There are several paths to a career in recreation. Part-time employment makes up a large portion of recreation jobs and provides opportunities to learn new skills and network. A wide range of businesses can provide opportunities for someone interested in working in recreation. Management positions in parks and other recreation facilities are available. Many jobs in recreation necessitate physical fitness, an outgoing personality, and the ability to influence others, and some may even necessitate a college diploma.
Approximately 40% of recreation jobs are part-time or seasonal. Jobs as a counselor at a summer camp are a good example. A summer camp counselor is in charge of guiding children through activities such as camping, swimming, hiking, and sports. Arts and crafts or performing arts are taught by some camp counselors. Weekend and after-school program facilitators and instructors are two other part-time recreation jobs. These positions provide an opportunity to learn about the recreation industry, gain valuable skills, and make connections that could lead to a full-time position.
Local governments frequently have parks that serve as the focal point for recreational activities for residents. Administrative staff as well as activities specialists who facilitate or instruct activities such as swimming, art, music, or drama may be required to manage the programs. Activity specialists can also work in places like nursing homes, senior centers, and tourist and amusement parks. To become an activity specialist, knowledge and experience in a key area such as art or music are usually required. In this field, a college diploma is not always required to work as a recreation worker.
Those interested in becoming a recreation worker and pursuing a supervisory career should consider working for a corporation. Some companies provide recreational programs to their employees in order to foster team spirit and boost morale. These programs frequently require supervision. Employees’ recreational activities could include bowling or sports leagues. To work as a recreation worker in a corporate setting, you’ll usually need a bachelor’s degree in recreation and some business experience.
Camp directors and parks and recreation directors are two other supervisory positions in the recreation industry. Camp directors are in charge of running the camp and supervising the counselors. Park and recreation directors are typically responsible for overseeing the administration of all recreational activities in parks and playgrounds, as well as budget management. A bachelor’s degree in parks and recreation or leisure studies may be required for jobs in recreation management.