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Recreation Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Recreation Specialist

Rochester, NY · On-site

$46K - $59K/yr

Recreation & Youth Services Opening Date: 07/20/2026 Closing Date: 7/31/2026 11:59 PM Eastern General Description This is an entry-level position responsible for conducting various recreation ...

Nursing Home Recreation Aides Ontario Center is actively hiring a Recreation Aide for our Skilled Nursing Facility. DUTIES: * Design & implement recreational programs for Residents. * Work directly ...

Recreation Aide - Heather Heights

Pittsford, NY · On-site

$14.25 - $15.25/hr

Recreation Aide - Heather Heights We have just the job for you! Heather Heights is NOW HIRING A FULL TIME (30 hours) Recreation Aide or PART TIME (20 Hours). Includes every other weekend. Come be a ...

Recreation Aide - Heather Heights

Pittsford, NY · On-site

$14.25 - $15.25/hr

Recreation Aide - Heather Heights We have just the job for you! Heather Heights is NOW HIRING A FULL TIME (30 hours) Recreation Aide or PART TIME (20 Hours). Includes every other weekend. Come be a ...

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Recreation information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$10

$17

$22

How much do recreation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreation in Rochester, NY is $17.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Recreation Coordinator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Recreation Coordinator, you need knowledge of program planning, recreational activities, and a relevant degree or certification in recreation, leisure studies, or a related field. Familiarity with scheduling software, budgeting tools, and health and safety regulations is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, and leadership are vital for engaging participants and managing teams. These competencies ensure safe, enjoyable, and well-organized recreational programs that meet community needs.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

Recreation jobs that can pay around $4,000 a week without a degree typically include roles such as experienced event coordinators, specialized fitness trainers, or freelance outdoor guides, often requiring significant experience, certifications, or self-employment. High earnings in this field usually depend on skill level, reputation, and the ability to secure large or multiple contracts, rather than formal education.

What is the difference between Recreation vs Fitness Instructor?

AspectRecreationFitness Instructor
CredentialsCPR certification, sometimes specialized certifications in activitiesCPR certification, personal training certifications (e.g., NASM, ACE)
Work EnvironmentCommunity centers, parks, recreational facilitiesGyms, fitness clubs, private studios
Industry UsageUsed broadly in community and recreational settingsPrimarily in health and fitness industry
Job FocusOrganizing recreational activities and programsProviding fitness instruction and training

Recreation professionals focus on organizing and facilitating leisure activities for community engagement, while fitness instructors concentrate on guiding individuals through exercise routines to improve health and fitness. Both roles require certifications like CPR, but their work environments and primary objectives differ significantly.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in recreation roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals working in recreation often encounter challenges such as managing diverse participant needs, adapting programs for varying age groups and abilities, and ensuring safety during activities. Balancing administrative tasks with hands-on involvement can also be demanding, especially during peak seasons or special events. Effective communication, ongoing training, and creative problem-solving are essential for addressing these challenges and delivering engaging, inclusive programs.

What are the highest paying recreation jobs?

High-paying recreation jobs include positions such as recreation director, sports facility manager, and recreation therapist, often requiring advanced education, certifications, or management experience. These roles typically involve overseeing programs, managing staff, and working in settings like community centers, sports complexes, or healthcare facilities, with salaries varying based on experience and location.

How to Get a Job in Recreation

Most recreation workers have at least a bachelor’s degree, typically in recreation or leisure studies. Other bachelor’s degrees may qualify candidates, depending on the exact nature of the job. You may also consider obtaining certifications through the National Recreation and Park Association and the American Camp Association; these certifications require varied levels of education and training, and some require continued education. If you are pursuing a career in recreation, and again depending on the exact position, you may need additional certifications, such as first aid and CPR, which are offered through the American Red Cross. Many of the courses are offered locally or online.

What are recreation jobs?

Recreation jobs involve planning, organizing, and leading activities that promote leisure, fitness, and community engagement. Common roles include recreation director, activity coordinator, and outdoor guide, often requiring skills in communication, organization, and sometimes certifications like CPR or lifeguard training.
What are the most commonly searched types of Recreation jobs in Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Recreation jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Recreation jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Recreation job openings:
Infographic showing various Recreation job openings in Rochester, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,419 per year, or $17 per hour.
Recreation Specialist

Recreation Specialist

City of Rochester, NY

Rochester, NY • On-site

$46K - $59K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


City Of Rochester (New York) rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

140th of 833 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Salary: $46,245.00 - $59,277.00 Annually
Location : Rochester, NY
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 26DM407DRA17
Department: Department of Recreation & Human Services
Bureau: Recreation & Youth Services
Opening Date: 07/20/2026
Closing Date: 7/31/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
General Description
This is an entry-level position responsible for conducting various recreation programs at a recreation facility. The employee will independently conduct one or more activities. Direct supervision is received from the facility director or assistant, and the employee may assign and review the work of part-time, seasonal, or volunteer staff. Work hours are generally scheduled in the afternoon, evening and weekends. May independently operate satellite or summer site with in-direct supervision. Related work is performed as required.
Under the NY HELPS Program, the Civil Service Exam for this title has been waived. For additional information regarding the NY HELPS Program, please visit:
CITY RESIDENCY WILL BE REQUIRED WITHIN ONE YEAR OF HIRE.
Typical Work Activities
  • Develops, coordinates, and conducts education, sports, health & fitness and youth development related programs and services;
  • Instructs and leads a wide variety of youth development, life skills, recreation, athletic, cultural and social activities, in accordance with the facility schedule;
  • Meets with youth councils and community members to develop programs and activities as directed;
  • Directs participants in the correct and safe use of facilities and equipment;
  • Ensures that participant code of conduct is understood and adhered to by all persons in the facility;
  • Inspects facility as directed to insure it is safe for use by participants;
  • Administers emergency first aid and CPR as required;
  • Prepares outdoor and indoor activity spaces for program use;
  • Advises participants about pertinent resources and programs available in the community;
  • Coaches and officiates softball, basketball, track and field sports, soccer and other team sports and games;
  • Distributes and maintains supplies and equipment;
  • Meets and corresponds with parents or guardians as directed to resolve issues related to participant behavior or conduct;
  • Responds to inquiries related to facility programs;
  • Performs basic administrative tasks such as filling out forms, collecting activity fees, maintaining records, and other required administrative tasks as directed;
  • Works cooperatively with permit-holders and other building users to resolve conflicts and provide on-site support;
  • Recruits youth and adult recreation participants through a variety of means including neighborhood outreach and collaborations with other agencies;
  • Attends training sessions to remain current in youth development methods and research, first aid, and other necessary skills.

Minimum Qualifications
High school diploma or Equivalent PLUS:
  1. Associate's (or Bachelor's) degree in Recreation/Leisure Services, Physical Education, Human Services, Art, Drama, Dance, or Music; PLUS one (1) year of full-time experience (or part time equivalent) conducting or instructing recreation, educational, or leisure programs (such as sports, physical education, music, arts and crafts, dance, or dramatics); OR
  2. Two (2) years full-time experience (or part time equivalent) as described in Section 1 above.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
  1. Possession of American Red Cross standard first aid and CPR certification or equivalent at time of appointment and on a continuous basis throughout their incumbency.
  2. New York State Class D Driver's License at time of appointment. This licensure must be maintained throughout employment in this job.
  3. Possession and maintenance of a Van Certification issued by the Department of Recreation & Youth Services.

For full-time employees:
The City of Rochester offers a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
For less-than full-time employees:
The City of Rochester offers numerous growth opportunities to include the potential to transition into full-time, permanent employment.

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