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Recreation Program Director Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

This role involves planning, organizing, directing, and engaging in a comprehensive therapeutic recreation program designed to meet both the general and specific needs of frail elderly participants.

This role involves planning, organizing, directing, and engaging in a comprehensive therapeutic recreation program designed to meet both the general and specific needs of frail elderly participants.

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Recreation Program Director information

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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Recreation Program jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Recreation Program jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Recreation Program Director jobs in Indiana? For Recreation Program Director jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Recreation Program Director jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Recreation Program Director job openings:
Correctional Recreation Coordinator

Correctional Recreation Coordinator

State of Indiana

Pendleton, IN • On-site

$47K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


State Of Indiana rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 185 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

43rd of 50 rated states


Job description

Work for Indiana
Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana.
About Pendleton Juvenile Correctional Facility:
Pendleton Juvenile Correctional Facility is a maximum-security facility located in Pendleton, Indiana, with 391 beds for incarcerated juvenile males. The facility includes multiple general population housing complexes, an admission and orientation unit, and a secure housing area. Its campus-style layout includes medical services, food and laundry operations, indoor recreation areas, a chapel, and Providence Jr./Sr. High School. Outdoor recreation areas include fields, courts, and a running track. The perimeter is monitored 24/7 to ensure safety. Programs focus on treatment, vocational skills, education, and re-entry preparation. To learn more about Pendleton Juvenile Correctional Facility, click here.
Role Overview:
The Recreation Coordinator is responsible for administering the recreation program. In addition, the incumbent assures that the recreation programs are appropriate, effective, and safe. The objective is to design programming ito facilitate personal growth, well-being, and successful re-entry.
Salary:
The salary for this position traditionally starts at $47,320.00 but may be commensurate with education and work experience. Use our Compensation Calculator to view the total compensation package.
A Day in the Life:
The essential functions of this role are as follows:
  • Plans, directs, coordinates, and integrates recreational activities to meet specific needs, interests, and abilities of inmates.
  • Supervises preparation of budget estimates for the recreation program, personnel, equipment, supplies, and facilities.
  • Plans, assigns, and supervises the work of recreational personnel in specific program areas and activities to ensure a well-rounded, effective recreation program.
  • Conducts studies for developing new recreation techniques.
  • Performs first-line supervisor's duties such as employee counseling, on-the-job training, and appraising employee performance.
  • Supervises the keeping of complete and accurate departmental records.
  • Supervises the recruitment and transferring of all inmates to their recreational personnel work responsibilities.
  • Handles and reports discipline problems of inmates.
  • Supervises proper maintenance of all recreational equipment and recreation building.
  • Performs related work as required.

The job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.
This position is exempt from overtime compensation for additional work hours which may be required to complete essential functions or other assigned work. Exempt employees may work more than 75 hours in a pay period without additional compensation and must report a minimum of 75 hours per pay period of work hours and/or paid leave taken to receive their base biweekly salary.
What You'll Need for Success:
Individuals in this role should minimally be able to articulate or demonstrate the following:
  • Extensive knowledge of the principles and practices of an institutional recreation program.
  • Extensive knowledge of the rules and regulations of a variety of sports, games, and other recreational activities.
  • Considerable knowledge of recreation and its value in a corrective and rehabilitative educational program.
  • Specialized knowledge of both the basic philosophy of recreation and individual and group behavior.
  • Working knowledge of the principles and practices of recreation administration.
  • General knowledge of Department of Correction rules and regulations and working knowledge of the institution's policies and procedures.
  • Ability to plan, assign and supervise the work of others engaged in a recreation program.
  • Ability to adopt recreation policies, procedures, plans, methods, tools, and techniques to specific situations.
  • Ability to establish and maintain harmonious relationships with inmates and handle disciplinary problems.
  • Ability to maintain complete and accurate departmental records.

A degree is not required.
Individuals should have the ability to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports:
This role may provide direct supervision for one or more staff members.
This role provides supervision for incarcerated individuals and requires a high level of judgment and care.
Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:
The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees which includes:
  • Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans
  • Wellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards
  • Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution
  • Deferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer match
  • Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options
  • A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to:
    • 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers
    • Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave
  • Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off
  • 12 paid holidays, 14 on election years
  • Education Reimbursement Program
  • Group life insurance
  • Referral Bonus program
  • Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits
  • Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
  • Free Parking for most positions
  • Free LinkedIn Learning access

Equal Employment Opportunity:
The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of a role. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, you can request assistance by contacting the Indiana State Personnel Department at jobs@spd.IN.gov.
Current Employee? Click here to apply.

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