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Recreation Program Director Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Salvation Army

Program Director

Chicago, IL

$72K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

JOB SUMMARY The Program Director will work with a team to provide coordination of services in the areas of recreation, education, community networking, and program marketing. This individual is ...

Northbrook Park District

Program Site Director

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Join our amazing team as a Program Site Director. This position is responsible for supervising the ... Employee Recreation Benefits To view , click here. Must be at least 18 years of age and have two ...

NORTHBROOK PARK DISTRICT

Program Site Director

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$20 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Join our amazing team as a Program Site Director. This position is responsible for supervising the ... Employee Recreation Benefits To view , click here. Must be at least 18 years of age and have two ...

KESHET

Director of Camp and Recreation

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

SUPERVISOR: Chief Program Officer JOB STATUS: Full Time /Salary / Exempt SCHEDULE: Sunday ... Keshet Recreation Programs HIGHLIGHTS: As the Director of Recreationat Keshet, you would be ...

Skokie Park District

SPACE Program Director

Skokie, IL

$18 - $20/hr

... school recreational childcare program for registered student participants. Duties include ... Attends monthly Director meetings and other meetings and trainings as requested. Maintains an open ...

Sertoma Star Services

Recreation Supervisor

Lansing, IL · On-site

$36K - $52K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Conduct vehicle inspections before use. * Assist Program Director with program development and operation of Sertoma Star Services Special Recreation programs, day camp, leisure education and ...

Sertoma Star Services

Recreation Supervisor

Lansing, IL

$36K - $52K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Conduct vehicle inspections before use. * Assist Program Director with program development and operation of Sertoma Star Services Special Recreation programs, day camp, leisure education and ...

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All JobsRecreation Program JobsRecreation Program Director JobsRecreation Program Director Jobs in Chicago, IL

Recreation Program Director information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30.4K

$73.5K

$143.2K

How much do recreation program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for recreation program director in Chicago, IL is $73,524.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,400.00 and $94,300.00 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 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 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 most commonly searched types of Recreation Program jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Recreation Program jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Recreation Program Director jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Recreation Program Director jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Recreation Program Director jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Recreation Program Director jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Recreation Program Director job openings:

Recreation Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreation Program Director job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,524 per year, or $35.3 per hour.

Program Director

The Salvation Army Central Territory

Chicago, IL • On-site

$72K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago

Salvation Army rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 362 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

573rd of 772 rated non-profit organizations

Job description

THE SALVATION ARMY
NORTH & CENTRAL ILLINOIS DIVISION
Adele and Robert Stern Red Shield Community Center
JOB DESCRIPTION
JOB TITLE: Program Director
LOCATION/DEPT: Adele and Robert Stern Red Shield Community Center
PEOPLE MANAGER: Yes
REPORTS TO (TITLE): Corps Officer
FLSA CATEGORY: Exempt
STATUS TYPE: RFT
PAY GRADE: 209
PAY RANGE: $72,850
WHO WE ARE
At The Salvation Army, we are dedicated to Doing the Most Good. We are made up of thousands of officers, soldiers, staff, volunteers, donors, and partners working together to holistically meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of our most vulnerable neighbors.
JOB SUMMARY
The Program Director will work with a team to provide coordination of services in the areas of recreation, education, community networking, and program marketing. This individual is responsible to ensure that the Adele and Robert Stern Red Shield Community Center is used to its full capacity, its programs are financially sustainable and the overall Corps' budget is fiscally sound. This position will also ensure that the mission of the Salvation Army is carried out in all community center programs and special events. All related duties will be performed with a spirit of excellence, in a professional manner and in accordance with Salvation Army policies and procedures.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Community Center
  1. Provide primary leadership of programs and service management in order to develop high quality programs within a sound fiscal structure and in-line with the Corps' mission and ministry objectives. This includes:
    1. Program operational needs.
    2. Purchasing, supply and equipment requirements.
    3. Staffing needs.
    4. Program evaluation and quality control.
  2. Diversify programs to meet age and ethnic demographics.
    1. Programming for pre-school, youth, teen, adult, senior, families, special needs.
    2. Offer programs that celebrate cultural diversity.
    3. Programming will be offered in the areas of Sports, Fitness, Cultural Arts, Outdoor Recreation, General Programs, and Special Events.
  3. Provide 3-5 new or improved classes or programs each program season; followed by ongoing program development and program maintenance.
  4. Develop/update annually both short and long term outlines for program and service priorities. Included in this will be to identify required staff, funding and fees.
  5. Develop program and fees in line with the fee continuum pyramid.
    1. Assist in the development of a formal fee policy which will guide program and service fee determinations.
    2. Lead the development and execution of membership growth strategies, ensuring strong recruitment, retention, and overall community engagement.
    3. Design, implement, and evaluate high quality programs, membership, and fitness experiences that align with organizational goals, meet community needs, and promote a welcoming, inclusive environment.
  6. Ensure maintenance and inventory of gym and community center equipment and supplies.
    1. Report all facility problems to Corps Officers.
    2. Ensure attractive appearance and cleanliness of the facility.
    3. Establish an on-going preventative maintenance program for assigned areas.
    4. Replace equipment and order supplies as budgeted and with CO's approval.

Community Outreach
  1. Oversee all marketing efforts for the center.
    1. Create and distribute a recreation program brochure (Summer/Fall/Winter-Spring).
    2. Manage all online information to ensure current promotional materials.
    3. Update information monitors, outside electronic sign, and in house bulletin boards.
  2. Partner and network with other agencies and program providers.
    1. Prevent program or service duplication.
    2. Identify opportunities for other agencies to use our space to create revenue.
  3. Represent the Salvation Army events at public gatherings including local schools, churches, other organizations and agencies.

Oversight and Administration
  1. Provide leadership in ensuring the development of sound programming.
    1. Comprehensive programs are offered in sports, fitness and health (including leagues, tournaments, classes and organized activities and rentals.).
    2. Identify and develop innovative service programs such as after school, day camp and home school programs.
    3. Evaluate program effectiveness in light of ministry and fiscal objectives.
    4. Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting.
  2. Give oversight and supervision to the Corps Community Center team and volunteers.
    1. Ensure all positions are recruited and hired in accordance with policies, procedures, and child safety guidelines (Safe from Harm).
    2. Ensure that staff and volunteers are trained and supervised in a way that results in a motivated team focused on program and ministry objectives.
      1. Provide feedback on performance of duties.
      2. Ensure everyone receive training on customer service.
    3. Provide direction to staff in building maintenance/cleaning/safety and risk management.
      1. Maintain a safe working environment through training of staff and maintenance of equipment.
    4. Ensure effective staff scheduling that provides appropriate service and coverage levels.
  3. Other Duties.
    1. Provide timely responses.
    2. Check lotus notes correspondence and voice messages frequently. Return messages within the day, no later than 24 hours of receipt.
    3. Be present at all staff meetings.
    4. Assist with statistical reporting.
    5. Teach and/or assist in Bible lessons /studies
    6. All other duties as assigned.

OTHER DUTIES
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
Education: An Associates or Bachelor's Degree in Recreation or Child Development; comparable experience considered.
Experience:
  • 2 years experience in a similar position including program development and community interaction.
  • Valid Driver's license/MVR clearance.

Skills/Abilities:
  • Willing to promote the mission of The Salvation Army.
  • The demonstrated ability to manage projects, priorities, and staff or volunteers in a constantly changing environment.
  • A willingness to learn and understand other perspectives.
  • The ability to multi-task while keeping a strong awareness of deadlines.
  • An understanding of effective community center ministry, especially in cross cultural and urban environments.
  • Effective written and oral communication skills, especially in public presentations.

JOB LIMITATIONS
  • This individual will only commit Army resources that have been allocated or approved.
  • This individual will keep the Corps Officer and other pertinent staff members informed on all critical issues relating to their area of responsibility.
  • This individual will not fail to accurately represent the teachings or position statements of The Salvation Army or use this position to pursue self-interests or those of outside groups or individuals
  • This individual will adhere to all policies and procedures in carrying out the responsibilities of this position.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT
  • This position is required to do light physical work.
  • In order to successfully perform the essential functions of this position, the employee is regularly required to participate in community center activities.
  • Must be able to use standard office equipment and a PC, as well as lift or move up to 50lbs.
  • The work environment for this position includes a community center environment with a moderate to high noise level.
  • Must be able to drive and walk stairs.
  • Maintain positive work atmosphere by behaving and communicating in a manner that fosters and maintains positive relationships with co-workers and supervisors. This would include but not be limited to such actions: resolution of conflicts in a positive manner; courteous treatment of staff, clients and visitors; respect of others' property and person, professional and appropriate communication to and about co-workers, supervisors and subordinates. Support the Mission of The Salvation Army by treating every donor, contact and colleague with respect and dignity, and without discrimination of any kind.

COMPENTENCIES:
  • An interpersonal style that engages people from diverse backgrounds and builds understanding and trust.
  • A communication and management style that display the principles and values of the Army as well as fosters team relationships and effectively communicates information.
  • The ability to anticipate and respond to issues in a positive and timely manner; using the best judgment.
  • A growing knowledge of the history of the Salvation Army, its mission and structure as well as its services, policies, and procedures.

PERFORMANCE MEASURMENTS
This individual will be evaluated on how effectively the outcomes of this position are achieved, as well as the timeliness, accuracy and completeness of accomplishing assigned goals.
Timeliness and accuracy of accomplishing assigned goals will be reviewed and an evaluation of how effectively service is provided will be reviewed.
A 30, 60, and 90-day performance review will be conducted.
MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENT
This position has an essential role in fulfilling the full mission of The Salvation Army. Because of the integral nature of this responsibility, active attendance and membership in the Salvation Army Englewood Red Shield Corps worship activities is required.
DOING THE MOST GOOD
Do you want to use your skills and talents to make a lasting difference in the world? The Salvation Army is the fourth largest charity in the United States and is an international organization based on Biblical principles created to help people in need. We are mission-driven, diverse, collaborative, and focused on positive results for people. Join us in making a difference.
The Salvation Army offers a competitive benefit package for eligible employees which may include the following medical, dental, vision, hearing, disability and life insurance, flexible spending accounts, 403(b) retirement accounts, a company-funded defined contribution (pension) plan and generous time off policies.
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation to apply for this position, please contact the Human Resources department.
The Salvation Army is an Equal Opportunity Employer Minority/Female/Veterans/Disabled. Candidates who are back-to-work, US Veterans, people with disabilities, people who have been impacted by the justice system, and/or people without a college degree are encouraged to apply.

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About Salvation Army

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The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Industry

Non-profits, retail, amusement, gambling, and recreation and religious organizations

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US

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