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Recreation Program Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

Renewal Inc

Recreational Coordinator

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$18 - $22.59/hr

Definition Develops and administers a comprehensive recreation program to meet the objectives, interests and capabilities of the reentrant population for all Renewal, Inc. and Renewal Treatment Inc ...

Redeemer Health

Therapist, Recreation

Meadowbrook, PA · On-site

We offer programs that set up new team members for long-term success including education assistance ... SUMMARY OF JOB Plans, coordinates, and conducts a therapeutic recreation program tailored to the ...

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All JobsRecreation Program JobsRecreation Program Jobs in Pennsylvania

Recreation Program information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$8

$21

$34

How much do recreation program jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreation program in Pennsylvania is $21.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $25.29 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Pennsylvania?

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

Recreation Program jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreation Program job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,610 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Recreation Programs Specialist

Penn State University

Middletown, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 104 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

233rd of 627 rated colleges and universities

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
This is a/an 75 % full-time equivalency (FTE) job. This position will work 30 hours per week. This position is eligible for benefits associated with any full-time position. The salary grade and range listed in the posting is reflective of a 100% Full-time position. Full-time equivalency job offers may fall outside of the listed range due to the assigned percentage of effort.
POSITION SPECIFICS
The Recreation Programs Specialist develops, coordinates, administers, and evaluates comprehensive recreation programs and services that support student engagement, wellness, learning, and community building; provides leadership and oversight for assigned recreation program areas such as intramural sports, sport clubs, fitness and wellness, outdoor recreation, aquatics, informal recreation, special events, facilities, or related recreational services; assesses program needs, develops and implements initiatives, leads program operations and resources, ensures compliance with University policies and safety standards, and collaborates with campus partners to enhance the recreational experience for students, faculty, staff, and community participants.
  • Develop, implement, administer, and evaluate recreation programs, services, activities, and special events that support student engagement, wellness, learning, and recreational participation
  • Assess participant needs, industry trends, and program effectiveness; identify opportunities for program enhancements, growth, and new initiatives
  • Coordinate program operations including scheduling, participant registration, facility reservations, equipment allocation, staffing, and event logistics
  • Establish program goals, performance measures, and assessment strategies; collect and analyze participation and operational data and prepare reports and recommendations
  • Participate in the development, maintenance, and implementation of policies, procedures, and standard operating practices to ensure effective program delivery and compliance with University, regulatory, and industry standards
  • Monitor program activities and facilities to ensure participant safety, risk mitigation, accessibility, and a positive user experience; coordinate incident response, documentation, and corrective actions as needed
  • Collaborate in the oversight of inventory, maintenance, and utilization of recreation equipment, supplies, and program resources
  • Schedule student employees, instructors, officials, volunteers, and other assigned personnel
  • Facilitate training and development programs related to leadership, customer service, risk management, program delivery, and operational effectiveness
  • Administer, and monitor program budgets; track expenditures and revenues, analyze financial performance, and recommend adjustments to support operational and strategic objectives
  • Coordinate purchasing activities, vendor relationships, contracts, and service agreements in accordance with University policies and procedures
  • Collaborate with other recreation staff and campus partners to support recreational programming, student success initiatives, facility operations, and special projects
  • Serve as a liaison with University departments, student organizations, community partners, vendors, and professional organizations to advance program goals and foster engagement.
  • Coordinate marketing, promotional, and outreach efforts to increase awareness, participation, and engagement in recreation programs and services
  • Provide specialized instruction, coaching, facilitation, or fitness programming within assigned areas of expertise and ensure activities are delivered in accordance with established standards and best practices
  • May supervise professional staff, including responsibility for hiring, performance management, coaching, and professional development

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:None
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.
Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $44,628.00 - $64,668.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.
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