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Recreation Program Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Coordinates and communicates with not only the direct recipient of the program, but also third ... SPECIFIC FUNCTIONS RECREATION PROGRAMS SERVICE AREA: * Oversee tennis pro shop including managing ...

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Program Coordinator, Graphic Designer, Program Tech Support, Recreation Coordinator, Grove Hall ... The Program Director works closely with the Program Chair and the Program Committee to ensure ...

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Program Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$72K/yr

JOB SUMMARY The Program Director will work with a team to provide coordination of services in the areas of recreation, education, community networking, and program marketing. This individual is ...

Program Director

Winter Park, CO · On-site

$70K - $83K/yr

Lead year-round recreation, adventure, and guest programs in the Rockies while inspiring teams and ... The Program Director oversees the planning, development, and administration of year-round programs ...

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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 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:
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 Program Supervisor - Part-time

Recreation Program Supervisor - Part-time

City of Danville, VA

Danville, VA

Part-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Description

Performs intermediate paraprofessional and administrative work in planning, coordination, promotion, implementation and supervision of a variety of recreation programs and/or activities to include parks, playgrounds, recreation centers, and camp programs.

The essential functions of the job are not limited to those listed in the job description. The City retains the discretion to add to or change the duties of the position at any time.

  • Coordinates, develops, plans and supervises a variety of recreation programs and facilities, evaluates recreational activities, programs and special events; Distributes supplies and equipment and maintains inventory.
  • Prepares publicity information and material; Prepares a variety of reports, evaluations, work schedules and assignments; Completes accident reports; Submits requests for maintenance service, materials and equipment; Reports to Program Coordinator.
  • Assists in promotion of service area programs; Assists with division/department Special Events as requested; Works at sites other than primary location as needed and scheduled by supervisor.
  • Conducts/instructs activities as requested and scheduled; Recruits volunteers and works with community groups; Registers participants and collects fees.

ADDITIONAL DUTIES
  • Performs wide variety of support duties, as assigned by Program Coordinator.
  • Drives departmental vehicle as needed to transport supplies, equipment and participants.
  • Performs additional duties to support operational requirements as assigned.

Education and Experience
Post-secondary study or training: e.g. community college, vocational, business, technical school and one to two years' related experience.
An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered in lieu of the specific requirements listed above
Certifications/ Licenses

  • Valid driver's license and an acceptable driving record according to City criteria

Job Knowledge
Intermediate knowledge to perform most work in normal situations. Comprehension of standard situations and includes knowledge of most of the significant aspects of the subject.
Reading
Intermediate: Ability to read papers, periodicals, journals, manuals, dictionaries, thesauruses, and reference materials.
Writing
Intermediate: Ability to write reports, prepare business letters, marketing materials, and summaries with proper format, punctuation, spelling, and grammar, using all parts of speech.
Math
Intermediate: Ability to deal with a system of real numbers; and practical application of fractions, percentages, ratios/proportions and measurement.
Communication Skills
Decisions regarding interpretation of existing policies may be made. Contacts may involve stressful, negative interactions requiring high levels of tact and the ability to respond to aggressive interpersonal interactions. Elements of persuasion may be necessary to gain cooperation and acceptance of ideas.
Independence and Decision-Making
Normally performs the job by following established standard operating procedures and/or policies. There is a choice of the appropriate procedure or policy to apply to duties. Performance reviewed periodically.
Technical Skills
Comprehensive, practical knowledge of a technical field with use of analytical judgment and decision-making abilities appropriate to the work environment of the organization.
Fiscal Responsibilities
No budgetary/fiscal responsibility.
Supervisory Responsibilities
Performs essentially the same work as those directed. Includes oversight of quality, training, instructing and scheduling work.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

  • Work includes medium physical exertion, lifting 20-50 lbs. occasionally, 10-25 lbs. frequently, or up to 10 lbs. constantly, requiring moving between office equipment and occasional light physical exertion.
  • Adequate vision, hearing and talking to use a computer, telephone and communicate effectively with others.

NON-PHYSICAL DEMANDS
  • May frequently experience multitasking and working closely with others as a part of a team. and a noisy or distracting environment.
  • May occasionally have time pressures, irregular work schedules including work on weekends, evenings, and holidays, frequent change of tasks, tedious or exacting work.
  • Responsible for appropriate use and maintenance of City equipment, tools and other resources, including work time.
  • Regular and predictable attendance is expected.

MACHINES, TOOLS, EQUIPMENT, SOFTWARE, AND HARDWARE :
Typically requires use of standard office equipment to included telephone, computer, Microsoft Office, job specific software and related hardware.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work is normally performed in an office setting and within a recreation or neighborhood center. The employee may rarely be to hazardous factors and may be expected to wear eye/face protection. Other protective equipment as apparent or assigned may be required depending on assigned tasks.