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Recreation Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Recreation Programmer information

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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:

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.

Director of Parks & Recreation

City of Claremont

Claremont, CA โ€ข On-site

$63.01 - $101.48/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

The City of Claremont, New Hampshire is seeking an energetic, visionary, and community-focused leader to serve as its next Director of Parks & Recreation.

Nestled in the scenic Upper Valley region of New Hampshire, Claremont offers an exceptional quality of life with abundant outdoor recreation, a vibrant downtown, historic charm, and easy access to the mountains, lakes, and cultural amenities of New England. With a strong sense of community and a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for residents of all ages, Claremont is investing in its parks, recreational facilities, programs, and public spaces.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced parks and recreation professional to lead a department that manages more than 620 acres of municipal parks, forests, trails, athletic fields, recreation facilities, and community spaces while helping shape the future of recreation services for the community.

About the Position

Reporting directly to the City Manager, the Director of Parks & Recreation is responsible for the overall leadership, administration, planning, budgeting, and operation of the City's Parks & Recreation Department.

The Director oversees departmental personnel, recreational programming, community center operations, facility maintenance, capital improvement planning, special events, community partnerships, and the stewardship of the City's parks and recreational assets. The successful candidate will be a collaborative leader who can balance strategic planning with hands-on operational management while fostering strong relationships with residents, community organizations, schools, volunteers, and City leadership.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Leading and supervising Parks & Recreation staff and departmental operations.
  • Managing parks, athletic fields, trails, playgrounds, community centers, and recreation facilities.
  • Developing and administering departmental operating and capital budgets.
  • Planning and evaluating recreation programs, events, and community initiatives.
  • Coordinating facility improvements, capital projects, equipment replacement, and procurement activities.
  • Building partnerships with schools, athletic organizations, nonprofits, and community groups.
  • Pursuing grant opportunities and alternative funding sources.
  • Representing the department before boards, commissions, community organizations, and the public.
Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree in Parks & Recreation Administration, Public Administration, or a related field required; Master's Degree preferred.

Candidates should possess at least seven (7) years of progressively responsible parks and recreation management experience, including a minimum of three (3) years of supervisory experience, preferably within a municipal or public sector environment.

Current certification as a Certified Parks & Recreation Professional (CPRP) through the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) is required or must be obtained and maintained as required.

The Director of Parks & Recreation is a Grade 11 position within the City's Merit Compensation Plan.

Salary Range

$63,013.85 - $101,480.06

The City generally hires qualified candidates between the minimum and midpoint of the salary range based on experience, education, certifications, and overall qualifications.

Benefits
  • Health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) contributions for eligible employees
  • Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
  • Professional development and training opportunities
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Flexible and supportive work environment committed to employee success
Join Our Team

If you are a forward-thinking parks and recreation professional who is passionate about community engagement, public service, outdoor recreation, and enhancing quality of life, we encourage you to apply and become part of Claremont's continued growth and success.

The City of Claremont is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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