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Recreation Operations Manager Jobs in Houston, TX

Reduced operations continue through the off-season. The ideal candidate is proactive, energetic, and highly organized, with a passion for hospitality and recreation management and dedicated to safety ...

Oversee the care and readiness of Elyson's parks, pools, recreation facilities, trails, landscape ... operations, facilities management, community association management, hospitality, project ...

Oversee the care and readiness of Elyson's parks, pools, recreation facilities, trails, landscape ... operations, facilities management, community association management, hospitality, project ...

Center Operations Specialist The Center Operations Specialist position is responsible for executing ... event management, marketing, retail, customer service, recreation facility or related role.

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Recreation Operations Manager information

See Houston, TX salary details

$29.6K

$60.6K

$113.2K

How much do recreation operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for recreation operations manager in Houston, TX is $60,599.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,200.00 and $74,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a recreation operations manager?

Recreation Operations Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing the daily operations of recreational facilities, such as community centers, sports complexes, or parks. They manage staff, coordinate activities and programs, ensure facility safety and maintenance, and handle budgeting and administrative tasks. Their goal is to provide a safe, enjoyable, and well-run environment for patrons. Additionally, they often work with the public to address concerns and improve services. Effective Recreation Operations Managers combine strong leadership, organizational, and customer service skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a recreation operations manager?

To thrive as a Recreation Operations Manager, you need strong leadership abilities, experience in facility management, and a background in recreation or hospitality, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with scheduling software, budgeting tools, and risk management systems is typically required. Excellent interpersonal skills, problem-solving abilities, and customer service orientation help you excel in managing teams and engaging participants. These skills ensure smooth daily operations, high customer satisfaction, and safe, efficient facility management.

What are some common challenges faced by recreation operations managers, and how can they be addressed?

Recreation Operations Managers often encounter challenges such as balancing budget constraints with the need to offer engaging programs, managing seasonal staffing fluctuations, and ensuring all facilities meet safety and compliance standards. These challenges can be addressed by developing strong organizational and communication skills, fostering a flexible team environment, and staying up to date with industry regulations and best practices. Additionally, effective collaboration with other departments and community partners can help streamline operations and enhance the quality of recreational offerings.

What is the difference between Recreation Operations Manager vs Recreation Program Coordinator?

AspectRecreation Operations ManagerRecreation Program Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in recreation, leisure studies, or related field; certifications like CPR, First AidUsually requires a bachelor's degree or relevant experience; certifications like CPR, First Aid are common
Work EnvironmentOversees facility operations, staff management, budgeting in recreation centers or parksAssists in program planning, community outreach, and event coordination within recreation departments
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by municipal parks, recreation departments, and private recreation facilitiesCommonly employed in community centers, parks, and recreational organizations

The Recreation Operations Manager focuses on managing the overall operations, staff, and facilities, ensuring smooth daily functions. In contrast, the Recreation Program Coordinator primarily handles program development, community engagement, and event planning. Both roles require similar certifications and work within the recreation industry, but their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

Is a recreation operations manager degree worth it?

A recreation operations manager typically benefits from a degree in recreation management, leisure studies, or a related field, which provides knowledge of program planning, facility management, and customer service. While some positions may accept relevant experience in lieu of a degree, having formal education can improve job prospects and advancement opportunities in the field.

What are popular job titles related to Recreation Operations Manager jobs in Houston, TX?

For Recreation Operations Manager jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Houston, TX are hiring for Recreation Operations Manager jobs?

Cities near Houston, TX with the most Recreation Operations Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Recreation Operations Manager job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,599 per year, or $29.1 per hour.

Recreation Manager

Houston, TX โ€ข On-site

River Oaks Country Club
Traveler Accommodationย โ€ขย 201 - 500 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

River Oaks Country Club is seeking a Recreation Manager to lead our year-round aquatics operations and programming. This position reports to the Director of Recreation and oversees a team of Head Lifeguards, c.35 seasonal and year-round Lifeguards, swim instructors and coaches. High season runs March-August. Reduced operations continue through the off-season.
The ideal candidate is proactive, energetic, and highly organized, with a passion for hospitality and recreation management and dedicated to safety, service, and creating the ultimate poolside experience for our Members and guests.
Key Responsibilities
  • Manage daily pool operations, scheduling, payroll, attendance, and inventory.
  • Recruit, hire, train, and supervise lifeguards and instructors; oversee onboarding and certification tracking.
  • Plan and execute training programs, in-services, and ongoing safety and customer service development.
  • Coordinate aquatics programming and special events with the Head Swim Coach and Recreation team.
  • Monitor facility appearance and cleanliness; ensure all pools, decks, and locker areas meet Club standards.
  • Oversee pool maintenance and repair coordination; maintain accurate chemical, attendance, and incident logs.
  • Maintain control over Pro Shop and towel inventories; complete monthly reporting and ordering as needed.
  • Serve as Club representative during inspections when the Director of Recreation is unavailable.
  • Uphold all Club safety, service, and operating standards while ensuring an exceptional Member experience.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Recreation, Hospitality, Sports or Public Administration, or related field preferred.
  • Minimum 3 years' experience managing aquatics or recreation operations with supervisory responsibilities.
  • Strong leadership, organizational, and customer service skills.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays.
  • Certified Pool Operator (CPO) and Lifeguard Instructor (LGI) certifications preferred or willingness to obtain.
  • Comfortable working outdoors in hot, humid conditions for extended periods.

Personal Characteristics
High energy, self-motivated, friendly, dependable, and passionate about delivering safe and memorable experiences for Members and families.
River Oaks Country Club is an Equal Opportunity Employer: River Oaks Country Club grants equal employment opportunity to all qualified persons without regard to race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, genetic information, mental or physical disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local law.
Disclaimer: Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.