois’ world-class workforce, fostering innovation, and ushering in the new clean energy economy, DCEO works to fortify Illinois’ reputation as a global economic powerhouse while ensuring Illinois is the best state to live, work and do business.

​Work Hours: Monday - Friday; 8:30a - 5:00p
Headquarter Location:
1020 S Spring St, Springfield, Illinois, 62704
Work County:
Sangamon
Agency Contact: CEO.HR@Illinois.gov
(FOR INQUIRIES ONLY - INTERESTED APPLICANTS MUST APPLY ONLINE)
Posting Group:
Leadership & Management

The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your “junk mail”, “spam”, or “other” folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:

  • donotreply@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
  • systems@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com

What State Of Illinois employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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Get the full story on Breakroom


State of Illinois logo

About State of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Illinois is not a traditional company, but rather a governmental entity encompassing diverse agencies and departments that serve the constituents of Illinois. Based in Illinois, United States, this governmental body communicates with its citizens through the official website illinois.gov. The website is a one-stop resource for Illinois residents to access information about the state's services, including education, healthcare, transportation, and public safety, among others.

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Springfield, IL, US

Year founded

2009

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