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Recreation Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Recreation Specialist

Rialto, CA ยท 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 ...

Recreation Leader

Rialto, CA ยท 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 ...

Recreation Specialist

Rialto, CA ยท 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 ...

Recreation Leader

Rialto, CA ยท 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 ...

Recreation Aide

Rialto, CA ยท 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 ...

Recreation Aide

Rialto, CA ยท 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 ...

Recreation Coordinator

Calistoga, CA ยท 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.

Recreation Coordinator

Pittsburg, CA ยท On-site

$73K - $89K/yr

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 ...

Recreation Temporary/Seasonal

Santa Rosa, CA ยท On-site

$16.50 - $20.25/hr

We offer recreation programming in our parks and recreation centers to participants of all ages and abilities. We also provide gang prevention and intervention services to youth in Santa Rosa through ...

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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 Sep 1, 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.

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.

Recreation Specialist

City of Rialto, CA

Rialto, CA โ€ข On-site

$20.68 - $22.80/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Salary: $20.68 - $22.80 Hourly
Location : Rialto, CA
Job Type: Part-Time
Job Number: 23-011
Department: PRKRECSVC ADMINISTRATION
Opening Date: 02/16/2023
Closing Date: Continuous
Classification Definition
(PART-TIME/AT-WILL)
Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.
DEFINITION
Under general supervision, plans, organizes, publicizes, develops, and instructs special recreation, sports, cultural, or social service programs & activities at various parks, schools, and recreation facilities. Positions may include assignments in the following areas: Sports (officiating, score keeping, refereeing youth and adult sports); Senior Cultural (classes, excursions, senior citizen programs and special events); Racquet and Fitness Center (fitness room, front counter, swimming pool, and special programs); Child Development (Kidstuff Child Care programs); or clerical. Performs other related duties as required.
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 Recreation Aide.
Essential Duties and Responsiblities
ESSENTIAL AND MARGINAL FUNCTION STATEMENTS--Essential and other important responsibilities and duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
โ€ข Participate in and conduct recreation activities, program planning, attend staff meetings, review current programs and make recommendations to immediate supervisor.
โ€ข Plan, organize and supervise group activities and programs.
โ€ข Keep score or records for citywide youth sports programs as needed.
โ€ข Conduct recreation programs, after-school programs, special events, or youth sports as assigned.
โ€ข Chaperone at dances, excursions or special events.
โ€ข Monitor volunteers to ensure they are meeting city and department requirements as assigned.
โ€ข Develop participant and spectator interests, enthusiasm and participation.
โ€ข Issue, collect, properly maintain and inventory city equipment and supplies.
โ€ข Prepare and maintain accurate records and reports of program activities.
โ€ข Set up rooms for activities or rentals.
โ€ข Supervise and monitor facility rentals to ensure applicant complies with city department policies and procedures.
โ€ข Be familiar with department flyers and publications and be able to share accurate information with customers regarding department programs/services.
โ€ข Perform related duties and responsibilities as required.
Minimum Qualifications
Experience and Training Guidelines - Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:
Experience/Training:
Six months of paid, volunteer, or participant experience in a recreation setting; equivalent to completion of the twelfth grade.
License or Certificate
Possession of a valid California driver's license.
Possession of, or ability to obtain within 6 weeks of employment, a valid American Red Cross First Aid/CPR certificate.
QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
  • Principles, rules, and practices of organizing, planning and conducting recreation programs.
  • First aid and CPR methods necessary in taking safety precautions.
  • Basic operations, services and activities of recreation programs, activities and events.
  • Principles and practices of recreation program development and implementation.
  • Rules and proper techniques for playing a variety of sports activities.
  • Principles and practices of data collection and report preparation.
  • Current office equipment including computers.

Ability to:
  • Work a flexible schedule.
  • Adhere to work schedule and deadlines.
  • Instruct individual and group fitness programs & activities for youth and adults.
  • Speak publicly to program participants.
  • Understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
  • Learn and perform assigned tasks.
  • Prepare and maintain recreation program records as directed.
  • Interact tactfully and effectively with program participants.
  • Chaperone participants on excursions and at dances and parties.
  • Develop actives for programs assigned.
  • Maintain detailed files and records.
  • Interpret and explain City policies and procedures.
  • Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with subordinates, co-workers, supervisors and all city staff.
  • Maintain mental capacity which allows for effective interaction and communication with others.
  • Maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities.

Supplemental Information
Application Procedure:
A City application form and supplemental questionnaire (if applicable) MUST be submitted and received by the closing date. Please apply online at www.yourrialto.com. All other employment inquiries can be directed to The City of Rialto, Human Resources Department. 246 S. Willow, Rialto, CA 92376. Telephone: (909) 820-2540.
Selection Process:
Candidates must clearly demonstrate through their application material that they meet the employment standards outlined above. All properly completed applications will be reviewed, and the most appropriately qualified individuals will be invited to continue in the selection process. Examinations for the positions may consist of any combination of written, performance, and oral exams to evaluate the applicant's skills, training, and experience for the position. Successful applicants will be placed on an eligibility list. The City may also merge lists. The selected candidate(s) must successfully complete pre-employment clearances which may include a physical, drug screen, and fingerprinting.
Veterans Preference Credit Eligibility:
Veterans of the armed forces, who have been discharged or released from active duty under conditions other than dishonorable (Government Code: 18540.4), shall receive an additional five (5) points to their final examination score for ranking purposes only. This preference will apply only to the first appointment to any regular full-time City appointment. A copy of your valid DD214 must be submitted on or before the final filing date in order to be eligible for Veterans Preference Credit. For more information, please see the City's
E-Verify:
The City of Rialto is an E-Verify employer. E-Verify is an internet based system operated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in partnership with the Social Security Administration (SSA) that allows participating employers to electronically verify the employment eligibility of newly hired employees in the United States.
30 hours of paid sick leave to be accrued and used in accordance to the City's Sick Leave Policy dated 7/1/15.
01
What is your highest level of education?
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent
  • Some College
  • Associates Degree
  • Bachelors Degree
  • Masters Degree

02
Do you have 6 months of paid, volunteer, or participant experience in a recreation setting?
  • Yes
  • No

03
If you answered "YES" to question #2, please explain your experience. "See resume" is not a valid answer.
04
Do you have a valid State of California drivers license?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Do you have a valid American Red Cross First Aid/CPR certificate?
  • Yes
  • No

06
If you answered "NO" to question #5, are you able to obtain a valid American Red Cross First Aid/CPR certificate within the first 6 weeks of employment?
  • Yes
  • No

07
By selecting "I understand", I understand that I cannot update my application once I have submitted it. Therefore, I have fully completed all sections of the application and provided full descriptions of my duties and responsibilities for each employer, and have fully reviewed my answers to all questions on the supplemental. Failure to fully complete my application, answer the supplemental questions (if applicable), and attach copies of the required certificates, may result in my application being rejected. (Do not indicate "refer to a resume or other documentation".)
  • I understand.

Required Question