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Recreation Program Director Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

... youth programs, recreation, working with children, or in a related field. * Demonstrated ability to work as a member of a team and the ability to accomplish tasks with little direct supervision.

Program Aide

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$17.23 - $18/hr

This position provides direct assistance during recreational, educational, and outreach activities by welcoming participants, preparing program spaces, monitoring safety, and helping facilitate a ...

Sports Director

Winona, MN · On-site

$50K - $53K/yr

The Sports Director is responsible for the overall operations of the Sports department and will ensure safety, high quality and growth of sports and recreation programs. The Director is responsible ...

Showing results 41-60

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?

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 Minnesota?

The most popular types of Recreation Program jobs in Minnesota are:

What are popular job titles related to Recreation Program Director jobs in Minnesota?

For Recreation Program Director jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Recreation Program Director jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Recreation Program Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Recreation Program Director job openings in Minnesota as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Camp Lead - Hourly

YMCA of the USA

Babbitt, MN • On-site

$17/hr

Temporary

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Description
At Camp Northern Lights, our mission is to create a safe and joyful environment where kids and families can thrive and explore. As a Camp Host, you will play a key role in bringing this mission to life by supporting daily camp operations, preparing cabins and program spaces, and delivering high-quality outdoor experiences in the beautiful north woods. From greeting families and maintaining facilities to leading cross country skiing and teaching wilderness skills, you'll help create memorable moments for families of all backgrounds. This role is ideal for someone who is great at problem solving, creative thinking and is self motivated. This role runs from September to the end of May.
The salary for this position starts at $17.00 hourly. We take into consideration an individual's background and experience in determining salary; therefore, base pay offered may vary considerably depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The compensation package includes a wide range of other benefits and earned time off that vary depending on part-time or full-time status.
1. Job Summary:
The Camp Host is responsible for assisting the Fall, Winter, Spring Program Director in preparing camp and cabins for families as well as facilitating a variety of program experiences for the families we serve. Examples may include but are not limited to cleaning cabins, leading hikes, teaching wilderness skills, snow shoeing, cross country skiing etc. The incumbent provides high-quality experiences for campers that focus on the YMCA care values: caring, honesty, equity, respect and responsibility.
2. Essential Functions:
  • Clean and sanitize cabins to prepare for families.

  • Clean all program spaces.

  • Be flexible and excited to assist in problem solving.

  • Greet families upon arrival and assist them with any questions or requests.

  • Staff the camp store: make espresso drinks, answer the phone, and enter purchases into our computer system

  • Able to accomplish tasks with little direct supervision.

  • Oversee and monitor camp when the Program Director isn't present.

3. Relationships:
This position reports to the Camp Program Director who reports to the Camp Executive Director. The incumbent interacts regularly with camp staff and families. This position involves interacting with camp staff and families from diverse backgrounds.
4. Qualifications:
  • Minimum age of 18.

  • Upon hire, completion of YMCA provided First Aid and BLS certification.

  • Minimum of one (1) season experience in camp, youth programs, recreation, working with children, or in a related field.

  • Demonstrated ability to work as a member of a team and the ability to accomplish tasks with little direct supervision.

  • Strong organizational and communication skills.

  • If applicable, Oxygen Administration certification (may not Lifeguard until certification is complete).

Preferred
  • Ability to pass a drivers road test for YMCA vehicles and trailers

  • Upon hire, completion of YMCA provided Motor Vehicle and or Department of Transportation Insurance Training.

5. Work Conditions:
  • Must have the physical ability to lead and participate in camp activities which may include, but are not limited to, hiking, canoeing, swimming, team building initiatives, building campfires, sauna stoking, physical games, and activities.

  • Must have the ability to manage and physically support children when needed for safety in general camp activities (child weighing 50 - 200 pounds).

  • May be required to lift up to 70 pounds depending upon specific work responsibility.

  • Ability to perform a variety of tasks outdoors in different climates.

  • If applicable, hear noises and distress signals in the aquatic environment, including in the water and anywhere around the zone of responsibility, with or without reasonable accommodation.

  • If applicable, see and observe all sections of an assigned zone of responsibility, with or without reasonable accommodation.

  • Be on-call throughout evenings and early mornings to serve camper needs.

6. Additional Notes:
This job description represents the major functions of the position but is not intended to be all-inclusive. The incumbent is responsible for taking direction from the Camp Program Director or their representatives in completing projects or performing duties deemed necessary for the Branch or Association success.