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Recreation Program Leader Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

Join Our Team as a Program Leader - W.E.S.O.A.R! & Adventurers at Between Friends!Do you love ... This role combines recreation, community engagement, mentorship, and support. One day you may be ...

Intramural Lead

Calgary, AB ยท On-site

CA$15.45 - CA$19.44/hr

Reporting to the Recreational Sports Supervisor, the Intramural Student Leader is a student casual ... Discount on most CAR Programs and Services Complimentary towel and equipment rentals 40% MRU ...

Program Administrator

Calgary, AB ยท On-site

$50K - $58K/yr

Our mission is to provide services that foster inclusion, independence, and recreation for ... Provide administrative and reporting support to program leadership and collaborate with internal ...

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Recreation Program Leader information

What is a recreation program leader?

Recreation Program Leaders are professionals who organize, lead, and coordinate recreational activities and programs for groups of people, such as children, teens, adults, or seniors. They work in settings like community centers, parks, camps, or schools, and are responsible for planning events, supervising participants, and ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment. Their goal is to promote healthy lifestyles, teamwork, and community engagement through various recreational activities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a recreation program leader?

To thrive as a Recreation Program Leader, you need a background in recreation management or a related field, experience in activity planning, and often CPR/first aid certification. Familiarity with scheduling software, budgeting tools, and safety management systems is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills help you engage participants and coordinate with staff and volunteers effectively. These abilities ensure safe, enjoyable programs that meet community needs and foster positive experiences for all participants.

What are some common challenges faced by recreation program leaders, and how can they be effectively managed?

Recreation Program Leaders often encounter challenges such as balancing the diverse interests and abilities of participants, managing unexpected changes in schedules or resources, and ensuring a safe, inclusive environment for all. Effective management of these challenges involves strong communication skills, adaptability, and creative problem-solving. Proactive planning, regular feedback from participants, and close collaboration with other staff members also contribute to creating successful and enjoyable programs.

What is the difference between Recreation Program Leader vs Recreation Coordinator?

AspectRecreation Program LeaderRecreation Coordinator
CredentialsCPR certification, sometimes relevant certifications in recreation or sportsCPR certification, relevant certifications in recreation or sports
Work EnvironmentCommunity centers, parks, recreational facilitiesCommunity centers, parks, recreational facilities
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipalities, non-profits, private recreation providersMunicipalities, non-profits, private recreation providers
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Recreation Program Leader and a Recreation Coordinator lies in their roles. Recreation Program Leaders typically focus on leading specific activities and supervising participants, while Recreation Coordinators often handle planning, organizing, and overseeing multiple programs. Both roles require similar certifications and are employed in similar environments, making them closely related but distinct in scope and responsibilities.

Infographic showing various Recreation Program Leader job openings in Alberta as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Program Leader Calgary

Calgary, AB โ€ข On-site

Part-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Join Our Team as a Program Leader - W.E.S.O.A.R! & Adventurers at Between Friends!Do you love creating memorable experiences, building meaningful connections, and helping people discover new adventures? Are you someone who enjoys being active in the community, leading exciting activities, and making a difference in people's lives?If so, we have the perfect opportunity for you.Between Friends is looking for enthusiastic, compassionate, and energetic Program Leaders to support our W.E.S.O.A.R! and Adventurers programs. Whether you're facilitating a community outing, cheering someone on at a bowling lane, exploring Banff for the weekend, or helping participants build confidence and independence, you'll play an important role in creating experiences that foster connection, belonging, and fun.Who We AreAt Between Friends, we're all about creating connections, embracing diversity, and celebrating every individual. We create opportunities for our members to connect, grow, and belong through inclusive social, recreational, and developmental experiences.From community outings and overnight adventures to karaoke nights and weekend getaways, our programs help people build friendships, gain confidence, and experience the joy of belonging. We believe everyone deserves opportunities to participate, explore, and thrive, and we're passionate about breaking down barriers so that everyone feels welcomed, valued, and included.If you're looking for meaningful work where every day brings new experiences and opportunities to make an impact, you'll fit right in with us.The RoleAs a Program Leader, you'll help bring our programs to life by creating safe, engaging, and inclusive experiences for participants. You'll work directly with our members, supporting them as they participate in community activities, social events, recreational programs, and travel experiences throughout Alberta.This role combines recreation, community engagement, mentorship, and support. One day you may be leading a group at a festival, and the next you could be helping participants navigate a weekend trip to Edmonton or exploring the mountains in Kananaskis.Working alongside fellow Program Leaders and volunteers, you'll help create meaningful experiences that promote independence, build confidence, and strengthen friendships.Training is provided for all aspects of the role, including personal care, mobility assistance, and medication administration.Our ProgramsW.E.S.O.A.R! (Weekend, Evening, Social Opportunities, Activities & Recreation)W.E.S.O.A.R! programs take place throughout Calgary and offer participants opportunities to connect, socialize, and enjoy a variety of community-based activities. Programs may include: Movies and entertainment Swimming and recreation Bowling and games Music and arts Community events and attractions Seasonal activities and special events As a Program Leader, you'll help facilitate inclusive and engaging experiences while ensuring participants feel safe, supported, and empowered.AdventurersAdventurers provides exciting day trips and overnight travel experiences across Alberta. Destinations may include: Banff and Kananaskis Drumheller Edmonton Red Deer Sylvan Lake Festivals, sporting events, concerts, and attractions These trips provide participants with opportunities to explore new places, build independence, and create lasting memories.As a Program Leader, you'll support all aspects of the travel experience, including transportation, accommodations, meals, activities, participant support, and trip coordination.What You'll Do Create Meaningful Experiences: Facilitate engaging programs that encourage friendship, participation, personal growth, and fun. You'll help participants build confidence while creating memories they'll talk about for years. Support Participant Success: Provide individualized support based on participant needs, including communication support, personal care, medication administration, mobility assistance, and encouragement throughout activities. Promote Inclusion and Belonging: Help create welcoming environments where everyone feels valued, respected, and included regardless of ability. Lead with Confidence : Work collaboratively with Program Leaders and volunteers to ensure programs run smoothly while maintaining participant safety and well-being. Be Part of the Adventure : Support local outings, day trips, and overnight travel experiences by coordinating activities, managing schedules, and helping participants fully enjoy every opportunity. Keep Safety: First Monitor participant well-being, respond appropriately to challenges, and follow all organizational policies, procedures, and safety practices. You're Our Ideal Candidate If You... Love Working with People Bring Energy and Enthusiasm Stay Calm and Adaptable Believe Everyone Belong Enjoy Working as Part of a Team Take Initiative and Lead by Example Schedule & CommitmentProgram Commitment Commitment to at least one program session (Winter, Spring, Summer, or Fall) Opportunities to work multiple sessions and programs for additional hours Mandatory training before each session Program Leader meetings once per session Additional paid administrative or planning hours may be required W.E.S.O.A.R! Programs Approximately 3-5 hours per week Scheduled Tuesday through Sunday Evening and afternoon programming Adventurers Trips Day trips: 4-8 hours Two-day overnight trips: 25-35 hours Three-day overnight trips: 35-45 hours Scheduled weekdays and weekends depending on the season and trip schedule What You'll NeedRequired Qualifications Must be at least 18 years of age Current Standard First Aid and CPR Level C certification Personal cell phone available during program hours Ability to support participants with: Personal care, Medication administration, Lifts and transfers ,Mobility support Successful candidates must provide two professional references and successfully complete an Enhanced Canadian Criminal Record Check. Assets Experience working with individuals with disabilities Experience leading recreational, community, or youth programs Experience supporting individuals in community settings Experience managing challenging situations within a team environment One year of disability support experience is considered an asset Why You'll Love Working with Us Meaningful Work : Every shift provides an opportunity to make a genuine difference in someone's life. Fun and Adventure : From local community outings to overnight travel experiences, no two days are the same. Incredible Team: Work alongside passionate, supportive colleagues who care deeply about inclusion and community. Training and Growth: Develop valuable leadership, recreation, support, communication, and community engagement skills while receiving ongoing training and support. If you're ready to create unforgettable experiences, build meaningful relationships, and help make inclusion a reality every day, we'd love to hear from you.Apply today and start your next adventure with Between FriendsPosting Close DateThis position will remain open until a suitable candidate is selected. We thank all applicants for their interest in Between Friends; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted Privacy and Hiring Process: We may use artificial intelligence (AI)-based tools to assist with parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications or resumes. These tools support, but do not replace human judgment, and all final hiring decisions are made by people. Personal information is collected, used, and disclosed in accordance with Alberta's Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA). For more information, please contact us.