1

Recreational Management Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Recreational Therapist

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site

$36.05 - $46.15/hr

Recreation Therapy. Must be eligible for national certification or state certification ... Must be able to perform Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Management of Assaultive Behavior. Job ...

Our multidisciplinary team of Recreational Therapists, Music Therapists, Creative Arts Therapists ... Collaborate with caregivers, case managers, and interdisciplinary team members to ensure ...

Our multidisciplinary team of Recreational Therapists, Music Therapists, Creative Arts Therapists ... Collaborate with caregivers, case managers, and interdisciplinary team members to ensure ...

Recreation Manager

Simi Valley, CA ยท On-site

$97K - $141K/yr

Experience with management of aquatics facilities * Bachelor's degree in Recreation Management orequivalentrelated degree program WE ARE RICHLAND At the City of Richland, your work makes a difference ...

Our multidisciplinary team of Recreational Therapists, Music Therapists, Creative Arts Therapists ... Collaborate with caregivers, case managers, and interdisciplinary team members to ensure ...

Our multidisciplinary team of Recreational Therapists, Music Therapists, Creative Arts Therapists ... Collaborate with caregivers, case managers, and interdisciplinary team members to ensure ...

Recreation Therapy. Must be eligible for national certification or state certification ... Must be able to perform Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Management of Assaultive Behavior. Job ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Recreational Management information

See California salary details

$36K

$82.8K

$179.6K

How much do recreational management jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for recreational management in California is $82,780.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,200.00 and $93,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is recreational management?

Recreational management is the field focused on overseeing, planning, and organizing recreational programs and facilities, such as parks, community centers, sports complexes, and leisure activities. Professionals in this area work to create enjoyable and safe experiences for participants, manage staff, develop programs, and ensure the efficient operation of facilities. They often collaborate with local governments, non-profits, and private organizations to promote healthy and active lifestyles in communities. The role may also involve budgeting, marketing, and evaluating program effectiveness.

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

To thrive as a Recreation Manager, you need a background in recreation administration, program planning, and facility management, often backed by a degree in recreation or a related field. Familiarity with scheduling software, budgeting tools, and safety regulations is typically required, and certifications like CPR/First Aid may be necessary. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help you effectively coordinate staff, engage participants, and handle unexpected challenges. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, well-organized programs that meet community needs and uphold organizational standards.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in recreational management, and how can they be effectively addressed?

Professionals in recreational management often encounter challenges such as balancing limited budgets, ensuring safety and accessibility for all participants, and managing diverse community expectations. Effective communication, creative problem-solving, and proactive planning are key to overcoming these issues. Building strong relationships with staff, stakeholders, and the community also helps in identifying needs early and addressing concerns before they escalate. Continuous professional development and staying updated on industry best practices further support successful management.

What is the difference between Recreational Management vs Recreation Coordinator?

AspectRecreational ManagementRecreation Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in recreation, leisure studies, or related fieldOften requires a similar degree or relevant experience
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple programs, staff, and facilities; managerial roleAssists in program planning and implementation; more hands-on
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by parks, community centers, resorts, and recreation departmentsCommonly employed in community centers, parks, and recreational facilities

Recreational Management involves overseeing entire recreation programs and staff, focusing on strategic planning and operations. In contrast, Recreation Coordinators typically handle specific programs or events, focusing on day-to-day activities. Both roles require relevant education and experience, but Recreational Management is more managerial, while Recreation Coordinators are more involved in direct program delivery.

Is a recreational management degree worth it?

A recreational management degree prepares individuals for careers in managing parks, sports facilities, and community programs by providing knowledge of program planning, facility operations, and customer service. It can improve job prospects and earning potential, especially when combined with relevant certifications or experience. However, practical experience and networking often play a significant role in career advancement in this field.

What do recreational management do?

Recreational management involves planning, organizing, and overseeing recreational activities and facilities to ensure safe and enjoyable experiences for the public. Professionals in this field coordinate programs, manage staff, and maintain parks, sports complexes, or community centers, often requiring knowledge of safety protocols and customer service skills.

What job categories do people searching Recreational Management jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Recreational Management jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Recreational Management jobs?

Cities in California with the most Recreational Management job openings:

Infographic showing various Recreational Management job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,780 per year, or $39.8 per hour.

Recreation Manager

Village Management Services, Inc

Laguna Woods, CA โ€ข On-site

$79K - $96K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

601-Recreation Services - 1120-601 Recreation Manager

JOB SUMMARY:

Under direction, plans, organizes, supervises and directs the work of subordinates engaged in supervising a wide variety of educational and recreational program activities conducted in assigned facilities; performs related work as required.

Supervision is exercised over assigned clubhouse personnel directly or through Clubhouse Supervisors. Work involves regular contact with other departments, divisions, residents and the general public.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Plans, organizes and directs recreation activities in clubhouses, community center, fitness centers and aquatics; confers with the Recreation Director concerning objectives, new or revised policies, operating problems and matters affecting other departments or divisions; plans and implements new programs or procedures in accordance with established objectives, conducts regular walk-throughs of recreation facilities troubleshooting areas.

Prepares annual budget estimates and administers the approved budget. Develops work programs and schedules; supervises and directs the work of subordinates within the department; plans and supervises the development of department training and safety programs; selects and evaluates employees; provides feedback to employees throughout their review period; and provides feedback during employee performance review that is timely, specific, honest, and designed to help the employees succeed.

Meets with resident clubs and individual residents, discusses, and presents programs and activities. Resolves a variety of problems through personal conferences; co-chairs the bimonthly Presidents Council meetings and serves as Staff Officer to advisory/ad hoc committees as assigned.

Assists the Recreation Director in a wide variety of departmental problems. Conducts special studies and develops long-range plans and acts for the Recreation Director when designated.

At Fitness Centers, coordinates staffing schedules with instructors from Saddleback College for maximizing utilization of the facility.

Drives a vehicle to meetings, workshops, and other job related responsibilities.

Regular attendance required. All duties performed on-site for the Community.

Works effectively with co-workers, customers and others by sharing ideas in a constructive and positive manner; listens to and objectively considers ideas and suggestions from others; keeps commitments; keeps others informed of work progress, timetables and issues; addresses problems and issues constructively to find mutually acceptable and practical business solutions; addresses others by name, title or other respectful identifier; and respects the diversity of our workforce in actions, words and deeds.

NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Prepares weekly publicity for TV6 news announcing recreation programs. Provides instruction throughout the year in C.P.R. for immediate staff and other VMS personnel.

EQUIPMENT OPERATED:

Vehicle, PC, printer, fax machine, telephone, copier.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is in a climate-controlled indoor office and normal outdoor elements.


 

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS:

Graduation from an accredited four year college or university with major course work in Recreation Administration and considerable supervisory experience in adult recreation programming, or any equivalent combination of education and experience which produces the following:

  • Knowledge of PC and applicable software programs.
  • Knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions of the job.
  • Knowledge of modern office equipment, computers, practices, systems and procedures.
  • Knowledge of the principles and practices of auditorium management and contracts.
  • Knowledge of the principles, practices and objectives of recreation administration.
  • Knowledge of the methods and sources for locating and booking professional entertainment and contracts.
  • Knowledge of human behavior as applied to adult groups participating in recreational activities.
  • Knowledge of human behavior, psychology, and mental hygiene as applied to varied groups participating in recreational activities.
  • Ability to develop and execute a well-rounded program of recreational activities on a community wide basis, and to supervise staff and technicians.
  • Ability to work with groups of mature adults in recreational activities.
  • Ability to write and speak effectively.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees and the public.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

Possession of a valid California driver’s license.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to talk, hear, and use hands to finger, grasp, feel and reach. The employee is regularly required to sit for long periods of time. The employee is occasionally required to carry, kneel, pull, push, stoop, and lift up to 10 lbs.

MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:

Reading, confidentiality, problem solving, reasoning, verbal & written communication, customer contact, multiple concurrent tasks, constant interruptions.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.

Company Description

Village Management Services, Inc. provides professional management services to the community of Laguna Woods Village, the largest Southern California independent-living community for people 55 and older. The Village is built on 2,100 acres, features 12,736 homes and is home to about 18,000+ residents. Managing Laguna Woods Village is similar to managing a city. VMS, Inc.’s approximately 1,000 employees provide a wide variety of services to Village residents and maintain the community infrastructure. VMS, Inc. is a mutual-benefit, nonprofit corporation. Our commitment to quality and excellent customer service has made Laguna Woods Village one of the most emulated active retirement establishments in the country.