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Recreation Program Director Jobs in Portland, OR

After School Teacher

Portland, OR · On-site

$22.50 - $23.18/hr

... recreational, and other life-sustaining services. Job Title - After School Teacher FLSA ... Report to - Director of School Aged Programs Work environment - 1737 NW 26th Ave. Portland, OR ...

After School Teacher

Portland, OR · On-site

$22.50 - $23.18/hr

... recreational, and other life-sustaining services. Job Title - After School Teacher FLSA ... Report to - Director of School Aged Programs Work environment - 1737 NW 26th Ave. Portland, OR ...

... recreational, and other life-sustaining services. Job Title - After School Teacher FLSA ... Report to - Director of School Aged Programs Work environment - 1737 NW 26th Ave. Portland, OR ...

Activity Director

West Linn, OR · On-site

$20.25 - $27.75/hr

... program development. RESPONSIBILITIES Include but are not limited to the following: * Develop and ... Oversee the creation, implementation, and evaluation of a wide range of recreational and ...

After School Assistant Techer

Portland, OR · On-site

$21.50 - $22.15/hr

... recreational, and other life-sustaining services. Job Title - After School Assistant Teacher FLSA ... Report to - Director of School Aged Programs Work environment - 1737 NW 26th Ave. Portland, OR ...

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Recreation Program Director information

See Portland, OR salary details

$31.3K

$75.7K

$147.4K

How much do recreation program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for recreation program director in Portland, OR is $75,691.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,800.00 and $97,000.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Recreation Program jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Recreation Program jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Recreation Program Director jobs in Portland, OR? For Recreation Program Director jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Recreation Program Specialist

City of St. Helens, Oregon

Saint Helens, OR

$18.16 - $20/hr

Part-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Are you a people person? Outgoing? Want to make a difference? The City of St. Helens is seeking an enthusiastic Recreation Program Specialist to join our team. This part-time position offers the chance to get paid to have fun and play while supporting community engagement by planning and delivering recreation programs for people of all ages.

In this role, you will help plan, lead, and support a variety of activities and events while working with a dedicated recreation team. If you enjoy games, activities, and making a positive impact in the community, we encourage you to apply.

We do have programs at St. Helens School District facilities; candidates must successfully complete a pre-employment background check and drug screening through the St. Helens School District as well as the City of St. Helens onboarding requirements.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

GENERAL

  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • CPR/AED/First Aid certified (or ability to obtain within two weeks of hire date).
  • Must have or be able to obtain a valid driver's license by hire date.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED).

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

  • Knowledge of word processing, spreadsheets, and other recreation related computer software.
  • Knowledge of web-based activity programs (Rec Desk, Canva, etc.).
  • Knowledge of developing and administering youth programs.
  • Working knowledge of the rules of a variety of sports.
  • Ability to work under stressful situations; ability to stay calm; have excellent problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work evenings and weekends when necessary.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers and public; ability to follow written and oral instructions; ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing; ability to direct the work of others.

Please see job description for a complete list of duties, qualifications, and requirements.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

  • Part-time position
  • Starting hourly rate: $18.16
  • 20 hours per week, may include evenings and weekends
  • PERS Retirement after six (6) months
  • This is not a union covered position

The City of St. Helens is an equal opportunity employer.


Successful candidates will be required to pass a background investigation, including criminal and driving records, personal and professional references, and will be subjected to drug/alcohol screening.