Recreation and Activities Director Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s fast-paced world, the role of a Recreation and Activities Director is more important than ever.

With society increasingly recognizing the importance of leisure and wellness, there’s a growing demand for experienced professionals who can curate, oversee and enhance our recreational activities and programs.

But what does a Recreation and Activities Director really do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker wanting to understand the crux of this position,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect applicant,
• Or simply interested in the behind-the-scenes of recreational program management,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a versatile Recreation and Activities Director job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Recreation and Activities Director Duties and Responsibilities

Recreation and Activities Directors coordinate, plan, and supervise programs and services that encourage physical, social, and personal development for individuals, particularly in a communal or residential setting.

They are primarily responsible for creating and implementing engaging activities and events, with daily duties and responsibilities including:

• Plan, organize and direct a wide variety of activities and programs for individuals of all ages
• Ensure programs and activities are safe, fun, and appropriate for the target age group or audience
• Recruit, train, and supervise activity staff and volunteers
• Coordinate with other departments to ensure the successful execution of programs and events
• Promote activities and programs to community members and residents
• Assess the effectiveness of programs and identify areas for improvement
• Comply with health and safety regulations in all aspects of programming
• Manage the budget for programs and activities, ensuring cost-effectiveness
• Keep records of all planned and executed activities and participant feedback

 

Recreation and Activities Director Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a motivated and experienced Recreation and Activities Director to join our team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for planning, organizing, and executing a diverse range of activities and programs for all ages.

The Recreation and Activities Director will be expected to handle the logistics of these events, including scheduling, budgeting, and staff management.

An ideal candidate will have a creative mind and a passion for bringing people together through engaging activities and events.

 

Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and execute a variety of recreational activities and events
• Manage budgets for programs and events
• Recruit, train, and supervise staff and volunteers
• Promote and market activities to maximize participation
• Ensure safety regulations and procedures are adhered to
• Monitor the use of equipment and supplies, carry out routine checks and maintenance
• Evaluate program effectiveness and implement improvements as necessary
• Maintain records and prepare reports on activities, expenses, and equipment
• Develop partnerships with local organizations and businesses

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience in recreational program planning or related field
• Excellent organizational and leadership skills
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities
• Knowledge of budgeting, bookkeeping and reporting
• Experience in event promotion and marketing
• Knowledge of safety regulations and procedures
• Bachelor’s degree in recreation management, leisure studies or related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Opportunities for professional development

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Recreation and Activities Director
• Work Environment: This role typically works in a community center or similar facility. Some travel may be required for off-site activities and events.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the General Manager or Community Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $50,000 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 Recreation and Activities Director Do?

Recreation and Activities Directors typically work in settings such as schools, community centers, nursing homes, and resorts.

Their primary role is to plan, develop, and implement recreational and leisure activities that cater to the needs and interests of the individuals they serve.

They work closely with other staff members to organize events and oversee the daily operations of recreational facilities.

This might include scheduling activities, managing budgets, maintaining equipment, and ensuring the safety of participants.

Recreation and Activities Directors are also responsible for coordinating special events or programs, such as sports tournaments, arts and crafts activities, or wellness workshops.

They may also be tasked with hiring and training staff, as well as recruiting volunteers.

Their job involves interacting with diverse groups of people, including children, adults, and seniors, and adapting programs to meet their varying abilities and interests.

They also often liaise with families or caregivers to ensure activities meet the specific needs of individuals, particularly in healthcare or residential settings.

They also evaluate the success of their programs, obtaining feedback from participants and making necessary modifications to improve future activities.

This role often requires creativity, strong organizational skills, and a passion for promoting healthy, active lifestyles within their communities.

 

Recreation and Activities Director Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Recreation and Activities Director should possess a range of qualifications and skills that align with your job description, such as:

• Management and organizational skills to coordinate, schedule and supervise various recreational activities and events.
• Experience in planning and implementing a wide range of activities, both indoor and outdoor, that cater to all age groups and interests.
• Strong interpersonal skills to interact effectively with staff, participants, and the community, fostering a fun and inclusive environment.
• Excellent communication skills to listen to and understand the needs of participants, as well as clearly convey information about activities and events.
• Problem-solving skills to swiftly address and rectify issues or conflicts that may arise during the organization or execution of activities.
• Creativity and innovation to design unique and engaging recreational programs that appeal to a broad range of participants.
• Physical fitness to participate in recreational activities, demonstrating techniques and encouraging participation.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and emergency procedures to ensure a safe environment for all participants.

 

Recreation and Activities Director Experience Requirements

Recreation and Activities Directors are often required to have a bachelor’s degree in fields such as recreation management, leisure studies, or a similar discipline, where they gain comprehensive knowledge about recreational programs, management, and operations.

In addition to academic qualifications, entry-level candidates for this role typically need at least 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through internships, part-time roles, or volunteer work in recreation centers, summer camps, or community outreach programs.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience usually have had the opportunity to develop their skills in planning, coordinating, and implementing a variety of recreational activities and events.

They may have experience in roles such as Recreation Supervisor, Program Coordinator, or similar.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are likely to have substantial leadership experience, including overseeing staff, managing budgets, and developing strategic plans for recreation programs.

They may be ready to take on a senior or executive position in recreation management.

Certain roles may also require specific certifications, such as a Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) certification, which further demonstrates a candidate’s expertise and commitment to the field.

 

Recreation and Activities Director Education and Training Requirements

Recreation and Activities Directors typically have a bachelor’s degree in parks and recreation, leisure studies, or a related field.

Such programs often include courses in management, human behavior, event planning, and business, providing a well-rounded education for aspiring directors.

These courses cover the essentials of organizing and managing recreational programs and facilities.

In addition to a bachelor’s degree, many employers prefer candidates with previous experience in recreational programming or management.

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

A certification such as the Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) or the Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) can be beneficial in this field.

These certifications, offered by the National Recreation and Park Association and the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification respectively, demonstrate professional competence and commitment to the field.

Certain states may also require Recreation and Activities Directors to be licensed, particularly in roles related to healthcare such as senior living facilities.

Finally, these professionals need to have first aid and CPR certification, as they are often responsible for overseeing physical activities and ensuring safety.

Continuing education through seminars, workshops, or further certifications is encouraged to keep up-to-date with changes in the field.

 

Recreation and Activities Director Salary Expectations

A Recreation and Activities Director earns an average salary of $47,476 (USD) per year.

The actual income may change depending on factors such as experience, qualifications, location, and the nature of the employing organization.

 

Recreation and Activities Director Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Recreation and Activities Director need?

Recreation and Activities Directors need to possess excellent organizational and planning skills to develop and implement a variety of activities and programs.

They should also have strong leadership skills to oversee the staff and volunteers.

Effective communication and interpersonal skills are crucial to interact with different community members, while creativity is needed to design diverse, appealing, and inclusive activities.

 

Do Recreation and Activities Directors need a degree?

A degree is usually required for the role of a Recreation and Activities Director.

While a high school diploma may be sufficient for some entry-level positions, many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in fields such as recreation management, leisure studies, or a related area.

Furthermore, obtaining a Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) certification may provide an advantage.

 

What should you look for in a Recreation and Activities Director’s resume?

Look for a solid background in program planning and management in a Recreation and Activities Director’s resume.

They should have experience in organizing and facilitating various recreational activities.

Important skills to look for include leadership, communication, creativity, and budget management.

Certification in recreation management and prior experience in a similar role are also beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Recreation and Activities Director?

A good Recreation and Activities Director should be enthusiastic and passionate about community engagement and recreation.

They need to be creative to come up with engaging and diverse activities and should have strong leadership and management skills to lead their team effectively.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are also essential to interact with community members, staff, and volunteers.

 

What are the daily duties of a Recreation and Activities Director?

A Recreation and Activities Director’s daily duties generally include planning and coordinating various events and activities, overseeing staff and volunteers, managing budgets, and ensuring that all activities comply with safety regulations.

They may also need to interact with community members to get feedback on the programs, attend meetings, and perform administrative tasks.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you a sneak peek into the dynamic world of a Recreation and Activities Director.

And guess what?

It’s not just about organizing activities.

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

With our handy Recreation and Activities Director job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to step into this exciting role.

But why stop there?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate guide to creating precise job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every activity you plan is a part of a bigger journey.

Let’s create those unforgettable moments. Together.

How to Become a Recreation and Activities Director (Complete Guide)

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