Recreation Workers

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) predicts that employment opportunities for recreation workers will increase by 5 percent from 2023 through 2033, or about as fast as the average for all occupations. The expected expansion in the recreation field will result from increased leisure time and income for the population as a whole, along with a continuing interest in fitness and health. As the baby-boom generation continues to age, the growing elderly population will create demand in nursing homes, senior centers, and retirement communities. There is also a demand for recreation workers to conduct activity programs for special needs groups.

Recreation programs that depend on government funding are most affected in times of economic downturns when budgets are reduced. This means that competition will increase significantly for jobs in the private sector.

An increased emphasis on the importance of lifelong well-being is expected to create demand for recreation workers in a variety of settings, including fitness and recreational sports centers, country clubs, and other organizations. Parks and recreation departments may contract out the services of activity specialists. In addition, there will be more demand for recreation workers to work with older clients, especially in continuing care retirement communities and assisted living facilities.

Opportunities for staff positions will be best for individuals who have formal training in recreation and for those with previous experience. Those with graduate degrees will have the best opportunities for administrative or supervisory positions.