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Recreation Program Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

PT Recreation Assistant Lead

Marion, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

Job Summary The Recreation Assistant Lead supports the coordination, supervision, and ... with program set-up, tear-down, and equipment management. * Communicate effectively with ...

Under the supervision of the Program Manager, works with the Recreation Assistants in providing recreational services and Activities of Daily Living (ADL) assistance to participants attending the ...

Under the supervision of the Program Manager, works with the Recreation Assistants in providing recreational services and Activities of Daily Living (ADL) assistance to participants attending the ...

Outdoor Recreation Assistant

Grinnell, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $17/hr

... management of the outdoor equipment rental program, and supporting student trip leaders with ... recreation or emergency preparedness. * 6 months or less of work experience. * Ability to drive ...

Community Recreation

Waverly, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Community Recreation Program Assistant Function of Position: Oversee recreational programming for ... Community Recreation Manager Function of Position: Oversee all activity for community rec youth ...

... program. Therapist will provide individual assessment, develop goals and objectives, document ... management or coping skills, social skills, leisure skill building, community reintegration, and ...

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Recreation Program Manager information

What are some common challenges faced by recreation program managers in coordinating community events?

Recreation Program Managers often encounter challenges such as balancing limited resources with diverse community needs, managing logistics for multiple simultaneous events, and ensuring strong participation. They must also address safety concerns, adapt to changing weather or facility issues, and communicate effectively with staff, volunteers, and participants. Successfully overcoming these challenges involves strong organizational skills, creative problem-solving, and the ability to build collaborative relationships within the community and with partner organizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a recreation program manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Recreation Program Manager, you need a background in recreation management, program planning, and budgeting, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree or certification such as CPR/First Aid. Familiarity with scheduling software, facility management systems, and registration platforms is typically required. Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills help in coordinating staff, engaging participants, and fostering community involvement. These skills ensure smooth program operations, safety, and high participation, which are vital for successful recreational offerings.

What does a recreation program manager do?

A Recreation Program Manager is responsible for planning, organizing, and overseeing recreational programs and activities for a community, organization, or facility. They develop schedules, coordinate staff and volunteers, manage budgets, and ensure that programs meet the needs and interests of participants. Additionally, they often assess program effectiveness and make improvements, as well as ensure safety protocols and compliance with regulations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Recreation Program jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Recreation Program jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Recreation Program Manager jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Recreation Program Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Recreation Program Manager job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Recreation Program Coordinator - Playgrounds (Temporary 2026 Term)

City of Dubuque, IA

Dubuque, IA • On-site

$23.04/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Salary: $23.04 Hourly
Location : Leisure Services Department, City of Dubuque, IA
Job Type: Temporary
Job Number: 596034001-TEMP-062026
Department: Recreation
Opening Date: 06/14/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
FLSA: Exempt
Bargaining Unit: NREP
Position Summary
GENERAL SUMMARY: Under direction of the Recreation Supervisor, the Playground Coordinator will conduct recreation activities with groups; organize and promote activities, such as arts and crafts, sports, games, music, dramatics, social recreation, and hobbies, taking into account the needs and interests of individual members; lead all operations of the summer Playground Explorations throughout the parks; and perform other duties as assigned.
Job Duties
JOB DUTIES:
  • Supervise service workers.
  • Assign duties or work schedules to employees.
  • Arrange schedules.
  • Train service staff.
  • Organize program supplies; and recreational activities or special events
  • Distribute program supplies, payroll time cards and registration materials to staff.
  • Create and/or update registration materials and lesson plans.
  • Communicate with management and other staff to resolve problems.
  • Lead pre-season and weekly meetings.
  • Collect payroll time cards.
  • Implement lesson plans for playground programs.
  • Track daily participant attendance
  • Record daily participant attendance.
  • Establish and maintain relationships with children in the parks.
  • Prepare incident reports in accordance with established timelines; and operational reports or records.
  • Write and submit accident and discipline reports for corrective actions to supervisor.
  • Seek guidance from supervisor for unusual circumstances for which there has been no previous direction.
  • Maintain employee files and records; and manual and electronic activities files and records.
  • Evaluate program improvements and employee performance.
  • Develop program improvements; and plans for programs or services.
  • Oversee program staff and operations, services, and program and process implementation.
  • Research topics and trends to remain knowledgeable and make recommendations.
  • Respond to inquiries from City staff, School District and community personnel, parents and students.
  • Provide information and/or direction regarding recreation programs.
  • Enforce rules or regulations.
  • Promote products, services, or programs.
  • Administer first aid.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Customer and Personal Service - Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services including customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
  • Education and Training - Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.

Qualifications
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Must be at least 21 years of age.
  • Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, Publisher) experience.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Knowledge and background in education and/or recreation programming.
  • Organizational and leadership experience.

Supplemental Information
SUPERVISORY STATUS: Functional
FLSA STATUS: Non-exempt
Our Commitment to You
The City of Dubuque is committed to using a merit-based system in which recruiting, selecting, and advancing employees is based on their relative knowledge, skills, and abilities, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws. Our organization provides equal opportunities for all individuals, fostering a workplace that values innovation, collaboration, and work-life balance. We offer job stability, a comprehensive benefits package, and an opportunity to serve and support our growing community. In accordance with legal obligations our policies and practices are designed to ensure fair treatment and foster a respectful workplace where all are encouraged to apply.

Not Applicable
01
Do you acknowledge that this position is a temporary, limited-term appointment expected to end in 2026, with no guarantee of continued employment beyond that date?
  • Yes
  • No

02
I am at least twenty-one (21) years of age.
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question