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Recreation Program Leader Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Under general direction of the Activities Recreation Program Leader and according to departmental procedures, assists in the planning, developing and implementing recreation therapy groups that are ...

RECREATION SPECIALIST

Baldwin, MI ยท On-site

$26.27/hr

... the industry's global leader in evidenced based rehabilitation. Who We Are: GEO provides ... program for all detainees. Oversees the recreation facilities and equipment. Primary Duties and ...

... the industry's global leader in evidenced based rehabilitation. Who We Are: GEO provides ... program for all detainees. Oversees the recreation facilities and equipment. Primary Duties and ...

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Recreation Program Leader information

See Michigan salary details

$7

$19

$29

How much do recreation program leader jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreation program leader in Michigan is $19.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $22.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,658 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Therapeutic Recreation Program Leader (Variable Hour)

Canton, MI โ€ข On-site

$16.80/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

The following at-will job posting will remain open until filled.THERAPEUTIC RECREATION PROGRAM LEADER Variable HourPay Rate: $16.80 per hour REQUIRED AVAILABILITY:Tuesday–Thursday, 8:00am–4:00pmShifts varyJOB DESCRIPTIONDESCRIPTION OF DUTIES:This position is responsible for leading and supervising activities for special needs populations and Parks, Recreation and Community Services programs.EXAMPLES OF WORK: (Note: These examples are intended merely as illustrations of the various types of work performed.) Supervises and monitors Therapeutic Recreation participants engaging in registered TR experiences and Community Development programming at a variety of recreation areas and facilities.Assists in the planning, supervision and coordination of participants and activities.Responsible for safe transportation of program participants to assigned locations in Township vehicles and chartered buses.Assists in coordination of setup, teardown, and cleanup of programs and events.Greets and interacts with participants, families and community members in a positive and friendly manner and provides excellent customer service.Ensures safety rules, policies, regulations and procedures are followed by programResponsible for enforcement of departmental rules and regulations, operating procedures and policies.Responsible for facilities and equipment appearance and cleanliness, including detection of and reporting of property and equipment defects.Attends all staff meetings and trainings as required.Assumes lead worker responsibilities for events and activities as assigned.Assists with responding to, communicating and documenting emergency situations and incidents, including, but not limited to, First Aid, CPR, Severe Weather, and Missing Child events.Responsible for efficient and effective day-to-day operations.Prepares equipment and supplies for planned daily programs and events.Maintains accurate reports, including, but not limited to, accident and incident reports.Performs other duties as assigned.ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS - KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:Minimum age of 18 years old.Must possess a current, valid Driver's License with a driving history that does not create liability concerns, which include, but are not limited to, convictions for reckless driving, careless driving, suspended license or convictions involving drinking and impaired driving.Ability to operate a 12-passenger van equipped with a wheelchair lift, with the ability to tow a trailer behind the van as necessary.Must be able to possess a valid Michigan Chauffer License within 30 days of hire.Must obtain CPR/AED and first aid certification within 30 days of employment. CPR/AED and first aid classes are free to Township employees. Certification through an organization approved by Michigan's Bureau of Community and Health Systems, Child Care Licensing division, may also be accepted.Must obtain Nonviolent Crisis Intervention (CPI) certification within 90 days of employment. CPI certification is free to Township employees.Prior experience working or volunteering with special needs populations preferred.Ability to respond to emergencies in a calm and efficient manner.Ability to clearly communicate procedures, problems and policies with fellow employees and the public tactfully and courteously.Skill in organizing self and others; ability to self-start in discharging responsibilities.Knowledge of the facilities, equipment and supplies required by the assigned area.Ability to work a variety of shifts, including afternoons, evenings, weekends and holidays.Ability to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions for long periods of time.This is an "At-Will" position. Work assignments and hours are scheduled based on availability, division requirements and within the confines of the budget. Schedules and work hours are not guaranteed and are subject to change at any time due to division needs, budgeting and staff availability.PHYSICAL DEMANDS:Reasonable Accommodations: Canton Township provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please contact the ADA Coordinator at (734) 394-5260. We encourage all interested qualified applicants to apply for open positions. Request for accommodations will be reviewed case-by-case.Stand - FrequentlyWalk - FrequentlySit - FrequentlyUse of Hands/Fingers - FrequentlyReach - FrequentlyClimb - OccasionallyCrawl - OccasionallySquat/Kneel - FrequentlyBend - FrequentlyLift/CarryLess than 10 lbs - Frequently 10-29 lbs - Frequently 30-59 lbs - Occasionally60-100 lbs - RarelyPush/PullLess than 10 lbs - Frequently 10-29 lbs - Frequently30-59 lbs - Occasionally60-100 lbs - Rarely Reports To: Therapeutic Recreation Program AdministratorJob Description Updated: September 2025Posting Information: Therapeutic Recreation Program Leader (Variable Hour)This is an at-will position. Hours are limited and will vary based on the operational needs of the department. Employees in this position will be classified as variable-hour employees.All candidates will be notified VIA EMAIL of the disposition of the employment application.Being hired to fill a vacant position will require reference checking, background information, driving record verification, working history verification, physical exam, drug screen, and new hire orientation.Must meet the minimum requirements for the position to be considered.This is an external posting open to all applicants. A completed application must be submitted to be considered for this position. Applications not completed in their entirety will not be considered. Create an account to apply online or pick up a paper application in the Human Resources Department.The Charter Township of Canton provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) and is committed to a workplace free of discrimination and harassment based on race, color, religion, age, gender, sex, pregnancy, national origin, disability, height, weight, gender identity, marital status, military status, sexual orientation, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law. Canton Township takes great pride in the diversity of our community and promotes diversity in the workforce.
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