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Recreation Program Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

CNIC Careers

Recreation Assistant

Newport News, VA

$17.25/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 ...

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Recreation Program information

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$8

$21

$34

How much do recreation program jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreation program in Virginia is $21.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.64 and $25.00 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 jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Recreation program roles typically do not pay $4,000 a week without specialized skills or certifications. High-paying jobs in this field usually require experience, management responsibilities, or additional qualifications. Most recreational positions offer moderate wages, and earning such high weekly pay generally involves advanced roles or related industries.

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 are some jobs in the recreation industry?

Jobs in the recreation industry include recreation coordinator, park ranger, fitness instructor, lifeguard, sports coach, and outdoor adventure guide. These roles often require knowledge of safety procedures, customer service skills, and sometimes certifications such as CPR or lifeguard training.

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 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 is considered a recreational job?

A recreational job involves working in settings that provide leisure, entertainment, or physical activities, such as parks, sports facilities, community centers, or camps. These roles often include positions like recreation coordinator, camp counselor, lifeguard, or fitness instructor, and may require certifications or knowledge of activity-specific skills.

What are common recreation job duties?

Recreation program staff organize and lead activities such as sports, arts and crafts, and community events to promote engagement and well-being. They may also coordinate facilities, ensure safety, and communicate with participants, often requiring certifications like CPR or first aid. The role involves planning, supervision, and customer service in recreational settings.
What are the most commonly searched types of Recreation Program jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Recreation Program jobs in Virginia are:
Recreation Program jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreation Program job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,111 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Recreation Program Specialist

Blue Ridge Care

Winchester, VA

$15 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Therapeutic Recreation Assistant - Why Join Us?

With the mission of “Delivering extraordinary care to improve life’s journey,” Blue Ridge Care is dedicated to providing the highest-quality, compassionate, and comprehensive physical, emotional, and spiritual care for aging and seriously ill members of our community, their families, and those affected by grief.

A part of the Blue Ridge Care organization, Blue Ridge Independence at Home is a Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). Our interdisciplinary team blends expertise, compassion, and dedication to ensure that each individual receives the preventative, primary, acute, and long-term health and personal care services they need. From clinicians to therapists, personal care aides to care coordinators, every member of our team plays a crucial role in delivering unparalleled care. Together, we prioritize the health, happiness, and independence of those we serve.

About the Role

The Therapeutic Recreation Assistant supports the Therapeutic Recreation Specialist by preparing and facilitating meaningful group and individual activities for PACE participants. This role promotes participant choice, independence, social connection, and quality of life through engaging, person-centered programming. The Therapeutic Recreation Assistant helps create a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment while encouraging participation and monitoring participant well-being.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Prepare for and facilitate group and individual programming designed or approved by the Therapeutic Recreation Specialist.

  • Adapt activities, materials, instructions, and pacing to meet participants’ interests, abilities, communication needs, and care plan directions.

  • Provide one-on-one engagement opportunities when group participation is not appropriate or preferred.

  • Assist participants with transfers and mobility throughout the Day Center using approved techniques, equipment, and participant-specific instructions.

  • Monitor participant safety, engagement, behavior, tolerance, and changes in condition, reporting concerns promptly to the interdisciplinary team.

  • Document attendance, participant responses, progress notes, refusals, barriers, and significant changes in accordance with organizational requirements.

  • Assist with the development and implementation of monthly activity calendars, participant newsletters, Day Center slide presentations, volunteer coordination, community presentations, special events, and celebrations.

  • Coordinate activity schedules with meals, showers, therapy sessions, clinic appointments, transportation, and other Day Center services.

  • Prepare activity spaces and supplies, including setup, cleanup, disinfection, inventory monitoring, and removal of unsafe materials or equipment.

  • Participate in staff meetings, team communications, competency validation, continuing education, and quality improvement activities.

  • Maintain participant dignity, rights, privacy, confidentiality, and professional boundaries at all times.

  • Follow all infection prevention, emergency preparedness, incident reporting, transfer assistance, and general safety procedures.

  • Perform other duties as assigned consistent with the purpose and level of the position.

Qualifications and Experience

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.

  • Minimum of one year of experience working with frail older adults or an elderly population required.

  • Experience leading groups, adapting activities, coordinating events, or recreational programming preferred.

  • Current BLS/CPR certification required or ability to obtain certification within the organization's required timeframe.

  • Successful completion of required background checks, health screenings, communicable disease clearance, and other employment requirements.

  • Basic knowledge of aging and dementia, or willingness to learn.

  • Ability to safely assist participants with transfers, mobility, and activity participation.

  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to engage older adults using patience, respect, creativity, and a person-centered approach.

  • Ability to document accurately and utilize electronic health records, email, calendars, and standard office software.

  • Must be dependable, organized, flexible, and able to work collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team.

Why You'll Love Working Here

  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

  • Retirement Plan with Company Match

  • Generous Paid Time Off

  • Employee Thrift Shop Discount

  • A mission-driven culture where your contributions matter every day.

Bring your creativity, compassion, and dedication to a team that enriches the lives of older adults every day. Apply today and help us promote the health, happiness, independence, and quality of life of those we serve.