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Recreation Program Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Sertoma Star Services

Recreation Supervisor

Lansing, IL · On-site

$36K - $52K/yr

Supervise seasonal staff, part-time staff program assistants and intern program with various TR ... Manager in the development of cooperative grant opportunities through community and school ...

Palatine Park District

Preschool Staff

Palatine, IL · On-site

$18/hr

For more information, please contact Recreation Program Manager Natalie Wood at (847) 496-6333 or nwood@palatineparks.org. View the here If you are ready to take the next step in your career, come ...

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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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Recreation Program jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Recreation Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL? For Recreation Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Recreation Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Recreation Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Recreation Program Manager jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Recreation Program Manager job openings:
Recreation Program Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreation Program Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Coordinator for Campus Recreation

North Central College

Naperville, IL

$43K - $50K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Position Information
Posting Number S000953 Position Title Coordinator for Campus Recreation Department Office of Student Engagement & Belonging Division Student Affairs Supervisor Title Director of Student Engagement and Belonging Status Full Time Regular Salary Range $43,000 - $50,000 Position Summary
The Coordinator of Recreation supports the development, implementation, and daily operation of a comprehensive recreation and fitness program within the Office of Student Engagement and Belonging. This role provides North Central College students, staff, and faculty with opportunities to participate in fitness and recreation programs, outdoor adventure activities, intramural and club sports.

Reporting to the Director of Student Engagement and Belonging, the Coordinator contributes to a portfolio that advances student engagement, belonging, and wellbeing. This position plays a key role in program coordination, student staff supervision, and event execution while supporting divisional priorities established by the Assistant Dean of Students for Student Engagement and Transition Initiatives.
Description of Key Responsibilities
  • Coordinate and implement recreation programs including intramurals, club sports, fitness programs, outdoor adventure activities, and informal recreation opportunities that support student engagement and wellbeing.
  • Assist in the implementation and organization of Intramural and Club Sports programs, including scheduling, registration, event management, and communication with participants and student leaders.
  • Assist with the coordination of fitness programming, including group fitness classes, wellness initiatives, and fitness center operations.
  • Enforce college and departmental policies, including risk management and safety procedures, for all recreation and fitness activities.
  • Assist with hiring processes for student staff and support ongoing training and development opportunities aligned with the student engagement and leadership framework.
  • Maintain accurate records related to participation, scheduling, equipment usage, incidents, and program assessment to inform continuous improvement and reporting needs.
  • Support the development and distribution of marketing and promotional materials, including social media and digital communications, to enhance visibility and participation in recreation programs.
  • Collaborate with campus partners to support large-scale programs such as orientation, Homecoming, and weekend engagement initiatives.
  • Provide input on facility needs and assist in maintaining safe, clean, and functional recreation spaces.
  • Support recreation and fitness programming in alignment with divisional programming goals.
  • Perform other duties as assigned, including responsibilities that support departmental priorities, student engagement initiatives, and the overall student experience.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Working knowledge of recreation, intramural sports, club sports, and fitness programming within a collegiate or student engagement context.
  • Ability to coordinate and implement programs that support student engagement, belonging, and development.
  • Experience or familiarity with outdoor adventure programming and/or fitness instruction is preferred.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to support programs and events.
  • Demonstrated ability to supervise, train, and support student staff while fostering leadership development.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks, schedules, and priorities simultaneously.
  • Effective interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Ability to work collaboratively within a team-oriented environment and build relationships across departments.
  • Basic marketing and promotional skills, including familiarity with social media and digital communication tools.
  • Knowledge of risk management, safety procedures, and best practices in recreation and wellness programs.
  • Ability to assist with equipment management, including inventory, maintenance, and storage.

Distinguishing Characteristics
The Coordinator of Recreation is responsible for the coordination and day-to-day implementation of recreation and fitness programs within a broader student engagement framework. This role emphasizes program delivery, student development, and operational effectiveness, while supporting the strategic direction set by the Director of Engagement and Belonging and the Assistant Dean of Students for Student Engagement and Transition Initiatives.

The individual must be highly organized, student-centered, and collaborative, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. This position works closely with student leaders, club officers, and campus partners to ensure programs are inclusive, accessible, and aligned with institutional goals related to student engagement and belonging.

Strong communication, organization, and interpersonal skills are essential, along with the ability to foster inclusive participation and positive student experiences. The duties of this position require evening and weekend work, including attendance at a variety of events.
Education/Training
A bachelor's degree is required. Master's degree preferred.
Experience
1-3 years of experience in recreation, wellness, intramural sports, or related areas (graduate assistant experience may be considered).
Licenses or Certifications
Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record required.
CPR, First Aid, and AED certification required (or ability to obtain within a specified timeframe).
Additional certifications in fitness instruction or outdoor recreation are preferred.
Is This a Temporary Position? No Employment Conditions
An offer of employment is contingent upon successful completion of the College's background screening process.
Number of Vacancies 1
Posting Detail Information
EEO Statement
North Central College is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to increasing the diversity of our workforce. NCC provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities where appropriate. If you need reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, please notify the Office of Human Resources. Determinations for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.
Close Date Open Until Filled Yes Additional Information
The pay offered to the selected candidate will be determined based on factors including (but not limited to) the candidate's experience, qualifications, and training.
North Central College provides a comprehensive benefits package, which includes:
  • All-inclusive medical, dental and vision group insurance
  • Health and dependent care savings plans
  • Employer-paid life and AD&D insurance
  • 403(b) retirement plan with employer contributions
  • Employee assistance plan resources
  • Tuition waiver for full-time employees, spouse and dependent children
  • Generous paid time off plans, including 3 weeks vacation to start
  • 15 paid holidays per year, including 5 days during NCC Winter Break
  • Free access to campus health center, fitness and athletic facilities, and library
  • Employee discount program

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