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Posted August 09, 2026

Director of Recreation

The Plaza at Clover Lake
Carmel, NY, US Full Time

Job Description

Job Description

The Director of Recreation is responsible for planning, organizing, implementing, and evaluating a comprehensive, resident-centered recreation program designed to enhance the physical, emotional, social, cognitive, cultural, and spiritual well-being of residents. The Director oversees daily recreational activities, special events, volunteer services, religious programming, and community partnerships while ensuring compliance with all applicable federal, state, and facility regulations.

The Director of Recreation will work collaboratively with residents, families, interdisciplinary staff, volunteers, and community organizations to provide meaningful and engaging programs that promote the highest quality of life for all residents.


General Responsibilities
  • Develop, implement, and oversee a comprehensive recreation program that meets the diverse interests and needs of residents.
  • Meet with newly admitted residents to assess recreational interests, hobbies, preferences, and abilities.
  • Develop individualized activity plans based on resident assessments.
  • Prepare and publish monthly activity calendars.
  • Coordinate and supervise daily recreational programming.
  • Plan and oversee holiday celebrations, seasonal events, birthday parties, entertainment, and special community events.
  • Coordinate and schedule religious services and spiritual programming.
  • Recruit, train, schedule, and supervise volunteers.
  • Establish relationships with schools, community organizations, entertainers, religious groups, and outside agencies to enhance resident programming.
  • Supervise recreation staff and ensure appropriate scheduling and coverage.
  • Maintain departmental budgets and monitor expenditures.
  • Maintain activity documentation and resident participation records.
  • Ensure activity supplies and equipment are available and properly maintained.
  • Participate in care planning meetings and interdisciplinary team meetings.
  • Promote resident independence, dignity, and quality of life.
  • Ensure compliance with all Department of Health regulations and facility policies.
  • Respond professionally to resident and family concerns.
  • Maintain confidentiality of resident information.
  • Perform quality assurance activities and evaluate program effectiveness.
  • Attend required meetings, trainings, and continuing education.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the Administrator or Executive Management.

Position Requirements
  • Must be at least 21 years of age.
  • Associate's Degree from an accredited college or university in Recreation Therapy, Recreation Management, Human Services, Gerontology, or a related field; Bachelor's Degree preferred.

OR

  • Minimum of two (2) years of full-time experience in recreation programming with an adult dependent population.

The successful candidate must:

  • Demonstrate excellent leadership and organizational skills.
  • Possess strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Be proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and other applicable software.
  • Be able to prioritize multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Demonstrate sound judgment and problem-solving abilities.
  • Work effectively with residents, families, staff, volunteers, physicians, and regulatory agencies.
  • Lead by example through professionalism, punctuality, accountability, and teamwork.
  • Be able to lift up to 25 pounds and participate in recreational activities as needed.

Compensation

Position: Director of Recreation

Employment Status: Full-Time, Exempt

Annual Salary: $60,000

Salary is paid in accordance with the facility's payroll schedule and is subject to applicable federal, state, and local tax withholdings.


Benefits

Eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefits package that may include:

  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • Short-Term Disability (where applicable)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with employer participation, subject to plan eligibility and company policy
  • Continuing education and professional development opportunities

Benefits are subject to eligibility requirements and may change in accordance with company policy.


Paid Time Off

Eligible full-time employees receive paid time off in accordance with company policy.

This includes:

  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Sick
  • Paid Vacation

Vacation and sick leave accruals are administered in accordance with company policy and applicable state and federal laws.


Work Schedule
  • Full-Time
  • Monday through Friday, with flexibility based on facility needs.
  • Evening, weekend, and holiday coverage may be required for special events or resident activities.

Physical Requirements

The Director of Recreation must be able to:

  • Walk throughout the facility for extended periods.
  • Stand for prolonged periods during activities and events.
  • Lift, carry, push, or pull activity supplies up to 25 pounds.
  • Assist residents during recreational activities as appropriate.
  • Operate standard office equipment and computers.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The Facility is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.

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