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Recreation Operations Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Recreation Manager

Nashville, TN · On-site

$61K - $79K/yr

CORE WORK ACTIVITIES Supporting Recreation Operations • Supervises and manages employees. Supports day-to-day operations. Understands employee positions well enough to perform duties in employees ...

... Management, or related major; no work experience required ... CORE WORK ACTIVITIES Supporting Recreation Operations Supervises employees and supports day-to-day ...

Oversee daily operations of the Sports & Recreation department across a client account, ensuring ... Manage inventory for all sports equipment and facilities, ensuring they are maintained in top ...

Oversee daily operations of the Sports & Recreation department across a client account, ensuring ... Manage inventory for all sports equipment and facilities, ensuring they are maintained in top ...

Summary The Recreation Manager oversees all daily recreational operations across multiple program areas at The Harborside Pool Club. Reporting to the Recreation Director, this role provides ...

New

... recreation, and memorable guest experiences on Lake Texoma . Our portfolio includes cabins, RV ... As our company continues to expand, we are seeking a strong Operations Manager to help lead day-to ...

Campground Recreation Technician

Roosevelt, AZ · On-site

$35K - $44K/yr

S. Forest Service staff, Recreation Technicians, and campground hosts, with the primary focus of managing the daily operations of developed campgrounds and day use fee sites. The Recreation ...

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Recreation Operations Manager information

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$31K

$63.5K

$118.5K

How much do recreation operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for recreation operations manager in the United States is $63,456.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,000.00 and $77,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What does a recreation manager do?

A recreation operations manager oversees the planning, coordination, and management of recreational programs and facilities. They ensure programs run smoothly, supervise staff, manage budgets, and promote community engagement, often requiring strong organizational and communication skills. They may also handle safety protocols and work with vendors or partners to enhance recreational services.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Recreation Operations Manager, and why are they important?

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 are the highest paying recreation jobs?

High-paying recreation jobs include positions such as Recreation Director, Sports Complex Manager, and Recreation Operations Manager, often requiring leadership skills, certifications, and experience in facility management. Salaries vary based on location, organization size, and level of responsibility, with managerial roles typically earning higher wages than entry-level positions.

What jobs can an operations manager do?

An operations manager can work in various industries such as recreation, retail, manufacturing, healthcare, and hospitality. They oversee daily operations, manage staff, develop processes, and ensure organizational efficiency, often requiring skills in leadership, problem-solving, and familiarity with management tools. Their roles may include coordinating teams, budgeting, and implementing policies to improve service delivery or productivity.

What is the highest paying job in sports management?

In sports management, executive roles such as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) or President typically have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures annually. These positions require extensive experience, leadership skills, and often a background in business or sports administration.

What are Recreation Operations Managers?

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.
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What cities are hiring for Recreation Operations Manager jobs? Cities with the most Recreation Operations Manager job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Recreation Operations jobs? The most popular types of Recreation Operations jobs are:
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Infographic showing various Recreation Operations Manager job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,456 per year, or $30.5 per hour.
(Full-Time) Park Operations Supervisor

(Full-Time) Park Operations Supervisor

Huron-Clinton Metroparks

Brownstown, MI • On-site

$81K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

BARGAINING UNIT / LEVEL: Supervisory Bargaining Unit - Level 08X
SALARY RANGE: $81,516 - $ 90,020 annually DOQ
GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES: Under the direction of the Park Operations Manager, position is responsible for technical, professional and administrative work in supervising, event planning and coordinating the activities of workers engaged in park operations. This includes supervising provisional and seasonal employees engaged in park operations to include scheduling, training, assigning duties, performance appraisals and discipline. Participate in the preparation and administration of the park budget and responsible for monitoring operational expenditures in compliance with budget constraints.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES: The list below is intended to describe the general nature of duties only. Employees shall perform other duties as assigned.
  • Assist Park Operations Manager with operation of recreational facilities which may include, but are not limited to, tolling, beach, marinas, concessions, golf starter building, tot lots/playgrounds, tennis courts, boat rentals, shuffleboard courts, swimming pools/water parks, cross-country skiing and ice rink, etc.
  • Assist in developing and implementing special events and event planning activities.
  • Supervise procurement, inventory, receipt and accounting of equipment and supplies.
  • Supervise and coordinate tolling and other activities of the operations department.
  • Prepare and check operations reports.
  • Oversee data collection (zip codes) at facilities.
  • Hire provision and seasonal employees.
  • Supervises provisional and seasonal employees engaged in park operations to include scheduling, training, assigning duties, performance appraisals and discipline.
  • Develop and implement orientation program for seasonal and part-time employees.
  • Participate in the preparation and administration of the park budget. Responsible for monitoring operational expenditures in compliance with budget constraints.
  • Maintain records of attendance and monies received.
  • Responsible for the preparation of recreational facilities for the operating season.
  • Assure park facilities have supplies, change, etc. for daily operation.
  • Account for the collection of fees, balance transactions and consolidate funds for deposit.
  • Design and implement revenue controls such as cash register receipts, rental tickets, etc. to assure compliance with HCMA policy and to prevent or detect fraud.
  • Responsible for production of revenue reports on computer.
NON-ESSENTIAL:
  • May respond to inquiries from the public to include answering the phone, preparing written correspondence, presentations to visitors and civic organizations to inform the public of park regulations and available recreational facilities.
  • May respond to patron complaints and concerns.
  • May serve on various committees (Safety Committee, Strategic Planning Committee, etc.).
  • May provide back-up and support for Park Operations Manager and other Park Operations Supervisors within assigned Park District.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Associate degree in related field, Bachelor's preferred. Applicants with 4 or more years of related service will be given credit toward meeting the minimum educational requirements and will be considered for the position.
  • Two years of supervisory or five years of experience in park and recreation operations.
  • Experience in event planning preferred.
  • Knowledge of accounting principles, budget controls, auditing, cash controls and professional standards and ethics.
  • Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws governing employment and business operations.
  • Knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures, filing and record management systems, computer applications such as word processing, data base programs and spreadsheets, and other office procedures.
  • Knowledge of and/or ability to gain working knowledge of RecTrac, WebTrac and New World programs.
  • Ability to work under stressful conditions and varied hours depending upon park demands.
  • Ability to use mathematics to solve problems, account for cash, design and produce financial and other reports.
  • Ability to work under stressful conditions and varied hours including weekends and holidays, depending upon park demands.
  • Ability to establish effective working relationship with subordinates, co-workers, supervisors, and park visitors.
  • Ability to execute fair and objective performance evaluations and create a productive work environment.
  • Ability to prepare, analyze and maintain applicable records and reports.
  • Possession of an Aquatic Facility Operator certification or ability to attain within 1 year of employment.
  • Possession of a ServSafe Manager certification or ability to attain within 1 year of employment.
  • Possession of a valid Michigan operator's license and acceptable driving record.
  • Possession of an American Red Cross Lifeguard certification preferred.
  • May be assigned to work in other parks and districts as needed and if necessary.
  • May be required to adjust schedule to meet organizational needs, including special events, evenings, weekends & holidays.
  • Ability to perform essential duties
TOOLS & EQUIPMENT USED Personal computer including data base, scheduling, publishing, spreadsheet, and word processing software; calculator, copy & fax machines; phone, radios, automobile.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to walk, sit, talk and hear. The employee is occasionally required to use hands to handle, feel or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance, stoop, kneel, or crouch. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision and the ability to adjust focus.
WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee frequently works in outside weather conditions. The employee may be exposed to heat, wet and/or humid conditions, chemicals, animals, foliage and vegetation, etc. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet while in the office and may be moderately loud when out in the field.