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Recreation Program Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Recreation Program Director information

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$29.5K

$71.4K

$139K

How much do recreation program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for recreation program director in the United States is $71,372.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $91,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

More about Recreation Program Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Recreation Program Director jobs? Cities with the most Recreation Program Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Recreation Program jobs? The most popular types of Recreation Program jobs are:
What states have the most Recreation Program Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Recreation Program Director jobs include:

Recreation Program Assistant

Forsyth County, GA

Cumming, GA • On-site

$17.09/hr

Part-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Salary: $17.09 Hourly
Location : Cumming, GA
Job Type: Part-time No leave
Job Number: 03462
Department: PARKS & REC - SPECIALTY RECREATION
Opening Date: 05/19/2026
Closing Date: 6/19/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Position Information
This position will assist in teaching and facilitating program activities; maintain direct communication with Program Coordinator; assist the Team Leader in program planning, implementation and evaluation; and be responsible for safety, effectiveness, and quality of programs.
The Therapeutic Recreation Program Assistant supports the planning and facilitation of camps, classes, clinics, and events for the Therapeutic Recreation Division. This position assists with program setup and execution, helps oversee seasonal staff, and volunteers, , maintains facility and equipment inventories, and ensures activities are inclusive and safe. Program Assistants report to the Therapeutic Recreation Supervisor and work closely with Coordinators to support daily operations, uphold County policies, and deliver excellent service to participants.
Essential Functions
The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of the duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.
Ensures the safety of all program participants. Assists in gathering documents, equipment, and transportation related to assigned program. Maintains current certifications appropriate to program area. Determines instructor and participant skills ability and comfort with particular activity environment.
Maintain an in-depth understanding of all program activities. Has technical proficiency related to the conduct of program-relevant activities. Monitors individuals participating in division programs to ensure County equipment is used appropriately. Maintains and keeps all equipment organized.
Monitors inventory of division supplies and forms; ensures availability of adequate materials to conduct work activities; informs Coordinator of needed supplies. Administers first aid and reports injuries/accidents to Program Coordinator. Maintains rosters, attendance, health forms, injury reports and disciplinary records. Provides monthly reports (as needed) to the program coordinator on program evaluations, staff performance, and program performance. Completes program evaluations.
Communicates professionally with participants, the public, and other individuals as needed to coordinate work activities, exchange information or resolve problems.
This classification is designated as a safety sensitive position that is subject to random drug and alcohol testing and any other drug testing methods as stated in policies adopted by Forsyth County concerning drug and alcohol.
Provides assistance to other employees or departments as needed.
Performs other related duties as required.
Minimum Qualifications
Must be at least 18 years of age. Must possess and maintain valid First Aid/CPR certification or obtain within 6 months of hire. Requires completion of in-house training program and a valid certification related to the assigned program. Must have previous experience working with youth. Must successfully pass a criminal background check. Must possess and maintain a GA driver's license.
There are no benefits associated with this position.
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