Parks and Recreation Coordinator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s eco-conscious society, the focus on Parks and Recreation Coordinators has never been more significant.

As the world moves towards a more sustainable future, the demand for skilled individuals who can plan, manage, and preserve our parks and recreational facilities grows increasingly urgent.

But let’s delve a little deeper: What’s truly expected from a Parks and Recreation Coordinator?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager crafting the profile of the ideal candidate,
• Or merely fascinated by the behind-the-scenes aspects of parks and recreation coordination,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Parks and Recreation Coordinator job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Parks and Recreation Coordinator Duties and Responsibilities

Parks and Recreation Coordinators are responsible for overseeing and managing the daily operations, activities, and programs within a park or recreational facility.

They are also in charge of managing staff, maintaining facilities, and ensuring public safety.

The primary duties and responsibilities of a Parks and Recreation Coordinator include:

• Planning, organizing, and coordinating recreational programs for various age groups
• Inspecting park facilities and equipment to assess condition and need for maintenance
• Scheduling and supervising maintenance work for parks and recreational facilities
• Preparing and managing budgets for park operations and maintenance
• Coordinating with local community groups to organize events and encourage park use
• Implementing safety protocols and ensuring public safety within park facilities
• Recruiting, hiring, and training park personnel
• Developing and implementing marketing strategies to promote park activities and programs
• Ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations related to park operations and maintenance
• Responding to inquiries and complaints from the public
• Monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of park programs and making necessary adjustments

 

Parks and Recreation Coordinator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for an organized and community-focused Parks and Recreation Coordinator to direct the operations of our public parks and recreational facilities.

The Parks and Recreation Coordinator’s responsibilities include developing and implementing recreation programs, managing budgets, and ensuring the facilities are safe and well-maintained.

The ideal candidate should have strong leadership skills, experience in budgeting and planning, and a passion for community development.

 

Responsibilities

• Plan, develop, and implement recreation programs that cater to the community
• Manage budgets and seek funding for park improvements
• Coordinate the maintenance, cleaning, and repair of park facilities
• Ensure parks and facilities comply with safety regulations
• Manage the hiring, training, and supervision of parks and recreation staff
• Coordinate with local organizations and businesses to sponsor events and programs
• Handle and resolve any complaints or issues from the public
• Promote the parks and recreation services to the community
• Evaluate the effectiveness of programs and services

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience in parks and recreation management or a related field
• Excellent leadership and organizational abilities
• Strong budgeting and planning skills
• Knowledge of safety regulations and procedures
• Excellent communication and public speaking skills
• Ability to build relationships with local organizations and the community
• Bachelor’s degree in Parks and Recreation Management or a related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Parks and Recreation Coordinator
• Work Environment: Office setting with frequent on-site visits to parks and recreational facilities. Some travel may be required for meetings or professional development events.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Parks and Recreation.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Parks and Recreation Coordinator Do?

A Parks and Recreation Coordinator typically works for local government departments or private organizations that manage public spaces such as parks, recreational facilities, and community centers.

They are responsible for planning, organizing, and overseeing a wide range of programs and activities for the community.

This can include sports leagues, arts and crafts classes, outdoor adventures, educational programs, and special events like concerts or festivals.

They work closely with other staff members, volunteers, and community leaders to ensure these programs meet the needs and interests of the community.

They may also be responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of parks and recreational facilities, including maintenance, safety inspections, and staff scheduling.

Additionally, Parks and Recreation Coordinators often assist in budget planning and management, grant applications, and fundraising efforts to secure the necessary funds for their programs and facilities.

They play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life of their communities by promoting physical activity, social interaction, and learning through fun, engaging, and accessible recreational activities.

 

Parks and Recreation Coordinator Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Parks and Recreation Coordinator should possess a combination of administrative, management, and people skills, such as:

• Strong organizational and administrative skills to efficiently manage various tasks, from scheduling events and coordinating staff to overseeing maintenance and operations.
• Exceptional communication skills to effectively interact with community members, staff, and vendors, as well as to promote park programs and events.
• Ability to develop and implement recreational programs that cater to the needs of the community, using both creativity and a sound understanding of public recreation.
• Problem-solving skills to promptly address any issues or conflicts that may arise within the parks and recreation department.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and risk management to ensure public safety in the park facilities.
• Experience in budget planning and financial management to ensure the efficient use of park resources and funds.
• Leadership abilities to manage and motivate a diverse team of employees and volunteers.
• Ability to work in an outdoor environment under different weather conditions and physical abilities for routine inspections of park facilities.

 

Parks and Recreation Coordinator Experience Requirements

Entry-level Parks and Recreation Coordinator candidates typically require a minimum of 1 to 2 years of experience working in a related field like outdoor recreation, sports management or community services.

This experience might be acquired through internships, seasonal work, or part-time roles in municipal parks or community centers.

Candidates who have 2 to 5 years of experience usually have broader knowledge and skills in areas like program development, budget management, and stakeholder communication.

They are often capable of taking on more complex projects and responsibilities within the role of a Parks and Recreation Coordinator.

For those with over 5 years of experience in the field, they are likely to have been exposed to leadership and managerial roles.

They may have had the responsibility of managing a team, leading large-scale projects, and implementing strategic plans.

Such candidates are often considered for senior or director-level roles within Parks and Recreation departments.

In all cases, ongoing professional development through courses or workshops related to recreational programming, public administration, or community engagement is typically viewed positively by hiring organizations.

 

Parks and Recreation Coordinator Education and Training Requirements

Parks and Recreation Coordinators usually hold a bachelor’s degree in parks and recreation management, leisure studies, outdoor recreation, or a related field.

Courses in these programs can include community organization, recreational programming, business management, and human resources.

In addition to the degree, practical experience is highly valued.

This can be gained through internships, volunteer work, or relevant part-time jobs in the field.

Some positions may require candidates to have a Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) or Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) certification.

These certifications require a mixture of education and experience, along with passing a comprehensive examination.

Continuing education is also important in this field, as coordinators need to stay updated on recreation trends, safety protocols, and community engagement strategies.

Furthermore, it is beneficial for Parks and Recreation Coordinators to have first aid and CPR training due to the nature of their work.

Skills in leadership, communication, and public relations, as well as a passion for outdoor activities and community service, are also important in this role.

 

Parks and Recreation Coordinator Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Parks and Recreation Coordinator is around $50,233 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can fluctuate based on years of experience, qualifications, and the geographical area where the job is located.

 

Parks and Recreation Coordinator Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Parks and Recreation Coordinator need?

Parks and Recreation Coordinators need to have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with community members and staff.

They also need strong organizational skills to manage multiple projects and events at once.

In addition, they should have a solid understanding of park operations, safety regulations, and budget management.

 

Do Parks and Recreation Coordinators need a degree?

Most Parks and Recreation Coordinator positions require a bachelor’s degree in parks and recreation, public administration, or a related field.

Some positions may require additional certifications or licenses, such as a Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) credential.

Experience in park management or community services is also highly desirable.

 

What should you look for in a Parks and Recreation Coordinator resume?

Look for a degree in a relevant field and any additional certifications.

Examine their experience in managing parks, recreational programs, or community services.

Check for skills in project management, community outreach, and budget management.

Experience in grant writing can be a plus as funding is often a critical part of this role.

 

What qualities make a good Parks and Recreation Coordinator?

A good Parks and Recreation Coordinator is community-oriented and passionate about providing quality recreational experiences for the public.

They should be adept at multi-tasking, have excellent problem-solving skills, and be able to work effectively with diverse populations.

They must also be detail-oriented to ensure safety standards and guidelines are met in all park facilities.

 

What are the daily duties of a Parks and Recreation Coordinator?

On a typical day, a Parks and Recreation Coordinator might meet with community members or staff to discuss programs or events, inspect park facilities for safety and cleanliness, and manage budgets for various projects.

They could also be involved in planning and executing recreational events, applying for grants, and conducting community outreach to increase park usage and participation in programs.

 

Conclusion

And so, we conclude.

Today, we’ve delved into what it truly means to be a Parks and Recreation Coordinator.

Surprised?

It’s not just about organizing events.

It’s about creating memorable experiences, one event at a time.

With our ready-to-use Parks and Recreation Coordinator job description template and real-life examples, you’re prepared to move forward.

But there’s more.

Further your understanding with our job description generator. This tool is your next step towards crafting precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every event you coordinate contributes to the larger community experience.

Let’s create those unforgettable moments. Together.

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