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Recreation Program Director Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

The J

Director, Sports and Recreation

Chesterfield, MO · On-site

$70K/yr

The Director of Sports & Recreation is responsible for overseeing all aspects of planning ... Plan, staff, and implement programming for adult and youth sport programs, special events, leagues ...

Commonpoint Queens

Working closely with the Senior Director of Operations, Director of Tennis, and site leadership ... Essential Responsibilities Program Development Design and launch new tennis and recreation programs ...

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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?

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 Missouri? The most popular types of Recreation Program jobs in Missouri are:
What are popular job titles related to Recreation Program Director jobs in Missouri? For Recreation Program Director jobs in Missouri, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Recreation Program Director jobs in Missouri look for? The top searched job categories for Recreation Program Director jobs in Missouri are:
What cities in Missouri are hiring for Recreation Program Director jobs? Cities in Missouri with the most Recreation Program Director job openings:
Recreation Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreation Program Director job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, and 26% Part Time. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Director, Sports and Recreation

The J

Chesterfield, MO • On-site

$70K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

The salary for this position is $70,000 per year, plus benefits and perks.

The Director of Sports & Recreation is responsible for overseeing all aspects of planning, development, and implementation of the J’s adult and youth sports programming. The Director of Sports & Recreation will supervise the Sports & Recreation Coordinator and several part-time staff who aid in the planning and implementation of these programs. Additionally, the Director of Sports & Recreation will work closely and support Camp and Youth Program Directors with implementing camp programming. 

  • Plan, staff, and implement programming for adult and youth sport programs, special events, leagues, and tournaments. Partner with other J departments (i.e., Early Childhood or Family Center) for programming ideas, needs, and audience outreach. Ensure continuity and consistency is maintained across both locations.
  • Hire, train, supervise, mentor, and evaluate staff including the Sports & Recreation Coordinator to carry out assigned programs and activities. Ensure all employees are current on required certifications and safety training. Set clear expectations for each member of the team, hold accountable, provide guidance and feedback on a regular basis.
  • Develop the budget for Sports & Recreation programs and monitor for progress on a monthly basis as a part of annual goals for programs.
  • Together with Volunteer Coordinator, recruit, train, and mentor volunteers for Sports and Recreation programs, leagues, and special events.
  • Develop and oversee all systems and procedures of registration and program administration (paperwork, parent communication, registration, etc.).
  • Work closely with J Marketing Department to develop and implement sales/marketing operating initiatives and budgets.
  • Develop and implement strategies for improving program participation and financial outcomes for programs.
  • Observe participant behavior, assess its appropriateness, enforce appropriate safety regulations and emergency procedures, teach, and monitor proper use of equipment, and apply appropriate behavior management techniques.
  • Ensure excellent customer service and customer responsiveness to both inside and outside customers.
  • Develop plans to evaluate programs relative to mission and goals for the JCC using existing Logic Models and survey technology. Ensure that J goals are used in evaluation process.
  • Understand and be committed to the mission and vision of the Jewish Community Center. Be knowledgeable about the J and its programs. Be an advocate for the J and its programs and staff. Participate in and promote both programs and events.
  • Develop and ensure effective collaboration with relevant Jewish and general community organizations and with other staff throughout the J.
  • Work with volunteer committees to support and promote growth in programming.
  • Actively take part in assisting with other J programming as requested.
  • Other duties as assigned by supervisor.
  • BA/BS in Social Work, Sports Management, Recreation, Psychology, Education, Human Services or related field is required. MA/MS preferred.
  • Prior experience with sports and recreation programs is required.
  • Prior experience working on staff at a camp and or as an educator is strongly preferred.
  • Three to five years of experience in human services, supervision of staff, program development, budgeting and oversight is preferred.
  • Excellent communication-both written and oral, leadership and interpersonal skills are required.
  • Scheduling flexibility to attend regular weekend programming as well as occasional evening meetings.
  • Prefer experience/success increasing programming participation in for profit or not for profit environments. Should have understanding of marketing strategies for program growth.
  • Ability to anticipate and solve practical problems or resolve issues.
  • Must be highly skilled in MS Office suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
  • Strong preference of knowledge of Jewish traditions and culture.
  • Prefer experience in Board and/or Lay Committee interface.

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