How to become recreation workerseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter
Median annual pay
$36,560
25th–75th pct. $31,780–$43,470
Top pay (est.)
$65,500
Top 10% $50,410
Pay in 5 years
$42,500est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$49,500est.
$42,600–$57,500
Outlook score
58/100
★★★☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
42%
Moderate
Job growth (10 yr)
+4.3%
67K openings / yr
How to become recreation workers
Typical education
High school diploma or equivalent
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
Short-term on-the-job training
A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.
Skills, education and requirements for Recreation Workers
Key skills
O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).
Key knowledge areas
What the work involves
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkEstablishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsScheduling Work and ActivitiesUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeGetting InformationMonitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsThinking CreativelyResolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others
Important abilities
Oral ExpressionOral ComprehensionOriginalityNear VisionSpeech ClarityDeductive Reasoning
Education of workers
Training before entry
Related work experience
Job Zone 4 — considerable preparation needed (O*NET)
Difficulty of entry: ★★★☆☆ Moderate (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)
Career path and how to earn more as recreation workers
Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.
Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.