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Recreation Program Leader Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

... Program • 401(k) • Pet Insurance • Dental Insurance • Paid Training • Flexible Spending ... the industry's global leader in evidenced based rehabilitation. Who We Are: GEO provides ...

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Activities Therapist

Pontiac, MI · On-site

$47K - $48K/yr

Under the direction of the Activities & Recreation Program Leader, you'll help plan and run group activities for participants in the PACE program. These activities are designed to support people ...

Recreation Aide

Warren, MI · On-site

$16.10 - $20.10/hr

Leads programs such as music, crafts, recreation, exercise, religious service, and other group programs as assigned/scheduled, and ensures group participation records are completed timely and ...

Recreation Aide

Warren, MI · On-site

$16.10 - $20.10/hr

Leads programs such as music, crafts, recreation, exercise, religious service, and other group programs as assigned/scheduled, and ensures group participation records are completed timely and ...

Administers a well-rounded program of diversified activities in the assigned recreation component ... Assists with and trains student leaders according to Center policy. * Performs other duties as ...

Administers a well-rounded program of diversified activities in the assigned recreation component ... Assists with and trains student leaders according to Center policy.Performs other duties as ...

Administers a well-rounded program of diversified activities in the assigned recreation component ... Assists with and trains student leaders according to Center policy. * Performs other duties as ...

Showing results 21-40

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.

RECREATION SPECIALIST

Baldwin, MI • On-site

$26.27/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


The GEO Group rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 43 rated prisons


Job description

Benefits Information
Full-time employees will enjoy a competitive benefits package with options for you and your family including:
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays
• 401(k) Matching
• Health Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Health Savings Account
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Discount
• Reduced Tuition Rates
• Disability Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• 401(k)
• Pet Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Paid Training
• Flexible Spending Account
The compensation and benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. The Company reserves the right to modify this information at any time, with or without notice, subject to applicable law.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Overview
Are you looking for a career you can feel good about? We hire only those that strive to do their best. By joining our family, you'll receive the honor and recognition that comes with working for the industry's global leader in evidenced based rehabilitation.
Who We Are:
GEO provides complementary, turnkey solutions for numerous government partners worldwide across a spectrum of diversified correctional and community reentry services. From the development of state-of-the-art facilities and the provision of management services and evidence-based rehabilitation to the post-release reintegration and supervision of individuals in the community, GEO offers fully diversified, cost-effective services that deliver enhanced quality and improved outcomes.
Why Work for GEO:
  • We believe that work is more than a place you go to every day. It is about being inspired and motivated to achieve extraordinary things.
  • Employee benefits play an important role in making The GEO Group a great place to work. At GEO, we believe in the three pillars of employee wellbeing: physical, emotional, and financial. With comprehensive benefits and competitive wages, we trust that you will find all the resources you need here to be successful.

Responsibilities
Summary:
The Recreation Specialist is responsible for the implementation and operation of a viable recreation program for all detainees. Oversees the recreation facilities and equipment.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
  • The Recreation Specialist plans and organizes recreation activities.
  • Coaches all athletic teams.
  • The Recreation Specialist organizes and conducts all competitions and tournaments.
  • Explains and demonstrates to detainees the proper technique and use of all recreational equipment, including the enforcement of safety rules and regulations.
  • The Recreation Specialist inspects recreation area for cleanliness and safety.
  • Conducts weekly safety training sessions with recreation orderlies and clerks.
  • The Recreation Specialist checks all detainees in and out of the gym.
  • Maintains recreation department records.
  • The Recreation Specialist orders, maintains, and schedules the repair of all recreation department equipment.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
  • High school diploma or GED certification required.
  • Additional education in Physical Education, recreational therapy, or related field are highly desirable.
  • Prior experience working with a prisoner population or in a physical education program is highly desirable.
  • Must be at least twenty-one (21) years of age or older.

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