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Recreation Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The GEO Group

RECREATION SPECIALIST

Baldwin, MI

$26.27/hr

The Recreation Specialist is responsible for the implementation and operation of a viable recreation program for all detainees. Oversees the recreation facilities and equipment. Primary Duties and ...

The GEO Group

RECREATION SPECIALIST

Baldwin, MI

$26.27/hr

The Recreation Specialist is responsible for the implementation and operation of a viable recreation program for all detainees. Oversees the recreation facilities and equipment. Primary Duties and ...

The GEO Group

RECREATION SPECIALIST

Baldwin, MI · On-site

$26.27/hr

The Recreation Specialist is responsible for the implementation and operation of a viable recreation program for all detainees. Oversees the recreation facilities and equipment. Primary Duties and ...

Northeast Arc

Recreation Specialist

Danvers, MA · On-site

$22/hr

Recreation Specialist Location: Danvers, MA / Community Based Sites Schedule: Based on program needs. This role requires Friday and Saturday availability and at least one weekday (preferably more ...

Northeast Arc

Recreation Specialist

Danvers, MA · On-site

$22/hr

Recreation Specialist Location: Danvers, MA / Community Based Sites Schedule: Based on program needs. This role requires Friday and Saturday availability and at least one weekday (preferably more ...

The GEO Group

RECREATION SPECIALIST

Hudson, CO · On-site

$26.19/hr

The Recreation Specialist is responsible for the implementation and operation of a viable recreation program for all detainees. Oversees the recreation facilities and equipment. Primary Duties and ...

Northeast Arc

Recreation Specialist

Danvers, MA · On-site

$22/hr

Recreation Specialist Location: Danvers, MA / Community Based Sites Schedule: Based on program needs. This role requires Friday and Saturday availability and at least one weekday (preferably more ...

voagny

Recreation Specialist

Queens Village, NY

Recreation Specialist The Recreation Specialist is responsible for assisting in the development and implementation of recreation activities and programming appropriate for the client population.

Project Renewal

Recreation Specialist

New York, NY · On-site

$23.38 - $25.58/hr

Recreation Specialist Program: 59th Street Women's Shelter Salary Range: $42,557-$46,557 annually Program Overview: The 59th Street Women's Shelter is a 200-bed, 24/7 emergency shelter for homeless ...

voagny

Recreation Specialist

Queens Village, NY · On-site

Recreation Specialist The Recreation Specialist is responsible for assisting in the development and implementation of recreation activities and programming appropriate for the client population.

voagny

Recreation Specialist

Manhattan, NY

Recreation Specialist The Recreation Specialist is responsible for the direct supervision of the clients in their assigned area, and for enforcing applicable rules and providing assistance as needed.

voagny

Recreation Specialist

Manhattan, NY · On-site

Recreation Specialist The Recreation Specialist is responsible for the direct supervision of the clients in their assigned area, and for enforcing applicable rules and providing assistance as needed.

SHERRILL HOUSE INC

Recreation Specialist

Boston, MA · On-site

$18 - $28/hr

Recreation Specialist - Full Time and Part Time * Part Time - 18 hours, Monday-Wednesday 10AM-4PM Competitive Wages + Benefits including FREE Parking Position Summary The Recreation Specialist is ...

CareRite Centers LLC

Recreation Specialist

Somers, NY · On-site

$28/hr

) Recreation Specialist The Paramount at Somers Rehabilitation and Nursing Center Somers, NY Full-Time Pay Rate: Up to $28 per hour Create Meaningful Experiences. Make a Difference Every Day. The ...

City of El Cajon

Recreation Specialist III

El Cajon, CA

$23.15 - $75/hr

Recreation Specialist III Starting Salary: $23.16 Hourly The City of El Cajon is currently searching for enthusiastic individuals to join our Parks & Recreation Department. The ideal candidate will ...

City of El Cajon

Recreation Specialist II

El Cajon, CA

$20.48 - $93/hr

Recreation Specialist II Starting Salary: $20.48 Hourly The City of El Cajon is currently searching for enthusiastic individuals to join our Parks & Recreation Department. The ideal candidate will be ...

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Recreation Specialist information

See salary details

$25.5K

$50.6K

$78K

How much do recreation specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for recreation specialist in the United States is $50,614.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $57,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a recreation specialist?

To thrive as a Recreation Specialist, you need knowledge of recreational programming, activity planning, and a background in physical education or a related field, often supported by a bachelor's degree. Familiarity with scheduling software, risk management protocols, and certifications like CPR or First Aid are typically required. Leadership, creativity, and strong interpersonal skills help you engage diverse groups and foster an inclusive environment. These skills ensure safe, enjoyable, and effective recreational experiences tailored to participants’ needs.

How to become a recreation specialist?

Becoming a recreation specialist does not require you to have formal qualifications or education, though many employers prefer candidates with prior experience in health and fitness-related positions. The requirements for specific positions can vary somewhat depending on the employer’s needs, but typically you are well served with a background in group activities, organization, fitness, and basic first aid. You may receive additional on-the-job training pertaining to specific duties and responsibilities as necessary. To succeed in this position, you must have excellent communications, interpersonal, and organizational skills.

What are some common challenges recreation specialists face when planning activities for diverse groups?

Recreation Specialists often work with participants from various backgrounds, ages, and ability levels, which can make it challenging to design programs that are engaging and inclusive for everyone. Balancing safety protocols, resource limitations, and differing interests requires creativity and strong organizational skills. Successful Recreation Specialists regularly adapt activities, seek participant feedback, and collaborate with colleagues to ensure programs remain accessible and enjoyable for all participants.

What is the difference between Recreation Specialist vs Recreation Coordinator?

AspectRecreation SpecialistRecreation Coordinator
CredentialsCPR/First Aid, relevant certifications, sometimes a degree in recreation or related fieldCPR/First Aid, similar certifications, often a degree in recreation or related field
Work EnvironmentCommunity centers, parks, recreational facilitiesCommunity programs, parks, recreational departments
Employer & IndustryPublic parks, community organizations, recreational agenciesMunicipalities, parks and recreation departments, community organizations
Common Search/ComparisonRecreation Specialist vs Recreation Coordinator

Recreation Specialists and Recreation Coordinators often share similar credentials and work environments, such as community centers and parks. The main difference lies in their roles: Recreation Specialists typically focus on implementing programs and activities, while Recreation Coordinators oversee planning, coordination, and management of recreational services. Both roles are vital in promoting community engagement and physical activity.

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For Recreation Specialist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Recreation Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Recreation Specialist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,614 per year, or $24.3 per hour.

Recreation Specialist

Northwest Special Recreation Association

Rolling Meadows, IL • On-site

$43K - $45K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Job Title
Recreation Specialist
Department
Recreation
Direct Reports
Part-Time Employees and Volunteers
Reports To
Manager of Programs and Special Events
Benefits
Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO, IMRF
Classification
Full-Time
Schedule
Estimated 40 hours per week Ability to work a flexible schedule Monday - Friday; will include occasional evenings and weekends based on programming and association business needs
Salary/Hourly Wage
$43.482-45,482.00
FLSA
Exempt
Job Purpose
The Recreation Specialist uses recreation, leisure, and activity-based interventions to enhance the physical, emotional, cognitive, and social well-being of individuals with disabilities. This role assesses participant needs, develops and implements individualized and program plans, facilitates therapeutic recreational programs, and evaluates outcomes to support functional improvement, independence, and overall quality of life within recreational settings.
Position Qualifications
  • Graduate from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Recreation, Parks and Recreation or related field of study.
  • Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist Certification (CTRS) through National Council on Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) or Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP), or the ability to obtain certification within a timeframe determined by Association policy and/or the Executive Director.
  • First Aid/CPR/AED certification required or ability to obtain.
  • Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) certification required or ability to obtain.
  • Ability to drive Association vehicles and obtain an Illinois Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
  • Maintain all required certifications.
  • Demonstrate thorough knowledge of the theory and philosophy of therapeutic and community recreation, with a strong commitment to individuals with disabilities. Possess the knowledge and ability to work effectively with individuals with disabilities.
  • Ability to assess, plan, develop, implement, and evaluate therapeutic recreation programs.
  • Highly motivated, outgoing, and confident self-starter with strong interpersonal and communication skills, both oral and written. Demonstrates leadership qualities, including maturity, flexibility, and professionalism.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Plan, develop and implement a variety of programs, including general, clubs, special events, Leisure Education, Winter, Spring and Summer camps, trips/overnights, Lightning Athletics, inclusive placements and cooperative programs, with creativity and enthusiasm.
  • Implement behavior management strategies as needed while supporting individual and social skill development, encouraging independence, promoting full participation by adapting activities, and ensuring participants' physical/emotional well-being.
  • Serve as a team leader for recreational programs, supervising and evaluating part-time employees and volunteers to promote group cohesiveness.
  • Solve complex problems, work efficiently under pressure, and meet deadlines for projects, assignments, and events.
  • Select and recommend supplies and equipment while overseeing inventory, cleaning, inspection, restocking, and ongoing maintenance within assigned areas of responsibility.
  • Assist in developing clear and concise communication for program staff, part-time employees, parents/ guardians, and community and district partners.
  • Provide on-call support for programs, addressing urgent participant needs and assisting with coverage, emergencies, or operational needs as required.
  • Effectively use phones, computers, tablets, software, and online tools to complete job duties, while preparing, receiving, understanding, and responding promptly to written communications via mail, text, or email.
  • Drive Association or personal vehicles for recreation programs, meetings, or Association business.
  • Assist with recruitment and outreach efforts by attending job fairs, school career programs, community events, and staff interviews.
  • Perform other duties as needed to support the Association's Vision, fulfill the Mission, and uphold NWSRA's Core Values.

Physical DemandsThe Recreation Specialist must, with or without reasonable accommodation, be able to perform the following functions:
  • Frequently stand, walk, sit, rotate, or feel; reach with arms and hands. The employee must be able to talk, hear, and see (both near and far).
  • Gather, load, transport, and set up equipment and supplies.
  • Ability to safely lift and transfer loads of up to 75 lbs. or apply up to 40 lbs. of force continuously to move objects.
  • Visual acuity required to operate Association vehicles.

Working Conditions
This job operates in a wide variety of environments. The noise level can range from quiet to loud. When working indoors, conditions can include different types of lighting, temperatures, and noise. When working outdoors you may be exposed to different types of weather conditions, heat, humidity, frigid, windy and wet conditions along with a variety of insects. You may encounter various exposures such as pool chemicals, cleaning chemicals, infectious diseases and a variety of elements when driving and programming for the Associations programs or Foundation events.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Equal Opportunity has been, and will continue to be, a fundamental principle at NWSRA, which bases employment upon personal capabilities and qualifications without discrimination because of an individual's actual or perceived race (including but not limited to traits associated with race, such as hair texture and protective hairstyles such as braids, locks, and twists), color, religion, sex, gender (including gender identity and expression), age, national origin, citizenship status, work authorization status, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, disability, association with a person with a disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, unfavorable discharge from military service or military status, civil union partnership, order of protection status, pregnancy, childbirth or a medical condition related to pregnancy or childbirth, or any other protected characteristic as established by law. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation to participate in the hiring process may contact HR at HRteam@nwsra.org.

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