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Recreation Program Director Jobs in Rochester, NY

The Assistant Program Director provides assistance to the Director with the overall operation of ... and recreational wants and needs. Engages in and promotes interactions with residents which ...

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Recreation Program Director information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$29.1K

$70.4K

$137.1K

How much do recreation program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for recreation program director in Rochester, NY is $70,421.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,400.00 and $90,300.00 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 Rochester, NY?

The most popular types of Recreation Program jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What are popular job titles related to Recreation Program Director jobs in Rochester, NY?

For Recreation Program Director jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Recreation Program Director jobs in Rochester, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Recreation Program Director jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Recreation Program Director jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Recreation Program Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Recreation Program Director job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 44% Part Time, and 6% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $70,421 per year, or $33.9 per hour.

Senior Recreation Assistant/Seasonal & Part-Time

Rochester, NY • On-site


City of Rochester (NY)

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

126th of 851 rated public administrative organizations

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


$18.80/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

General Description This is a part-time and seasonal recreation position involving responsibility for assisting with and leading a variety of recreational, educational, and youth development activities at playgrounds, recreation centers, neighborhood facilities, or gymnasiums. The work is performed under the direct or indirect supervision of higher-level recreation staff. Incumbents in this position may lead Recreation Assistants and Youth Workers in the performance of their duties.

They may be required to work a variety of hours and shifts as demanded by the recreation program. Related work is performed as required. ** This is a year-round position (seasonal for part of the year and part-time for rest of the year) ** CITY RESIDENCY IS REQUIRED AT TIME OF APPLICATION.

Typical Work Activities Conducts education-related programs and services; Assists and leads daily recreation programs, including athletics, group games, and crafts; Assists in maintaining order and compliance with established recreation rules and regulations; Leads Recreation Assistants and Youth Workers in the performance of their duties; Assists in stocking and maintenance of supplies and equipment; May greet customers, answer phones, and assist the receptionist with other front desk duties; May drive a City vehicle to transport youth to various recreational facilities. Minimum Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent OR one (1) year of part-time (or full-time) experience as a member in the City of Rochester AmeriCorps Program, PLUS: One (1) year of part-time (or full-time) experience conducting or assisting with recreational, educational, or leisure programs. Work experience may have been acquired in recreation programs, camps, schools, or similar settings.

Note: Experience conducting or assisting with recreational, educational, or leisure programs may have been acquired within the City of Rochester AmeriCorps Program or different jobs/programs. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: New York State Driver's License is required at the time of appointment for employees assigned to locations that utilize City vehicles to transport youth. This licensure must be maintained throughout employment in this title* Possession of a Van Certification issued by the Department of Recreation and Human Services within one (1) year of appointment for employees assigned to locations that utilize City vehicles to transport youth.

This must be maintained throughout employment in this title** *This requirement does not apply to employees who only work during the summer months (June-September) **This requirement does not apply to employees who only work during the summer months (June-September)


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