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Recreation Programmer Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

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Recreation Programmer information

See Alberta salary details

$9

$25

$51

How much do recreation programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreation programmer in Alberta is $25.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.74 and $34.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a recreation programmer?

Recreation Programmers are professionals who plan, organize, and implement recreational activities and programs for community centers, parks, schools, or private organizations. They design schedules, coordinate resources, and oversee events such as sports leagues, arts and crafts classes, fitness programs, and special community events. Recreation Programmers work to ensure that programs are safe, inclusive, and engaging for participants of all ages. They also often handle administrative tasks like budgeting, marketing, and evaluating program effectiveness.

What are some common challenges recreation programmers face when organizing community programs?

Recreation Programmers often encounter challenges such as balancing diverse community interests, managing limited resources, and adapting to last-minute changes in participant numbers or facility availability. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are essential for coordinating with instructors, volunteers, and other departments. Staying flexible and proactive helps ensure programs run smoothly and meet the needs of all participants.

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

To thrive as a Recreation Programmer, you need a background in recreation management or a related field, along with experience in planning and coordinating recreational programs. Familiarity with scheduling software, registration systems, and sometimes certifications like CPR/First Aid are typically required. Strong communication, creativity, and organizational skills enable effective engagement with diverse groups and the ability to design appealing activities. These competencies ensure programs run smoothly, meet community needs, and foster positive participant experiences.

What is the difference between Recreation Programmer vs Recreation Coordinator?

AspectRecreation ProgrammerRecreation Coordinator
CredentialsCPR certification, relevant degrees in recreation or leisure studiesCPR certification, relevant degrees in recreation or leisure studies
Work EnvironmentDesigns and implements recreational programs, often in community centers or parksOversees program operations, manages staff, and coordinates activities in similar settings
Employer & IndustryMunicipal parks, community centers, recreational facilitiesMunicipalities, community organizations, recreational agencies

Recreation Programmers focus on developing and implementing recreational activities, while Recreation Coordinators manage program operations and staff. Both roles require similar credentials and work in community-based environments, but their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What are popular job titles related to Recreation Programmer jobs in Alberta?

For Recreation Programmer jobs in Alberta, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Recreation Programmer jobs in Alberta look for?

The top searched job categories for Recreation Programmer jobs in Alberta are:

Infographic showing various Recreation Programmer job openings in Alberta as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,598 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Assistant Recreation Programmer

Sherwood Park, AB

Strathcona County
1 - 5K employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

The Assistant Recreation Programmer (ARP) is responsible for providing direct support to the Recreation Programmer by assisting in the supervision of high performing staff, contract instructors, projects, and other duties, as required.

The Assistant Recreation Programmer provides coordination support of recreation programs and community events and ensures all program areas and equipment are maintained to the highest level and provide quality service to our clientele. This position collaborates with organizations, agencies,and individuals on a specific program or event basis and provides input into future program development for indoor programs.Typical work shifts may include days, evenings, weekends, and statutory holidays.  

Key Responsibilities:  

  • Support the planning, coordination, and administration of recreation programs across a variety of program areas
  • Support the Recreation Programmer to recruit, hire, train, schedule and evaluate a program staff/contract instructor team
  • Assist in day-to-day supervision, ongoing feedback, mentorship, and leadershipto instructors, and volunteers
  • Collaborate with the Recreation Programmer to develop and enhance staff training, operational procedures, and internal processes that support program excellence
  • Coordinate with indoor and outdoor facilities and spaces for program usage
  • Support participant engagement initiatives through surveys, feedback collection, guest retention strategies, and orientation programs
  • Actively engage with program and facility guests while providing excellent customer service  
  • Assist with surveys and feedback collection, guest retention strategies,and orientation programs  
  • Attend program, staff, and community meetings as required, representing programs in a professional and positive manner
  • Assist with the preparation and distribution of program publicity/promotional material aligning with marketing plans

Qualificationsand Skills:

  • High school diploma combined with a minimum of four years of experience in recreation programming, community services, or a related field
  • Experience working in an aquatic environment is considered an asset
  • Post-secondary education completed or in progress in Recreation, Physical Education, Tourism, Community Development, or related discipline is preferred. An equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered.
  • Minimum two years of program coordination experience, supported by recreation-related leadership and supervisory experience, including staff coaching, performance management, and team development
  • Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate teams while maintaining high standards of safety, service excellence, and program quality
  • Excellent interpersonal, communication, leadership, and team-building skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with staff, volunteers, participants, and community partners
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant software applications
  • Strong customer service orientation with a commitment to creating positive, inclusive, and engaging recreation experiences for all participants


Conditions of Employment:

  • Current Intermediate First Aid/CPR & WHIMIS
  • Submission of a Satisfactory Vulnerable Sector Check
  • Valid Alberta Class 5 Driver's licence  


Who We Are:
Strathcona County is a specialized municipality located in the heart of Alberta.  Our vision is to become Canada's most livable community, where our workplace culture and identity are supported by our people plan and values of integrity, respect, safety, collaboration, and accountability.  

Why Join Strathcona County: (depending on position)

  • Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, which includes:
    • Extended health and dental coverage    
    • Health and wellness spending account    
    • Life and disability insurance
    • Retirement and pension programs  
    • Earned day off program
    • Employee and family assistance program
  • Commitment to employee development, through internal and external training and development opportunities
  • Well-being programs and a safety culture focused on physical and psychological health in the workplace

Equivalencies of education and experience may be considered.

This competition may be used to fill future vacancies for similar positions within the next 6 months.  

Strathcona County is committed to an inclusive, respectful, and equitable workplace that represents the community we serve. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who can contribute diverse perspectives and experiences.
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.