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Recreation Workers
Description OES Code: 27311
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.

Wages, California
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $6.77
25th Percentile $7.34
50th Percentile $8.85
75th Percentile $10.91

Wages, San Joaquin
Entry-Level Hourly Wage $6.70
25th Percentile $7.31
50th Percentile $9.16
75th Percentile $10.72

Wages by California County
• OES Survey
• CCOIS Survey

Hours & Benefits
Many recreation jobs are part time and for irregular hours. Workers may work days, evenings or weekends. Fringe benefits for full-time workers typically include vacation, sick leave, health insurance, and retirement plans.

Employment Trends, California
Employment 1998 36,900
Projected Employment 2008 44,500
Percent Change 1998-2008 20.6%
Separations 1998-2008 10,800

Employment Trends, San Joaquin County
Employment 1999 300
Projected Employment 2006 340
Percent Change 1999-2006 13.3%
Separations 1999-2006 60

Employment Trends by California County

Working Conditions
The surroundings of Recreation Workers vary. Some Recreation Workers work indoors in a gymnasium or a recreation room. Others work outdoors in places such as playgrounds or campsites. Since most spend a lot of time outdoors, they are subject to weather conditions. Recreation Workers should be in good physical shape and are responsible for the safety and discipline of participants. Recreation Leaders and Supervisors usually spend much more time in an office setting.

Advancement
Qualified Recreation Workers can become Recreation Supervisors as openings occur. Administrative opportunities may be available for qualified Recreation Supervisors and Therapists.

Getting the Job & Other Information
Because of the surplus of Recreation Workers in some areas, jobs may be difficult to find. Those who develop expertise in a particular craft or sport while still in school will have an advantage when seeking work. Employers may promote qualified part-time Recreation Workers to full-time positions when vacancies occur. Accepting a part-time or seasonal position may eventually lead to full-time employment. Many employers fill positions with student interns.

Often employers will contact college recreation departments or college placement offices. Local government agencies publish announcements of the job openings. State hospitals must be contacted individually to learn of vacancies. State Personnel Board offices keep information on vacancies with the Department of the Youth Authority. Federal jobs are listed with the nearest federal Office of Personnel Management. Some employers recruit through newspaper classified ads. Since many positions are filled through informal communication, it is very important to be active in the field and to know people working in it.

For a list of current job listings, browse CalJOBS or America's Job Bank.

Education and Training
Full-time Recreation Worker and supervisory jobs require a Bachelor's degree in parks and recreation or leisure studies. A master's degree may be required for administrative positions. Specialized training or experience in a particular field, such as art, music, drama, or athletics, is an asset for many jobs. Some recreation jobs require certificates, such as a life-saving certificate if teaching water-related programs. Graduates of two-year Associate of Arts (AA) programs in recreation can enter some career positions, but usually only work part time. Most hospitals require a Bachelor's degree with specialization in therapeutic recreation for Recreation Therapist jobs.

Although it is not generally required, possession of a certificate of competence granted by the California Park and Recreation Society can help an applicant secure employment. A Bachelor's degree in recreation and successful completion of an examination are minimum requirements for certification. Student membership in this organization can be advantageous in preparing for a professional career.

Preparation should begin early. Participation and leadership experience in Scouting, 4-H Clubs or neighborhood center activities (YWCA and YMCA) provides valuable skills and experience. Many community colleges offer an AA degree in Recreation Leadership or in the specialty of Recreation Therapy. Many state universities and colleges offer a Bachelor's degree in Recreation Administration. To find these courses, contact colleges or universities directly. The local public library may keep college catalogues on file.

Skills & Other Requirements
Individuals planning careers in recreation should be outgoing, good at motivating people, sensitive to the needs of others and possess good health and physical stamina. Activity planning requires creativity and resourcefulness. Willingness to accept responsibility and the ability to exercise good judgment are also essential qualities. Individuals interested in supervisory positions should develop managerial skills.

References
California Occupational Guide #357

Related Occupations: Social Workers, Occupational Therapists, Park Rangers

Training: California Training and Education Providers (CTEP)