Recreation Program Manager Jobs in Waterford, WI

Lake Lawn Resort is seeking an energetic, creative, and guest-focused Recreation Manager – Resort Activities & Guest Experiences to lead our Recreation department. This position oversees daily recreation operations, develops engaging activities and team-building programs, and creates memorable experiences for resort guests, families, conferences, and groups. The ideal candidate is an outgoing hospitality professional who enjoys working directly with guests, leading a team, and developing innovative recreation programs in a resort environment.

Position Details

• Job Title: Recreation Manager
• Employment Type: Full-Time
• Shift: Flexible / Days, Evenings, Weekends & Holidays as Needed
• Department: Recreation / Guest Activities
• Location: Delavan, Wisconsin

What You'll Do

• Lead the daily operations of the Recreation department and all resort activity programs.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate engaging resort activities, family programs, children's activities, and team-building experiences.
• Design customized recreation and team-building programs for conferences, corporate groups, weddings, and other resort events.
• Work directly with meeting planners to identify opportunities, upsell recreation services, and coordinate group activities.
• Plan and lead scheduled guest activities such as crafts, family games, outdoor recreation, and other resort programs.
• Supervise, train, coach, and develop Recreation team members through ongoing training and performance feedback.
• Recruit and interview seasonal and year-round Recreation staff while maintaining appropriate staffing levels.
• Create employee schedules based on occupancy, business volume, guest needs, and budget guidelines.
• Maintain high standards of guest service through direct interaction with resort guests and group planners.
• Ensure Recreation staff maintain proper uniforms, name tags, grooming, safety practices, and professional conduct.
• Monitor and oversee the safe and effective use of resort recreation facilities and equipment.
• Oversee recreation amenities including indoor and outdoor pools, miniature golf, playgrounds, baseball fields, volleyball and tennis courts, bicycles, ice skating, cross-country skiing, and the Activity Center.
• Ensure Recreation team members receive appropriate training in safety, chemical handling, accident prevention, and facility procedures.
• Maintain department equipment and recreation facilities in a clean, safe, and guest-ready condition.
• Oversee rental and payment processes for recreation programs, equipment, and activities.
• Maintain department cash-handling procedures, assigned bank, and financial controls.
• Develop and maintain recreation handouts, activity schedules, and guest-facing information.
• Ensure the Lake Lawn Resort website and other guest communication channels contain current Recreation information.
• Provide guests with knowledgeable information about resort activities, amenities, schedules, and facility locations.
• Partner with Sales, Conference Services, and Catering teams to coordinate recreation programs and group activities.
• Complete payroll, timekeeping, and other required employee documentation.
• Communicate regularly with the Director of Operations regarding department performance, staffing, programs, and operational needs.
• Conduct monthly Recreation department meetings.
• Participate in department head meetings and other resort meetings as required.
• Assist with Recreation Attendant responsibilities as needed.
• Serve as Manager on Duty (MOD) as assigned.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Director of Resort Operations.

What We're Looking For

• Previous Recreation Manager, Activities Manager, Guest Activities Manager, Resort Recreation, Hospitality, or Guest Experience leadership experience preferred.
• Experience creating and leading resort activities, family programs, children's activities, team-building events, or group recreation programs preferred.
• Strong leadership skills with experience hiring, training, scheduling, coaching, and supervising employees.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills.
• Creative approach to developing new activities and guest experiences.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple programs and priorities.
• Comfortable working directly with guests, meeting planners, conference groups, and resort leadership.
• Experience with cash handling, rentals, payroll, scheduling, and departmental administration.
• Basic computer skills required; experience maintaining website or digital activity information preferred.
• Strong understanding of safety practices and the ability to train staff on recreation and facility safety.
• Positive, energetic, professional, and service-oriented attitude.
• Ability to work flexible schedules including evenings, weekends, holidays, and peak resort periods.
• Ability to work outdoors and participate in activities in varying weather conditions.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, lift, and remain active for extended periods.
• Ability to demonstrate or participate in various recreational activities.
• Ability to lift and move recreation equipment and supplies.
• Ability to work around swimming pools and other waterfront or outdoor recreation areas.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and snow.
• Ability to assist guests and staff during activities or emergency situations.

Work Environment

• Dynamic resort recreation environment with frequent guest interaction.
• Combination of indoor and outdoor work throughout the resort property.
• Frequent interaction with children, families, conference groups, meeting planners, and resort guests.
• Fast-paced seasonal hospitality environment with increased activity during weekends, holidays, and peak resort periods.
• Work around pools, sports courts, playgrounds, activity areas, and other recreational facilities.

About Lake Lawn Resort

Located on Delavan Lake, Lake Lawn Resort is a premier hospitality destination known for exceptional service and a strong team culture. Whether you're starting your career or looking for a steady role, this is a great place to grow.

Disclaimer

This role includes a variety of responsibilities to support daily operations.