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Recreation Program Director Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Recreation Specialist

Onalaska, WI · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Under the general supervision of the Parks & Recreation Director or designee this position is responsible for conducting programs and coordinating activities. Position is primarily assigned to the ...

Under the general supervision of the Parks & Recreation Director or designee this position is responsible for conducting programs and coordinating activities. Position is primarily assigned to the ...

WI · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Activities Director | Full-Time | Day Shift Join Our Team in Waupun, WI! Complete Care at Christian ... Have at least two (2) years of experience in a social or recreational program within the past five ...

WI · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Activities Director | Full-Time | Day Shift Join Our Team in Waupun, WI! Complete Care at Christian ... Have at least two (2) years of experience in a social or recreational program within the past five ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Wisconsin? The most popular types of Recreation Program jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Recreation Program Director jobs in Wisconsin? For Recreation Program Director jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Recreation Program Director jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Recreation Program Director jobs in Wisconsin are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Recreation Program Director jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Recreation Program Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Recreation Program Director job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Recreation Specialist

City of Onalaska, WI

Onalaska, WI • On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Temporary

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Salary: $18.00 - $19.00 Hourly
Location : CITY HALL, 415 Main St., Onalaska, WI
Job Type: Seasonal
Job Number: 2026-00030
Department: Parks & Recreation
Division: Recreation
Opening Date: 07/30/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Essential & Related Job Functions
Seeking students and adults with program knowledge! The City of Onalaska is hiring a Recreation Specialist. Under the general supervision of the Parks & Recreation Director or designee this position is responsible for conducting programs and coordinating activities. Position is primarily assigned to the Onalaska Dash Center.
Essential Job Functions:
  • Responsible for developing and implementing program structure and format.
  • Coordinates and directs program leader, instructor/ coordinator, coaches on format of program.
  • Develops tryout and practice plans, evaluates program participant's skill level and develops teams
  • Develops program roles and guidelines.
  • Develops, orders, and organizes program materials such as equipment, forms, uniforms and schedules
  • Reports injuries, facility hazards, and program concerns to the Recreation Manager or Coordinator.
  • Responds to accidents and emergencies in an appropriate manner; administering first aid according to your level of training, administering first aid according to the blood borne pathogen exposure control plan.
  • Completes incident and accident reports as required.
  • Responsible for the program equipment and the condition of equipment.
  • Organizes and administers training and organizational meetings.
  • Maintains communication with program participants, program staff and office staff.
  • Supervises other seasonal and part-time program staff and ensures they are providing appropriate instruction and supervision of participants.
  • Resolves conflicts or problems that occur while the program is functioning and between program staff and participants, and between members of the staff.
  • Assist with special events, office projects and research, requests for quotes, etc.
  • Contributes to a cooperative working effort by demonstrating a willingness to perform other job-related work, as needed or requested. The interdependency of operations is recognized and the abilities and skills exist to do other work as needed or requested. Assistance is given to others and special projects completed as scheduled or requested. This is a recognized and accepted part of being a member of the program staff.
  • Communicate plans policies and procedures to assigned staff.
  • Performs other duties as requested or assigned.

Compensation: Starting wage for this seasonal, limited-term position is $18.00 to $19.00 per hour, depending on qualifications. There are no benefits associated with limited-term positions.
To Apply: To be considered for this opportunity, submit an online employment application by accessing Position open until filled. Applications reviewed periodically upon submission.
Additional information: Minimum age 14. EOE/Drug Free Workplace.
Requirements of Work (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)
High School or college experience required. Must possess supervision and leadership techniques/skills. Experience playing, coaching or being part of a sport or program of similar nature. Current First Aid, CPR and AED certification required (class available upon hire). Valid driver's license required with good driving record.
Physical Requirements
The work environment characteristics described herein are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Refer to job description for details.
This position is a seasonal position and not eligible for benefits.
01
Do you have high school or college experience?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have supervision and leadership techniques and skills?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you have experience playing, coaching or being part of a sport or program of similar nature?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Are you certified in First Aid, CPR and AED? (class available upon hire)
  • Yes
  • No

05
Do you possess a valid driver's license with a good driving record?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question