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Recreation Program Director Jobs in Rochester, NY

Thompson Health

Recreation Therapist

Canandaigua, NY · On-site

$21 - $29/hr

... and activity programs within a skilled nursing environment and Alzheimer's Memory Unit. This ... The Recreation Therapist also collaborates with the Recreation Therapy Manager and Director of ...

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All JobsRecreation Program Director JobsRecreation Program Director Jobs in Rochester, NY

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 Jun 27, 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 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, and why are they important?

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 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:
Recreation Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreation Program Director job openings in Rochester, NY as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 5% Summer. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $70,421 per year, or $33.9 per hour.
Recreation Therapist

Recreation Therapist

Thompson Health

Canandaigua, NY • On-site

$21 - $29/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Thompson Health rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Schedule:
Full Time, days - 8:30am - 5pm (flexible) rotating weekends, and evening shifts
Main Function:
The Recreation Therapist plays a key role in enhancing quality of life for residents by planning, coordinating, and delivering engaging therapeutic recreation and activity programs within a skilled nursing environment and Alzheimer's Memory Unit. This position focuses on supporting residents' physical, cognitive, emotional, and social well-being through meaningful, person-centered experiences aligned with individualized care plans, facility policies, and state and federal regulations.
The Recreation Therapist also collaborates with the Recreation Therapy Manager and Director of Volunteers to supervise volunteers and residents, ensuring a safe, inclusive, and compliant activity program.
Job Specific Competencies:
  • Demonstrates strong coordination, leadership, and communication skills to effectively manage activities and share information with appropriate audiences.
  • Develops individualized care plans with clearly defined, measurable goals.
  • Completes initial and ongoing recreation and activity assessments for all residents.
  • Plans and facilitates engaging large and small group activities according to the monthly activity calendar.
  • Safely transports residents to and from all activity programs.
  • Participates as an active member of interdisciplinary care plan meetings.
  • Exhibits confidence and enthusiasm when leading group activities.
  • Works independently while remaining flexible and responsive to changing priorities.
  • Effectively prioritizes responsibilities to maximize resident engagement and benefit.
  • Maintains strict confidentiality of sensitive information related to residents, staff, and the health system.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
  • Availability to work rotating weekends and evening shifts.
  • Required: Energetic, creative, and motivated individuals who demonstrate leadership in a fast-paced healthcare environment.
  • Strong verbal, written, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
  • Preferred: Experience working with the geriatric population, including dementia care.
  • Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS), Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA), Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) with recreation experience, or equivalent credentials preferred.
  • Valid NYS driver's license and willingness to drive the resident transport bus.

Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Recreation Therapy, Therapeutic Recreation, or a related human services field preferred.
  • CNA experience considered a valuable asset.
  • Recent education or training in regulatory compliance and current industry best practices preferred; equivalent education will be considered.
  • Two to three years of experience working with seniors, with dementia care experience preferred.
  • Demonstrated proficiency with computers and electronic systems.

Pay Range: $21.00 - $29.00
Starting Pay: Based on experience
Thompson Health is an EOE encouraging individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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