Recreation Workers
Recreation workers organize and lead activities such as sports, arts and crafts, music, games, and social events for groups in community centers, parks, camps, and other facilities. They design programs based on participants' interests and needs, manage schedules, and ensure activities run smoothly. Recreation workers typically work in public agencies, private organizations, or nonprofit settings.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against recreation workers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A recreation worker might spend mornings planning an afternoon sports tournament, contacting participants, and setting up equipment. Afternoons involve leading activities—coaching a youth soccer game, supervising a craft session, or organizing a community social event. Evenings may include staff meetings, program evaluation, or preparing materials for upcoming activities. Tasks vary by season and facility, mixing direct program leadership with behind-the-scenes coordination.
Who this work suits
Holland code SER. Social work is helping, teaching and working closely with people. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to enjoy working directly with people and building community engagement—social interests drive you. You also have enterprising instincts, taking initiative to promote programs and manage group dynamics. You thrive when balancing interpersonal connection with the organizational work needed to make activities successful.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $38,420 | $46,460 | $50,080 | 470 |
| Washington | $37,420 | $44,890 | $50,150 | 6,380 |
| South Dakota | $35,900 | $42,270 | $48,630 | 650 |
| Hawaii | $39,270 | $41,000 | $41,000 | 1,590 |
| California | $37,320 | $39,780 | $46,550 | 48,560 |
| Oregon | $35,620 | $39,610 | $47,780 | 4,640 |
| Colorado | $34,320 | $38,820 | $44,050 | 6,100 |
| Massachusetts | $36,040 | $38,540 | $45,010 | 11,280 |
| New York | $34,900 | $38,040 | $46,070 | 24,790 |
| Alaska | $36,950 | $37,510 | $47,410 | 630 |
| Minnesota | $33,220 | $37,510 | $44,770 | 7,940 |
| Maine | $32,650 | $37,450 | $46,400 | 1,260 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) — National Recreation and Park Association
- Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) — National Recreation and Park Association
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against recreation workers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 39-9032.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.