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Recreation Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Join Lewiston Parks and Recreation and be part of the team that brings our community's events and ... Support programming by preparing fields, facilities, parks and operating materials and equipment ...

Recreation Assistant

Lewiston, ID · On-site

$12 - $14/hr

Parks & Recreation - 1424 Main St. Lewiston, ID Job Type: Part Time Job Number: 00326 Department ... Support programming by preparing fields, facilities, parks and operating materials and equipment ...

Arena/Recreation Staff

Willmar, MN · On-site

$14.75 - $16.50/hr

Promotes and informs the public regarding youth/adult recreation programming. * Oversees enrollment and registration for youth/adult recreation. * Assists in ordering of supplies and equipment for ...

Recreation Superintendent

O Fallon, MO · On-site

$79.83K - $85K/yr

This position is responsible for planning, organizing, and directing all operations of the Recreation Division, including the Renaud Center, recreation programming, events, and customer service ...

Recreation Superintendent

O Fallon, MO · On-site

$79.83K - $85K/yr

This position is responsible for planning, organizing, and directing all operations of the Recreation Division, including the Renaud Center, recreation programming, events, and customer service ...

The role also supports basketball programming and oversees contractual sports camps during the summer season. Qualifications: * Bachelors degree in Recreation, Sports Management, or a related field ...

The role also supports basketball programming and oversees contractual sports camps during the summer season. Qualifications: * Bachelor's degree in Recreation, Sports Management, or a related field ...

Head Lifeguard Seasonal

Janesville, WI

$13 - $16.75/hr

Under general supervision of the Recreation Programmer and the Aquatics Supervisor. The Head Guard is responsible for assisting in the planning, promotion, development, coordination and supervision ...

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Recreation Programmer information

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How much do recreation programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreation programmer in the United States is $23.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 Recreation Programmers?

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 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.

More about Recreation Programmer jobs
What cities are hiring for Recreation Programmer jobs? Cities with the most Recreation Programmer job openings:
What states have the most Recreation Programmer jobs? States with the most job openings for Recreation Programmer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Recreation Programmer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Locum Tenens, 6% As Needed, 39% Full Time, 13% Temporary, 34% Contract, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,760 per year, or $23.9 per hour.
Graduate Assistant for Recreation Programming

Graduate Assistant for Recreation Programming

Chapman University

Orange, CA • On-site

$21/hr

Other

Posted 14 days ago


Chapman University rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

283rd of 532 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Student Title Classification Information
Quick Link https://chapman.peopleadmin.com/postings/39373 Job Number SE187024
Position Information
Department or Unit Name SE - Wellness and Recreation Services Position Headcount 1 Position Title Graduate Assistant for Recreation Programming Academic Year Academic Year 2026-2027 Term or Semester All Academic Year Is this Role for an Undergrad or Grad Student? Grad Anticipated Pay Range $21.00 - $21.00 Pay Range Information
Chapman University is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this position. This range takes into account a variety of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. Salary offers are determined based on the final candidate's qualifications and experience, as well as internal equity and other internal factors. The anticipated pay range is not a promise of a particular wage.
On which Campus will this work be done? Orange Approved Supervisor Michael Sakhel Supervisor Email sakhel@chapman.edu
Scheduling

Please use dates within Chapman Academic Calendar
(https://www.chapman.edu/academics/academic-calendar.aspx)

Desired Start Date 07/20/2026 Projected End Date 05/23/2027 Average number of hours per week Up to 19 Hrs
Position Summary Information
Job Description Summary
In support of the Student Affairs Learning Outcomes, the Wellness and Recreation team manages multiple fitness and recreation facilities and coordinates a variety of on- and off-campus recreation and wellness education programming. Alongside professional staff and in collaboration with other team members, the Graduate Assistant for Recreation Programming assists with overseeing the development, staffing, and implementation of Panther Sports Tournaments, off-campus recreation experiences, and camping gear rentals. The Graduate Assistant strives to create welcoming experiences that contribute to the University by building community, increasing the students' pride in Chapman University, and improving students' healthy sense of self. The Graduate Assistant is an employee in the Department of Student Engagement and the Division of Student Affairs.
Responsibilities
Student Employee Supervision and Development
  • Assist professional staff with onboarding, training, supervision, and evaluation of student employees.
  • Assist professional staff with enforcement and documentation of employee compliance with expectations and University policy.
  • Assist professional staff with internal team building, development, and recognition opportunities.
  • Model exemplary work pertaining to the responsibilities below, providing a standard for others to follow.

Recreation Programming
  • Collaborate with off-campus vendors and on-campus partners including Event Operations, Facility Management, Custodial Services, Media Services, Sodexo, and Risk Management to ensure successful planning and execution of programming.
  • Ensure each participant has completed the appropriate Chapman University waiver prior to participation in events and use of camping gear.
  • Provide excellent service to guests in all Wellness and Recreation facilities.
  • Provide accurate information regarding Chapman University and Wellness and Recreation programs.
  • Present a positive image of Chapman University employees, specifically the Wellness and Recreation team.
  • Present an image of an individual who understands themselves to be responsible for the safety of participants and for cultivating a welcoming and engaging experience for participants.
  • Plan, coordinate, and supervise off-campus recreation activities including hiking, surfing, paddleboarding, and skiing/snowboarding.
  • Plan, coordinate, and supervise on-campus Panther Sports Tournaments.
  • Oversee the check-in, check-out, inspection, and inventory of camping rental gear.
  • Ensure all programming is facilitated in compliance with University policies and procedures.
  • Ensure all program registrations are conducted through the approved software (Fusion).
  • Ensure collection and maintenance of accurate rosters and experience surveys for all programs

Other Responsibilities
  • Assist in other ways with all of the above as determined by supervisor.
  • Understand established on- and off-campus emergency response procedures.
  • Follow emergency response procedures when responding to emergencies, including notifying professional staff immediately.
  • Document all accidents, incidents, and emergencies resulting in personal injury, facility damage, or theft by completing an Accident/Incident Report.
  • Offer, but do not administer, basic first aid supplies as needed.
  • Promote recreation programming along with other Wellness and Recreation facilities, programs, and services.
  • Promote the use of Wellness and Recreation virtual engagement platforms (e.g. RecPortal, CU Health and Wellness website, Panther Connect, Instagram, etc.) 
  • Attend all scheduled Wellness & Recreation staff meetings and training sessions.
  • Serve as a representative for the Wellness and Recreation team at events as determined by supervisor.
  • Participate in and contribute to Department of Student Engagement programs, services, experiences, and resources as determined by supervisor.
Required Qualifications
  • Enrollment in a Ph.D. or Master's degree program, preferably focused on leadership development or higher education and student affairs
  • Because of the student-facing nature of this role, remote work is not permitted. Student employees are encouraged to use sick pay when it is needed and available.
  • CPR/First Aid/AED certification through the end of the academic year (provided by the Department of Student Engagement).
  • Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, and delegate to a large group
  • Commitment to teamwork, customer service, collaboration, conflict resolution, and providing service to students.
  • Ability to exercise initiative, work independently, and hold high standards of dependability and accountability.
  • Ability to work with a diverse group of individuals at all organizational levels, both inside and outside the University. 
  • Ability to use tact and diplomacy and maintain a high level of confidentiality. 
  • Strong time management skills, including punctuality to arrive at shifts on-time, and the ability to prioritize duties when faced with interruptions, distractions, and fluctuating workload. 
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills
  • Possess attention to detail, the ability to accept direction, willingness to work and learn from colleagues and supervisor, and commitment to apply feedback to work performance.
  • Willingness to accept direction and changes to responsibilities as determined by supervisor.
  • Courteous and confident demeanor when delegating and holding others accountable.
  • Ability to learn and use standard office equipment and various software programs.
Desired Qualifications
  • Previous experience working directly with recreation programming.
  • Effectiveness in establishing rapport with Chapman professional staff.
  • Familiarity with departments and organizations at Chapman.
  • Knowledge of or experience with campus policies and procedures.
  • Effectiveness in establishing rapport with Chapman professional staff.
  • Knowledge of topics related to student transitions, belonging, and needs in higher education.
  • Strong problem solving and conflict resolution skills.
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office, Humanity, and Fusion systems.
  • Ability to lift objects of 45lbs.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Budget Information
Is Federal work-study required? With or Without FWS