Recreation workers
SOC Code: 39-9032Also known as:
Activities Aide, Activities Assistant, Activities Associate, Activities Coordinator, Activities Counselor
Median Annual Salary
$35,380
+4.1% growth (2024-2034)
68K
Openings/Year
328K
Current Jobs
What Recreation workers Do
Conduct recreation activities with groups in public, private, or volunteer agencies or recreation facilities. Organize and promote activities, such as arts and crafts, sports, games, music, dramatics, social recreation, camping, and hobbies, taking into account the needs and interests of individual members.
💰 Salary
$35,380
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
+4.1%
Faster than average
🎓 Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
68K
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Short-term on-the-job training
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
327,700
Projected Employment (2034)
341,100
Related Careers
Entertainment and recreation managers, except gambling
$77,180 •
+7.7% growth
Social and community service managers
$78,240 •
+6.4% growth
Rehabilitation counselors
$46,110 •
+1.4% growth
Instructional coordinators
$74,720 •
+1.3% growth
Recreational therapists
$60,280 •
+3.3% growth
Top Skills Required
Active Listening
Speaking
Social Perceptiveness
Coordination
Service Orientation
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Enforce rules and regulations of recreational facilities to maintain discipline and ensure safety.
- Organize, lead, and promote interest in recreational activities, such as arts, crafts, sports, games, camping, and hobbies.
- Assess the needs and interests of individuals and groups and plan activities accordingly, given the available equipment or facilities.
- Manage the daily operations of recreational facilities.
- Administer first aid according to prescribed procedures and notify emergency medical personnel when necessary.
- Complete and maintain time and attendance forms and inventory lists.
- Explain principles, techniques, and safety procedures to participants in recreational activities and demonstrate use of materials and equipment.
- Direct special activities or events, such as aquatics, gymnastics, or performing arts.
- Supervise and coordinate the work activities of personnel, such as training staff members and assigning work duties.
- Evaluate recreation areas, facilities, and services to determine if they are producing desired results.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
Bachelor's Degree
O*NET recommended level
Degree Programs for Recreation workers
These degree programs can prepare you for a career as a recreation workers:
Outdoor Education
336 degrees awarded •
43 colleges offer this program
Best Colleges for Becoming a Recreation workers
Ranked by Repit grade, then by degrees in related programs. These are the top-rated colleges that prepare students to become recreation workers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do recreation workers make?
The median annual salary for recreation workers is $35,380.
What education do recreation workers need?
Most recreation workers positions require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Common degree programs include Outdoor Education.
Is becoming recreation workers a good career choice?
Recreation workers is projected to see +4.1% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which is about average for all occupations. With approximately 68,100 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for recreation workers?
Top colleges for aspiring recreation workers include
Salisbury University, Elon University, State University of New York at Cortland, Vermont State University, Central Michigan University.
These schools are ranked based on their Repit grade and the number of graduates in related programs.
What other job titles are similar to recreation workers?
Recreation workers may also be known as: Activities Aide, Activities Assistant, Activities Associate, Activities Coordinator, Activities Counselor, Activities Director, Activities Leader, Activity Aide, Activity Assistant, Activity Coordinator, Activity Director, Activity Leader, Activity Specialist, Camp Advisor, Camp Counselor, Camp Director, Community Program Assistant, Day Camp Counselor, Field Advisor, Field Representative.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.