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Recreation Program Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Resolves program issues within established guidelines; suggest program improvements. Performs ... Maintains recreational facilities, storage sites, and other work areas in a clean and orderly ...

Recreation Specialist

Calabasas, CA · On-site

$23 - $27/hr

Under general supervision, organizes and conducts specialized recreation programs for the community and provides highly responsible and technical staff assistance for the Community Services ...

Recreation Leader

Westminster, CA · On-site

$16.93 - $21.61/hr

Resolves program issues within established guidelines; suggest program improvements. * Performs ... Maintains recreational facilities, storage sites, and other work areas in a clean and orderly ...

Recreation Coordinator

Calistoga, CA · On-site

$31.57 - $38.01/hr

This position is responsible for coordinating recreation programs, supervising part-time staff and volunteers, supporting community events, and helping ensure our programs are safe, engaging, and ...

$22/hr

Performs a variety of duties in support of the Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) Community Recreation program that may include special events, recreation information/resources, command events ...

Showing results 41-60

Recreation Program information

What are recreation programs?

Recreation programs are organized activities and services designed to provide leisure, entertainment, and physical activity opportunities for individuals and communities. They can include sports leagues, arts and crafts classes, fitness sessions, outdoor adventures, and cultural events. These programs are often offered by community centers, parks and recreation departments, schools, and nonprofit organizations to promote health, social interaction, and overall well-being.

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

To thrive as a Recreation Program Coordinator, you need knowledge of program planning, event management, and a background in recreation, leisure studies, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with scheduling software, budget tracking tools, and safety regulations is typically required. Strong organizational skills, creativity, and effective communication are vital soft skills for engaging participants and leading teams. These skills ensure successful, safe, and engaging programs that meet community needs and organizational goals.

What are some common challenges faced by recreation program coordinators, and how can they address them?

Recreation Program Coordinators often encounter challenges such as balancing diverse participant needs, managing limited budgets, and ensuring program safety and inclusivity. To address these, coordinators typically engage in proactive communication with participants, collaborate closely with team members, and creatively utilize available resources. Staying organized and adaptable is key, as is seeking feedback to continuously improve program offerings and foster an engaging, supportive environment.

What is the difference between Recreation Program vs Recreation Coordinator?

AspectRecreation ProgramRecreation Coordinator
CredentialsCPR certification, sometimes a degree in recreation or leisure studiesCPR certification, degree in recreation, leisure studies, or related field
Work EnvironmentCommunity centers, parks, schools, recreational facilitiesCommunity centers, parks, sports leagues, event planning settings
Employer & Industry UsageMunicipalities, non-profits, private recreation providersMunicipalities, non-profits, sports organizations, educational institutions

Recreation Programs focus on developing and managing recreational activities and events, often overseeing multiple programs. Recreation Coordinators handle the planning, coordination, and execution of specific activities or events within these programs. While both roles require similar certifications and work in related environments, Recreation Coordinators have a more hands-on role in organizing and managing day-to-day activities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Recreation Program jobs in California?

The most popular types of Recreation Program jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Recreation Program job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Sr. Recreation Leader (Relief) **$500 Hiring Incentive

County of Tuolumne

Sonora, CA

$18.15 - $22.06/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


County Of San Luis Obispo rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

385th of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Description **TUOLUMNE COUNTY RECREATION DEPARTMENT IS RECRUITING TO FILL FOUR (4) VACANCIES** Under general supervision, assists in planning, organizing, implementing, supervising and promoting programs at playgrounds, youth centers or other assigned recreation facilities; to provide direction to Recreation Leaders and volunteers; and performs related work as required. SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED Receives general supervision from the Recreation Program Coordinator. May provide technical direction and training to staff and volunteers.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS This class is responsible for assisting in coordinating and implementing seasonal programs for youth and other populations to provide a safe and fun recreational environment for participants. Incumbents may provide training and leadership to assigned assistants and volunteers. This class is distinguished from the Recreation Program Coordinator in that the latter has overall program, budgetary, and administrative responsibility for multiple recreation activities and facilities or a comprehensive recreational program.

Examples of Duties (Illustrative Only) Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job. Assists with planning, coordinating and implementing a variety of youth recreational activities and programs, including but not limited to sports, crafts, drama, special events, etc. Evaluates participants' level of functioning, skill and special requirements.

Assists with community relation efforts to increase public awareness and support of department programs. Monitors the condition of facilities, vehicles and equipment, and requests maintenance or repair work as needed to ensure participant and staff safety. Supervises youth during activities and events and enforces department rules and regulations.

Selects and purchases materials and supplies for activities. Assists with the issuance and maintenance of facility equipment. Prepares and maintains a variety of records and reports regarding activities, services and related information.

May train and provide leadership of Recreation Leaders and volunteers. Acts as a County representative, in person and over the phone, to patrons and the general public concerning questions, problems, concerns, and activities in areas of responsibility. Ensures the safety of the public and staff at all times by inspecting, patrolling, monitoring, and instructing on the safe use of program facilities, equipment, and supplies; maintains a safe, clean, and tidy environment; reports unsafe conditions or illegal activities.

Performs general administrative/clerical work as required, including but not limited to preparing reports and correspondence, establishing and maintaining records, copying and filing documents, entering and retrieving computer data, answering the telephone, etc. Attends meetings, training, seminars, etc., as necessary to enhance job knowledge and skills. Performs other related duties as assigned Minimum Qualifications Knowledge of: Basic principles of employee and volunteer supervision, motivation and training

Principles, practices, and service delivery needs of recreation program development and implementation. Procedures for planning, implementing, and maintaining a variety of recreation and leisure activities and programs. Recreational, cultural, age-specific, and social needs of the community.

Applicable Federal, State, and local laws, regulatory codes, ordinances, and procedures relevant to the program area and facilities to which assigned. Safety principles and practices, including basic first aid and adult and/or child cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) methods. Applicable safety precautions and procedures related to the program area(s) and facilities to which assigned.

Modern office practices, methods, and computer equipment and applications. English usage, spelling, vocabulary, grammar, and punctuation. Techniques for effectively dealing with and motivating individuals of various ages, various socio-economic and ethnic groups, and effectively representing the County in contacts with the public.

Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and County staff. Methods of report preparation and records maintenance. Ability to: Plan, organize and supervise groups of all sizes in a variety of recreational activities.

Plan and prepare recreation activities, reports, and other related program materials while remaining flexible and adapting activities to participant needs. Maintain records and prepare reports and correspondence regarding recreation programs and activities. Communicate effectively with participants and parents.

Provide and promote effective staff and volunteer training and leadership as assigned. Interpret, apply, explain, and ensure compliance with applicable Federal, State, and local policies, procedures, laws, and regulations. Work with and provide courteous assistance to facility patrons.

Handle rescues, medical emergencies and injuries in a calm and effective manner, including providing basic first aid and adult and/or child cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Maintain facilities and equipment in a clean, safe, and secure manner. Operate modern office equipment including computer equipment and software programs.

Maintain accurate logs, records, and basic written records of work performed. Maintain confidentiality as required. Organize and prioritize a variety of projects and multiple tasks in an effective and timely manner; organize own work, set priorities, and meet critical time deadlines.

Use English effectively to communicate in person, over the telephone, and in writing. Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines. Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Education and Experience: Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be Must have attended or have completed some high school. One (1) year of experience working with youth or pre-school aged children in an organized activity.

Must be at least 16 years old at date of hire. Licenses and Certifications: Must have reliable transportation to and from work. Possession, or ability to obtain, CPR / First Aid certification within thirty (30) days of employment.


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