Recreation Program Supervisor

Career Guide

Plans and oversees community recreation programs and events, supervising staff and daily operations across facilities. Manages schedules, budgets, safety, and program quality while coordinating partners, facilities, and resources to deliver inclusive, high‑quality activities.

Browse All Roles

Key Responsibilities

Plan seasonal program calendars, schedules, and staffing
Supervise, train, and evaluate part-time and seasonal staff
Manage budgets, purchasing, and fee structures
Ensure safety, risk management, and incident reporting compliance
Oversee facility scheduling, permits, and equipment logistics
Coordinate community outreach, partnerships, and volunteers
Track enrollment, outcomes, and produce program reports

Career Progression

Can Lead To

Recreation Manager

Parks and Recreation Director

Community Services Manager

Transition Opportunities

Nonprofit Program Manager

Event Manager

Facility Manager

Volunteer Services Manager

Common Skill Gaps

Often Missing Skills

Recreation management software (ActiveNet/RecTrac)Budget development and revenue forecastingRisk management and incident reportingStaff coaching and corrective actionFacility scheduling and logistics coordination

Development SuggestionsComplete NRPA courses on risk management and program evaluation; volunteer or work seasonally as a lead/assistant supervisor to run a full program cycle and practice budgeting, scheduling, and reporting.

Market Intelligence Report

Recreation Program Supervisor is part of the Recreation & Leisure category.Explore our market intelligence report to see how AI and hiring demand are shifting for these roles.

See the market intelligence report

Salary & Demand

Median Salary Range

Entry Level$45,000-$55,000

Mid Level$55,000-$70,000

Senior Level$70,000-$90,000

Growth Trend

stable — Steady municipal and nonprofit hiring tied to local budgets and demand.

Companies Hiring

Major Employers

Municipal Parks & Recreation DepartmentsYMCABoys & Girls Clubs of America

Industry Sectors

Local GovernmentNon-Profit & Youth ServicesSports & Recreation

Recommended Next Steps

Earn the CPRP credential after meeting experience requirements to validate core competencies

Take NRPA Supervisors’ Management School or online courses in risk management and program evaluation

Lead a seasonal program end-to-end (planning, staffing, budget, reporting) and get hands-on with a system like ActiveNet or RecTrac