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Recreation Program Director information

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$29.5K

$71.4K

$139K

How much do recreation program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for recreation program director in the United States is $71,372.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $91,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Recreation Program Director do?

A Recreation Program Director is responsible for planning, organizing, and overseeing recreational programs and activities for community centers, parks, schools, or other organizations. They manage staff, create schedules, budget for resources, and ensure that programs meet the needs and interests of participants. Additionally, they may collaborate with local agencies, promote events, and evaluate program effectiveness to enhance community engagement and well-being.

What is the difference between Recreation Program Director vs Recreation Coordinator?

AspectRecreation Program DirectorRecreation Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in recreation, leisure studies, or related field; certifications like CPR, First AidOften requires a high school diploma or associate degree; certifications like CPR, First Aid
Work EnvironmentLeads multiple programs, manages staff, oversees budgets in community centers, parks, or recreation departmentsAssists with program implementation, interacts directly with participants, supports program staff
ResponsibilitiesDevelops and manages recreation programs, supervises staff, plans budgets, evaluates program successCoordinates activities, assists with event setup, provides customer service, supports program delivery

The Recreation Program Director and Recreation Coordinator roles share some credentials and work environments, but the director typically has broader responsibilities, manages staff, and oversees multiple programs, while the coordinator focuses on supporting specific activities and participant engagement.

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

To thrive as a Recreation Program Director, you need expertise in program planning, budgeting, and a background in recreation management or a related field, often supported by a bachelor’s degree. Familiarity with scheduling software, facility management systems, and, in some cases, CPR/First Aid certification is typically required. Strong leadership, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills help you work effectively with staff, participants, and community partners. These abilities are vital for creating engaging programs, ensuring safety, and meeting the diverse needs of the community.

What are some common challenges faced by Recreation Program Directors when managing multiple programs simultaneously?

Recreation Program Directors often juggle several programs at once, which requires strong organizational and time-management skills. Common challenges include balancing limited resources, ensuring programs meet community needs, and adapting to last-minute changes such as staff shortages or facility issues. Directors must also coordinate with various stakeholders, including instructors, vendors, and community members, to keep programs running smoothly. Effective communication and flexibility are key to overcoming these challenges.
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Recreation Program Director jobs near you
Recreation Program Director

Recreation Program Director

Windsor Care Center of Sacramento

Stockton, CA • On-site

$35 - $38/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Are you looking for your new career? We are now hiring a Recreation Program Director to be the newest member of our awesome team! This position serves the mental health population and requires an active and valid license as an Art Therapist, Music Therapist, Dance Therapist, Recreation Therapist, Occupational Therapist, or Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant. This position is for our facility in Sacramento, CA.
Salary Range: $35-38 per hour.
We believe in cultivating a family culture and thrive on person-centered care, while building a positive culture focused on a shared vision, trust, communication and collaboration. Our mission is to provide compassionate, quality care that focuses on the unique needs of our residents and families. We believe in teamwork, respect, appreciation, and integrity.
What makes us special?
  • UKG Wallet - access to earned wages before pay day
  • Competitive Wages!
  • Great benefits - Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Growth Opportunities
  • Continuing Education / Training Opportunities

Are you ready to contribute to a team, committed to excellent customer service and dedicated to each individual's unique talent?
If yes, we are ready to meet you!
As a Recreation Program Director, you will develop, plan, organize and direct the implementation of activity/recreation programs in accordance with current state and federal guidelines and regulations, and Company policies and procedures. Programs are designed in accordance with the comprehensive assessment, the interests and the physical, mental, spiritual and psychosocial well-being of each resident.
Must have:
  • An active and valid license as an Art Therapist, Music Therapist, Dance Therapist, Recreation Therapist, Occupational Therapist, or Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant in the state OR completed a state approved training course.
  • Within the last 5 years, must have 2+ years' experience in a social or recreational program, with at least 1 year of full-time commitment in mental health/behavioral health setting
  • Flexible with the ability to adapt to change
  • Ability to organize, prioritize and meet deadlines
  • Must be able to read, write and speak the English language sufficiently to perform the essential functions of the job
  • Must be knowledgeable of nursing practices, procedures, terminology, laws, regulations, and guidelines that pertain to long-term care

Nice to have:
  • Bachelor's degree from accredited college
  • Certification or training in therapeutic recreation
  • Supervisory experience
  • Previous experience in Skilled Nursing environment

Equal Opportunity Employer
All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, veteran or disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Pay Transparency Statement
Compensation for roles varies depending on a wide array of factors including but not limited to the location, role, skill set and level of experience. As required by state or local law, we provide a reasonable pay scale to include the hourly or salary range that we reasonably expect to pay for roles, as stated above.
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.

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