Recreation Management
Within recreation management jobs you will perform a variety of outdoor assignments, which allow the public to safely access and enjoy special places, such as trails, campgrounds, rivers, and lakes. Common duties include clearing downed trees from hiking trails, cleaning campground facilities and providing information about recreational opportunities. This commonly includes specialties in general recreation, trails, and wilderness. You may expand to applying innovative solutions to solve outdoor recreation problems or implementing complex projects.
Industry Insights
A high-level pulse check on talent demand, projected growth, compensation, and how work typically happens across this pathway.
Estimated employment nationwide in 2024
Projected change in employment through 2034
Mid-career annual salary (nationwide median)
How the work is typically performed
Peak demand and work cadence
Career Pathways & Progression
Position Responsibilities
Entry‑level roles involve direct interaction with participants and visitors, assisting with program delivery, facility operations and customer service while learning the basics of recreation programming and risk management.
Job Types & Titles
- Recreation Assistant
- Camp Counselor
- Lifeguard
- Front Desk Attendant
- Program Aide
Qualifications Snapshot
Education
High school diploma or some college coursework in recreation, leisure studies or a related field.
Certifications
Basic First Aid/CPR/AED certification is highly recommended.
Experience
Experience can include part‑time or seasonal employment, volunteer work in parks and recreation, youth camps or community sports.
Position Responsibilities
Technicians and coordinators support program planning and facility operations. They may lead activities, manage equipment, coordinate volunteers and enforce safety protocols.
Job Types & Titles
- Recreation Technician
- Park Ranger
- Facility Coordinator
- Adventure Program Leader
Qualifications Snapshot
Education
Associate degree or Bachelor’s degree in Parks, Recreation & Tourism Management or a related field.
Certifications
Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) eligibility, Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) for playground positions, and Wilderness First Aid depending on the role.
Experience
1‑3 years of experience in recreation programming, park operations, outdoor education or facility management.
Position Responsibilities
Professional-level roles manage programs, budgets and staff, coordinate events, develop policies and collaborate with community partners. They oversee facility operations and ensure compliance with safety and accessibility standards.
Job Types & Titles
- Recreation Program Manager
- Event Planner
- Park Manager
- Tourism Coordinator
- Youth & Community Recreation Director
Qualifications Snapshot
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Parks, Recreation & Tourism Management, Recreation Administration, Hospitality or related field; graduate coursework can enhance advancement.
Certifications
CPRP certification is common; CPSI for facilities work; specialized certificates such as the Aquatic Management Professional Certificate or Parks & Recreation Marketing Certificate.
Experience
3‑5 years of progressively responsible experience, including supervising staff and managing budgets and programs.
Position Responsibilities
Senior managers and directors provide strategic leadership for agencies, departments or large facilities. They oversee budgets, policy development, community engagement, long‑range planning, and advocacy for parks and recreation at the municipal, state or federal level.
Job Types & Titles
- Director of Parks & Recreation
- Recreation Center Director
- Regional Park Administrator
- Resort General Manager
- Consulting Project Manager
Qualifications Snapshot
Education
Bachelor’s degree with significant experience is required; Master’s degree in Recreation Management, Public Administration or Business is often preferred.
Certifications
Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE); CPRP; advanced leadership certificates (Equity in Practice, Maintenance Management School).
Experience
5‑10+ years of managerial experience in parks and recreation, including budgeting, policy development, staff supervision and interagency collaboration.
Who Hires Recreation Management Professionals?
Explore leading organizations in this field and discover career opportunities.
National Park Service (U.S. Department of the Interior)
U.S. Forest Service
California State Parks
Lexington Parks & Recreation (City of Lexington, KY)
YMCA of the USA
REI Co‑op
PROS Consulting Inc.
BerryDunn
Navajo Nation Parks & Recreation
University Campus Recreation Departments (e.g., Appalachian State University Recreation Management Program)
Education & Certification
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Jobs in Recreation Management
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