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Recreational Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Recreation Manager

Albert Lea, MN · On-site

$78K - $94K/yr

... recreational facilities, and is seeking a Recreation Manager to provide strategic leadership, vision, and operational oversight for the department, its programming and facilities. With the ...

Recreation Manager

Peapack, NJ · On-site

$70K - $87K/yr

Please discuss with our hiring managers during our selection processes. If you are an internal ... Have a vast array of knowledge about recreational activities applicable to the area. PHYSICAL ...

Wednesday daytime Job Summary In collaboration with the Recreation Manager, Director and the Recreation Specialist staff, the Recreation Specialist implements and manages community-based programs and ...

Wednesday daytime Job Summary In collaboration with the Recreation Manager, Director and the Recreation Specialist staff, the Recreation Specialist implements and manages community-based programs and ...

... recreational facilities, and is seeking a Recreation Manager to provide strategic leadership, vision, and operational oversight for the department, its programming and facilities. With the ...

Directly manages the operations and staff of all Recreation, Fitness Center, and Aquatics programs ... Works with meeting planners to schedule group recreational activities and prepares activity event ...

Wednesday daytime Job Summary In collaboration with the Recreation Manager, Director and the Recreation Specialist staff, the Recreation Specialist implements and manages community-based programs and ...

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Recreational Manager information

See salary details

$28.5K

$64.8K

$103K

How much do recreational manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for recreational manager in the United States is $64,815.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,500.00 and $80,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Recreational Managers?

Recreational Managers are professionals responsible for planning, organizing, and overseeing recreational programs and activities at facilities such as parks, community centers, resorts, or sports complexes. They manage staff, coordinate schedules, ensure safety standards, and develop programs that meet the needs and interests of various groups. Their goal is to create enjoyable and inclusive recreational experiences, promote community engagement, and maintain efficient operations of recreational facilities.

What is the difference between Recreational Manager vs Recreation Coordinator?

AspectRecreational ManagerRecreation Coordinator
CredentialsOften requires a bachelor's degree in recreation, leisure studies, or related field; certifications like CPR/First Aid are commonSimilar educational background; certifications like CPR/First Aid are also typical
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple programs or facilities, manages staff, and handles budgetingAssists in program planning, coordinates activities, and supports recreational services
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by parks, community centers, and recreation departmentsCommonly employed in similar settings, often as entry to mid-level roles

The main difference is that Recreational Managers typically oversee entire programs or facilities, managing staff and budgets, while Recreation Coordinators focus on assisting with program planning and day-to-day activities. Both roles require similar credentials and work in comparable environments, but the Recreational Manager holds more responsibility and leadership within the organization.

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

To thrive as a Recreational Manager, you need expertise in program planning, facility management, and a background in recreation or leisure studies, often supported by a relevant degree or certification such as CPR/First Aid. Familiarity with scheduling software, budgeting tools, and risk management systems is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help foster team collaboration and ensure positive participant experiences. These abilities are crucial for creating safe, engaging recreational environments and efficiently managing staff and resources.

What are some common challenges faced by a Recreational Manager when coordinating multiple programs simultaneously?

As a Recreational Manager, balancing the logistics of various programs can be challenging, especially during peak seasons when demand is high. You'll need to manage scheduling, resource allocation, and staff assignments efficiently to prevent overlaps and ensure smooth operations. Effective communication with both your team and participants is crucial to address conflicts or last-minute changes. Staying organized and adaptable helps you maintain program quality and participant satisfaction.
More about Recreational Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Recreational Manager jobs? Cities with the most Recreational Manager job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Recreational jobs? The most popular types of Recreational jobs are:
What states have the most Recreational Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Recreational Manager jobs include:
Infographic showing various Recreational Manager job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 15% Full Time, 82% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,815 per year, or $31.2 per hour.
Recreational Therapist, Behavioral Health Unit

Recreational Therapist, Behavioral Health Unit

VHC Health

Arlington, VA

$21.13 - $33.36/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago


VHC Health rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

103rd of 869 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview

Step into a role where compassion meets creativity and every day brings the chance to make a meaningful impact. As a Recreational Therapist in Behavioral Health, you’ll be part of a close-knit, mission-driven team dedicated to treating the whole person, not just a diagnosis.

Our unit cares for adult patients (18+) with a wide range of psychiatric needs, maintaining a supportive patient ratio of approximately 1:5–1:8 depending on census and acuity. In this dynamic role, your day will blend clinical insight with hands-on engagement: conducting initial assessments and 72-hour reassessments, leading therapeutic group activities such as art, recreation, and exercise, and helping coordinate enriching experiences like pet therapy and volunteer services.

What truly sets this team apart is its culture. This is a family-oriented environment where collaboration is essential, every voice matters, and all staff share responsibility for patient care. You’ll utilize skills like therapeutic communication, milieu management, and goal-setting to empower patients on their recovery journey while also being supported by colleagues who value teamwork, advocacy, and connection. Our unit continues to evolve, with recent accomplishments including initiatives that enhance patient comfort and consistently high satisfaction scores. As services expand, so do opportunities for professional growth and innovation within the department.

CTRS (Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists) and those with a Bachelor of Science in Recreation Management (Therapeutic Recreation concentration) are encouraged to apply!

If you're looking for a role where you can build meaningful relationships, lead impactful programming, and be part of a team that truly supports one another, this is the place for you.

Located in Arlington, Virginia, VHC Health is a 548-bed, independent, not-for-profit health system and nationally recognized teaching hospital. We have proudly served the Washington, DC metropolitan community for more than 75 years. Consistently ranked among the top hospitals in Virginia and the region, VHC Health has earned recognition as a 2025 Forbes Best-In-State Employer and a 2025 Newsweek World’s Best Hospital. We also hold the prestigious Magnet® designation for nursing excellence. As a Level II Trauma Center, we are committed to delivering exceptional, patient-centered care when it matters most.


Responsibilities

Pay & Benefits: Commensurate with experience. Team members are eligible to receive benefits on the first day of the month following the date of hire, with 30 days to apply for benefits of choice.

  • Employee-Led Engagement and Wellness Committee dedicated to make work a fun and healthy place to work
  • Annual Employee Survey – Your Voice is Heard at VHC!
  • Paid Major Holidays
  • Generous Paid Time Off / Vacation / Sick Time
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Student Loan Repayment
  • Career Counseling, Leadership Development and Training
  • Clinical and Research Pathways Eligible
  • Annual Merit Review and Merit Increases
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Health Fitness & Education Class Discounts
  • Employee Wellness Benefits
  • Hospital Discount for Employees and Family
  • VHC Health Outpatient Pharmacy
  • VHC Retirement Program
  • Workforce Enhancement Program
  • Work/Life Discounts Program
  • Free onsite parking
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Family Leave
  • 401(k) + Match
  • and much more!

Qualifications

Purpose & Scope: 

The Recreational Therapist provides therapeutic leisure activity in accordance with standards of practice for Recreational Therapy for patients with disabilities.

Education: 

Bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Recreation, or an approved related field is required.

Experience: 

One year experience in acute inpatient rehabilitation is preferred.

Certification/Licensure: 

BLS certification is required

Food Manager certification is preferred


What VHC Health employees say

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