Recreation Workers

The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) predicts that employment opportunities for recreation workers will increase by 8 percent through 2028, or faster than 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. "Additional recreation workers are expected to be needed to work for fitness and recreational sports centers, youth centers, sports clubs, and other for- and not-for-profit organizations because some parks and recreation departments may seek to cut costs by contracting out the services of activity specialists," the DOL explains.

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.