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Recreation Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CNIC Careers

$56K/yr

... ITT), Recreation Centers, Bowling, Paintball, and Auto Skills.Qualifications: * Combination of experience related to customer service and or activity-based programming. * Ability to work ...

US Department of the Navy

$56K/yr

... ITT), Recreation Centers, Bowling, Paintball, and Auto Skills.Qualifications: * Combination of experience related to customer service and or activity-based programming. * Ability to work ...

City of Rialto

Recreation Specialist

Rialto, CA

$20.68 - $22.80/hr

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED Receives general supervision from an assigned Recreation Programmer. May receive functional or technical supervision from an Assistant Pool Manager and/or ...

City of Rialto

Recreation Leader

Rialto, CA

$18.75 - $20.68/hr

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED Receives direct supervision from an assigned Recreation Programmer. May receive functional or technical supervision from an Assistant Pool Manager and/or Recreation ...

City of Rialto, CA

Recreation Specialist

Rialto, CA · On-site

$20.68 - $22.80/hr

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED Receives general supervision from an assigned Recreation Programmer. May receive functional or technical supervision from an Assistant Pool Manager and/or ...

City of Rialto, CA

Recreation Aide

Rialto, CA · On-site

$22.79 - $25.13/hr

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED Receives general supervision from assigned Recreation Programmer and/or higher level management staff. May exercise operational, functional and technical ...

City of Rialto, CA

Recreation Leader

Rialto, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $20.68/hr

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED Receives direct supervision from an assigned Recreation Programmer. May receive functional or technical supervision from an Assistant Pool Manager and/or Recreation ...

City of Rialto

Recreation Aide

Rialto, CA

$22.79 - $25.13/hr

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED Receives general supervision from assigned Recreation Programmer and/or higher level management staff. May exercise operational, functional and technical ...

City of Calistoga

Recreation Coordinator

Calistoga, CA · On-site

$31.57 - $38.01/hr

Plans and oversees a variety of recreation programs, which may include youth and adult sports, fitness classes, senior programming, aquatics, contract classes, seasonal camps, and special events.

City of Pittsburg, CA

Recreation Coordinator

Pittsburg, CA · On-site

$73K - $89K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Knowledge of parks and recreation programming. * Leadership experience and people management skills. * Excellent communicator with strong verbal and written skills. * Able to prioritize and ...

City of Pittsburg

Recreation Coordinator

Pittsburg, CA · On-site

$73K - $89K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Knowledge of parks and recreation programming. Leadership experience and people management skills. Excellent communicator with strong verbal and written skills. Able to prioritize and efficiently ...

City of San Leandro

Recreation Coordinator

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$97K - $118K/yr

Under general supervision, plans, coordinates, schedules, assigns, supervises, and participates in the work of staff responsible for supporting the implementation of recreation programming, Citywide ...

City of El Cajon

Recreation Specialist III

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$23.15 - $75/hr

One year experience and/or training performing duties comparable to a Recreation Specialist II and/or some experience with recreation programming and leading activities for children and/or adults.

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Recreation Programmer information

See California salary details

$9

$23

$33

How much do recreation programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreation programmer in California is $23.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.87 and $25.14 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 California?

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

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

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

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

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

Recreation Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreation Programmer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,108 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

MWR Recreation Specialist (Programmer)

CNIC Careers

On-site

$56K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

This role, within the Community Recreation Division of the Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) Department at Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC), involves managing a wide-ranging, year-round recreation program and its facilities. Key areas include Parks, Picnic Areas, Outdoor Adventure Activities, Camping, RV Parks, Vehicle Storage, the Liberty Program, Library, Information, Tickets and Tours (ITT), Recreation Centers, Bowling, Paintball, and Auto Skills.Qualifications:
  • Combination of experience related to customer service and or activity-based programming.
  • Ability to work independently, make sound decisions and have the ability to effectively communicate both orally and in writing.
  • Knowledge of the goals, principles, techniques and methods of procedure used in organizing, planning and conducting all types of activities.
  • Knowledge of the entire scope of activities and their suitability in the Community Recreation Program for individuals and groups, of varying demographics, ages and interests.
  • Ability to create, negotiate, implement and sustain partnerships via various MWR agreements.
  • Ability to maintain a clear and accurate database.
  • Ability to represent the department and speak in front of both small and large groups.
  • Knowledge of recreational and entertainment events.
Education:This job does not have an education qualification requirement.Employment Type: OTHER

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