Employment of recreation workers is expected to grow by 19 percent from 2010 to 2020, about as fast as the average for all occupations. The growth of fitness centers, sports centers, and camps specializing in younger participants is expected to increase demand for recreation workers, as more emphasis is placed on youth exercise to combat obesity. However, budget restrictions in state and local government might limit the number of jobs added to this occupation.
As baby boomers age and retire, they are encouraged to remain active to help combat injuries and illnesses associated with aging. Many of the new jobs for recreation workers will be in social assistance organizations and in nursing and residential care facilities.
Job prospects will be best for those seeking part-time, seasonal, or temporary recreation jobs. Because workers in these jobs tend to be students or young people, they must be replaced when they leave for school or jobs in other occupations, thus creating many job openings.
Workers with higher levels of formal education related to recreation should have better prospects at getting full-time positions. Volunteer experience, part-time work during school, and a summer job also are viewed favorably for both full- and part-time positions.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition