ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Recreation Program Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Avon

Recreation Program Coordinator

Avon, CO

... director certification for State of Colorado childcare licensure. 8. Monitors and maintains ... Updates program information and communicates with Recreation Services Supervisor to ensure accurate ...

New York State

Recreation Program Leader 1

Rome, NY

$53K - $68K/yr

This would include developing and directing a comprehensive recreational program of athletic and non-athletic activities; assessing the interests of the inmates; developing procedures for and ...

StateJobsNY

Recreation Program Leader 1

Rome, NY · On-site

$53K - $68K/yr

This would include developing and directing a comprehensive recreational program of athletic and non-athletic activities; assessing the interests of the inmates; developing procedures for and ...

Floyd County

Parks Program Director

New Albany, IN

$50K/yr

The Program Director for the Floyd County Parks and Recreation Department is responsible for supervising and directing assigned staff and organizing and promoting recreation programs within the ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsRecreation Program JobsRecreation Program Director Jobs

Recreation Program Director information

See salary details

$29.5K

$71.4K

$139K

How much do recreation program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 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 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.
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:
What job categories do people searching Recreation Program Director jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Recreation Program Director jobs are:
Recreation Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreation Program Director job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,372 per year, or $34.3 per hour.

Recreation-PT Recreation Program Assistant

The City of Watertown

Watertown, WI • On-site

$19.39/hr

Part-time

Posted yesterday

Job description

Part Time Recreation Program Assistant- Parks, Recreation & Forestry Department
City of Watertown has an opening for a Part Time Recreation Program Assistant to help the City of Watertown Recreation team!
The Part-Time Recreation Program Assistant supports the planning, promotion, implementation, and supervision of selected recreational programs for the City of Watertown. This position works under the guidance of the full-time Recreation Program Manager or Director of Parks, Recreation, and Forestry to ensure successful delivery of recreation programs, with a focus on program coordination, staff supervision, and community engagement. For full list of responsibilities see the attached job description.
Candidates will assist in supervising part-time, seasonal, and volunteer personnel, providing training support and guidance for program staff and ensuring staff follow safety and operational procedures during programs.
This position will be responsible for maintaining basic records for attendance, revenue, and program participation in addition to supporting payroll processing and setting up facilities and equipment for recreational programs.
Starting compensation is $19.39
This is a part time, long term, partially benefited position. Hours that vary to include nights and weekends as department programs require estimated to be between 20-25 hours per week.
We appreciate all interest in this position; however, only applicants who meet the required qualifications will move forward in the hiring process.
Online applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Questions can be sent to .
Equal Opportunity Employer Employment based on Pre-Employment Drug & Alcohol Testing

Apply