Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Recreation Manager
What recreation managers actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for a recreation manager?
Check registrations. From there, the day usually includes plan programs, manage facilities, and hire and train staff. Full time, with evenings, weekends and busy summers.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a recreation manager working full time.
- Check registrations.
- Meet camp staff.
- Inspect the pool.
- Plan a fall league.
- Review the budget.
- Meet a neighborhood group.
- Attend a council meeting.
Where recreation managers work
Managers work at parks, community centers, pools and offices.
Hours and schedule
Full time, with evenings, weekends and busy summers.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Plan programs
- Manage facilities
- Hire and train staff
- Manage budgets
- Ensure safety
- Market programs
- Work with community groups
Tools you’ll use every day
- Registration software
- Scheduling tools
- Budget software
- Social media
- Maintenance systems
- Radios
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Faster-than-average growth
- Community impact
- Active environment
- Public benefits
What’s hard
- Evenings and weekends
- Seasonal rushes
- Budget limits
- Staffing teens
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I love recreation and sports
- I like planning events
- I like community work
- I can lead staff
- I don’t mind weekends
- I want growing work
Not sure? Take the free Recreation Manager fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Maintain staff ratios
- Inspect facilities
- Train on emergencies
- Follow aquatic safety