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Recreation Programmer Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

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Recreation Programmer information

See Minnesota salary details

$9

$23

$32

How much do recreation programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreation programmer in Minnesota is $23.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.72 and $24.95 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 Minnesota?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Recreation Programmer job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 7% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,736 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Sports and Recreation Coordinator

National Sports Center

Blaine, MN

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Sports and Recreation Event Coordinator, has several responsibilities including: leading and/orassistingon assigned tournaments, leagues or program functions as an event manager or registrar and working closely with thereferee teamto ensure all elements of the referee program are complete. This position requires work outside of traditional business hours as needed. The employee will have the ability to coordinate with their supervisor flexible working hours and remote activity.Required working days include, but are not limited, to NSC tournaments.

Reporting Relationship

Reports To: Sports and Recreation Director

Supervises:

  • Sports and Recreation Interns
  • Seasonal Staff
  • Independent Contractors
  • Event Volunteers (as assigned)

Position Responsibilities

Event Management and Operations

  • Serve as the event manager and/or registrar for assigned tournaments, leagues, camps, clinics, and recreational programs.
  • Coordinate all aspects of event planning and execution, including registration, scheduling, communications, staffing, and event-day operations.
  • Develop andmaintainevent timelines, operational plans, and participant communications.
  • Ensure events are delivered safely, professionally, and in alignment with organizational standards.
  • Provide exceptional customer service and serve as a primary point of contact for participants, coaches, officials, and event stakeholders.
  • Assistwith event budgeting, registration reconciliation, and financial reporting activities.
  • Support event setup, execution, troubleshooting, and post-event evaluation.
  • Identifyopportunities to enhance participant experiences and improve operational efficiency.
  • Collaborate with internal departments to ensure seamless event delivery.
  • Assistin the development and implementation of new tournaments, leagues, and recreational programming opportunities.
  • Support team and referee recruitment efforts through outreach, relationship building, and attendance at recruiting events as assigned.

Referee Administration and Event Staffing

  • Partner closely with the Referee Assignors to support all referee operations for assigned events and programs.
  • Assist on referee recruitment, scheduling, assignment, and event-day support.
  • Manage referee staffing needs for tournaments and competitions involving up to 450 officials.
  • Coordinate staffing and operations for Referee Headquarters during tournaments and major events.
  • Assign referees for a variety of events including leagues and tournaments.
  • Process assignment updates, schedule changes, and event-related referee adjustments.
  • Assistwith referee payment preparation, reconciliation, and post-event reporting.
  • Support referee communication, marketing, retention, and development initiatives.
  • Collaborate with referee leadership to ensure adequate staffing levels and a positive officiating experience.