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Recreational Management Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Community Recreation

Waverly, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Oversee recreational programming for youth and adults as an instructor or official. Principal Job ... Community Recreation Manager Function of Position: Oversee all activity for community rec youth ...

Ice Arena Shift Leader

Ames, IA · On-site

$7.25 - $21.19/hr

Distributed Responsibilities: Assist Recreation Manager in training new Shift Leaders and Cashiers. Each employee is expected to continually strive to bring shared values to life through our ...

Care at this location focuses on crisis management, stabilization and development of a plan to ... C., Puerto Rico and the united Kingdom. www.uhs.com Qualifications Recreation Therapist Position ...

Care at this location focuses on crisis management, stabilization and development of a plan to ... C., Puerto Rico and the united Kingdom. www.uhs.com Qualifications Recreation Therapist Position ...

... Manager with ordering recreational/craft supply ordering. • Assists Program Manager with PACE Volunteer oversight and training. • Completes risk reports per company policy. • Fosters team ...

... Manager with ordering recreational/craft supply ordering. • Assists Program Manager with PACE Volunteer oversight and training. • Completes risk reports per company policy. • Fosters team ...

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Showing results 1-20

Recreational Management information

See Iowa salary details

$34.3K

$78.8K

$170.9K

How much do recreational management jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for recreational management in Iowa is $78,784.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,400.00 and $88,800.00 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 are popular job titles related to Recreational Management jobs in Iowa?

For Recreational Management jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Recreational Management job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,784 per year, or $37.9 per hour.

Recreational Therapist

Acadia Healthcare

Council Bluffs, IA • On-site

Other

Posted 25 days ago


Acadia Healthcare rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 190 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

698th of 893 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview
Recreational Therapist CTRS at Methodist Jennie Edmundson Behavioral Health Hospital
What would you do in this role?
Plan, direct and implement activity therapy programs as a component of the patient's treatment plan.
Methodist Health System, the region's most established not-for-profit provider, has partnered with Acadia Healthcare, the nation's largest standalone behavioral health company, to open a new 96-bed inpatient behavioral health hospital in Council Bluffs, Iowa. This marks Acadia's first acute psychiatric facility in Iowa, expanding much-needed access to behavioral health services across Southwest Iowa and the Greater Omaha area. Just minutes from downtown Omaha, Council Bluffs blends small-town charm with city convenience-offering affordable living, great schools, and a strong sense of community-making it an ideal location for this important new facility.
Opened in June 2026, Methodist Jennie Edmundson Behavioral Health Hospital offers a full continuum of inpatient and outpatient care for adults, seniors, and youth, including programs for mood disorders, dual diagnosis, geriatric psychiatry, child & adolescent care, PHP/IOP, and ECT. The facility will play a vital role in addressing the region's significant behavioral health bed shortage.
Responsibilities
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Complete activity assessment through patient observation and patient/family interview, obtaining information on the patient's needs, skills, interests and limitations for the development and implementation of the treatment plan.
  • Plan, organize, direct and implement the activities within the treatment program to facility patient progress with treatment goals.
  • Plan and implement an activities program including but not limited to therapeutic leisure skills and activities, leisure education and leisure awareness.
  • Facilitate and lead activity sessions to improve patient mental and physical well-being.
  • Instruct patients in activities and techniques, such are sports, dance, music, art or relaxation techniques designed to meet their specific needs.
  • Develop treatment plans and implement activity interventions that meet patient needs and interests and helps the patient achieve his/her treatment goals.
  • Engage patients in therapeutic activities, such as exercise, games and community outings.
  • Help patients learn social skills needed to become or remain independent.
  • Modify activities to suit the needs of specific groups.
  • Demonstrate a positive, empathetic and professional attitude towards customers always. When patient needs are not met, acknowledge and work to resolve complaints. Recognize that patient safety is a top priority.
OTHER FUNCTIONS:
  • Perform other functions and tasks as assigned.
Qualifications
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Therapeutic Recreation, Recreational Therapy or related field required.
  • Master's degree preferred.
  • Three or more years' experience in recreation in a healthcare setting with knowledge of patient population served by the facility required.
  • Previous experience in recreation in a healthcare setting is preferred.
LICENSES/DESIGNATIONS/CERTIFICATIONS:
  • Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) or currently in the process of obtaining national certification; OR certified in the area of specialty (Art, Dance, Music, etc.) OR clinical professional licensure (LCPC, LPC, etc.) with certification in expressive therapy area required.
  • CPR and de-escalation and restraint certification required (training available upon hire and offered by facility).
  • First aid may be required based on state or facility requirements.

While this job description is intended to be an accurate reflection of the requirements of the job, management reserves the right to add or remove duties from particular jobs when circumstances
(e.g. emergencies, changes in workload, rush jobs or technological developments) dictate.
We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment regardless of an individual's characteristics protected by applicable state, federal and local laws.
AHGROW
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About Acadia Healthcare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Acadia Healthcare is a leading provider in the healthcare and hospital industry, based in Franklin, Tennessee, United States. The company is recognised for its commitment to creating a behavioural health network that provides accessible, high-quality treatment options for individuals suffering from mental health issues, addiction, eating disorders, and PTSD. Acadia Healthcare was founded in 2005, with the mission to create a world-class organization that sets the standard of excellence in the treatment of specialty behavioural health and addiction disorders.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Franklin, TN, US

Year founded

2005

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