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Recreation Program Director Jobs in Meriden, CT (NOW HIRING)

Recreational Therapist Manager

Hartford, CT · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Recreation Therapist Manager ensures that program activities are developmentally appropriate ... This position supervises and guides direct support staff, coordinates community-based activities ...

Recreational Therapist Manager

Hartford, CT · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Recreation Therapist Manager ensures that program activities are developmentally appropriate ... This position supervises and guides direct support staff, coordinates community-based activities ...

Recreational Therapist Manager

Hartford, CT · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Recreation Therapist Manager ensures that program activities are developmentally appropriate ... This position supervises and guides direct support staff, coordinates community-based activities ...

Showing results 21-40

Recreation Program Director information

See Meriden, CT salary details

$28.9K

$70K

$136.2K

How much do recreation program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for recreation program director in Meriden, CT is $69,952.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,100.00 and $89,700.00 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 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 job categories do people searching Recreation Program Director jobs in Meriden, CT look for?

The top searched job categories for Recreation Program Director jobs in Meriden, CT are:

What cities near Meriden, CT are hiring for Recreation Program Director jobs?

Cities near Meriden, CT with the most Recreation Program Director job openings:

Assistant Director of Recreation Therapy / Activities

National Health Care Associates Inc.

Seymour, CT • On-site

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago


National Health Care Associates rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

A Great Place to Work

Shady Knoll Center for Health & Rehabilitation is a proud affiliate of National Health Care Associates. As a Certified Great Place to Work, we think that you are going to love it here. Your work will be meaningful to you. You will make a genuine difference in the lives of our aging guests and the families that love them. You will enjoy lasting bonds with the families you meet and with the teams you work on. And if you desire, you will experience real career growth where your expertise and dedication is valued and appreciated. We invite you to join our team!

Location:  41 Skokorat St, Seymour, Connecticut, 06483


Assistant Director of Therapeutic Recreation

Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) credential required

What You'll Do:

As an Assistant Director of Therapeutic Recreation / Activities, you will help develop and oversee a vibrant and engaging activities program in our communities.  Your creative and compassionate approach will contribute to the overall well-being and happiness of those we serve.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Assist director to develop, implement, and oversee therapeutic recreation programs for residents
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to assess residents' needs and preferences
  • Provide leadership and guidance to the therapeutic recreation team
  • Organize and facilitate a variety of opportunities for entertainment, exercise, relaxation, and expression while fulfilling residents' basic psychological, social, and spiritual needs
  • Create a warm and inclusive environment that encourages resident participation
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of programs and make adjustments as needed
  • Assist the familes of physically, emotionally, and cognitively impaired individuals to explore appropriate hobbies and leisure activities

If you're passionate about creating meaningful and engaging recreational programs for seniors in an environment where your expertise and dedication are valued and appreciated, we invite you to join our team as an Assistant Director of Therapeutic Recreation / Activities.  


What We Offer

As an affiliate of National Health Care, our Shady Knoll family will enjoy:

  • Competitive compensation and benefits package including a 10% defined contribution retirement plan
  • Comprehensive training and mentorship
  • Opportunities for professional growth and development
  • Supportive and collaborative work environment
  • The chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our residents

What You'll Bring:

Qualifications of an Assistant Director of Therapeutic Recreation / Activities:

  • Bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Recreation or a related field
  • Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) credential preferred
  • Proven experience in developing and leading therapeutic recreation programs
  • Strong organizational and leadership skills
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
  • Compassion and empathy in working with seniors
  • Interest in the needs of the aged and the chronically ill with the ability to work with both
  • Creative mindset with excellent organizational interpersonal skills
  • Ability to collaborate with team members, residents, and families to create a positive and inclusive environment 

We Hire for Heart!

National Health Care Associates (National) is proud to be a family-run organization since 1984. Like family, each of National’s centers are unique but share common values: Kindness, Service, Compassion and Excellence.  Today, our centers include more than 40 premier providers of short-term rehabilitation, skilled nursing, and post-hospital care including several named “Best Of” by US News & World Report.  When you join the team at a National center, you join a team that provides life-changing care to thousands of patients, residents, and families in a Great Place to Work Certified environment.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status.


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