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Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling

SOC 11-9072.00Job Zone 4 · Considerable Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers the management of recreational and entertainment programs — including activity planning, budgeting, staffing, customer communication, and regulatory compliance — within Job Zone 4 facility-based and community recreation environments.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Group activity schedules — organize and distribute under supervisor guidance within a recreational facility setting.
  2. Customer communications — convey basic event and activity information to guests using approved scripts at a front-facing recreation center.
  3. Facility rules and regulations — explain safety guidelines and usage policies to customers at an entertainment or recreation venue under direct supervision.
  4. Electronic communication tools — use computers, instant messaging software, and two-way radios to relay information to coworkers during daily operations.
  5. Program calendars — assist in drafting schedules of activities using project management or presentation software under manager direction.
  6. Department expense records — record basic revenue and expenditure data into a database system under the guidance of a senior manager.
  7. Staff interview processes — participate in candidate screening and assist with structured interviews for recreational staff vacancies under supervision.
  8. Customer service interactions — apply active listening and social perceptiveness to address guest inquiries and concerns at a recreation or entertainment facility.
  9. Activity logistics — support the setup and coordination of group events such as fitness classes or arts and crafts sessions with direction from lead staff.
  10. Recreational software platforms — navigate human resources and document management software to complete assigned administrative tasks in an office or facility environment.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Group activity programs — plan and lead exercise routines, athletic events, and arts and crafts sessions for diverse customer groups with minimal oversight at a mid-sized recreation facility.
  2. Event schedules — develop weekly or monthly programs of activities using project management software, adapting plans to participant needs and facility availability.
  3. Departmental budgets — write and monitor budgets for recreational programs, tracking planned versus actual expenses using database and spreadsheet tools.
  4. Staff recruitment — conduct interviews, evaluate candidates, and recommend hires to fill recreational staff vacancies in alignment with facility standards.
  5. Revenue and expense reporting — calculate, record, and reconcile department financial data on a regular cycle, identifying discrepancies for management review.
  6. Customer engagement — proactively communicate program details, schedule changes, and activity benefits to guests through verbal, written, and digital channels at an entertainment venue.
  7. Team coordination — assign and adjust daily staff duties using scheduling and instant messaging tools to maintain smooth operations across a recreation department.
  8. Regulatory compliance — routinely explain and enforce facility rules, safety protocols, and public security regulations to customers and frontline staff.
  9. Problem resolution — apply critical thinking and judgment to resolve non-standard customer complaints or operational issues within established policies.
  10. Training delivery — instruct new team members on activity facilitation techniques, service standards, and technology tools used in recreational program management.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Full program portfolio — autonomously design, implement, and evaluate a comprehensive calendar of recreational and entertainment programs aligned with organizational goals and community demographics.
  2. Strategic budget management — develop, defend, and manage multi-program budgets, forecasting revenue streams and controlling expenditures across an entire recreation department.
  3. Complex staffing decisions — lead the full hiring cycle including job analysis, interviewing, selection, and onboarding for diverse recreational staff roles without supervisory approval at each step.
  4. Cross-functional coordination — orchestrate collaboration between programming, facilities, marketing, and finance teams using cloud-based sharing and project management platforms to deliver large-scale events.
  5. Non-routine customer challenges — apply inductive reasoning and problem sensitivity to resolve unusual guest conflicts, accessibility needs, or safety incidents at an entertainment or recreation venue.
  6. Financial performance analysis — analyze department revenue and expense trends, prepare detailed reports for senior leadership, and recommend data-driven adjustments to programming investments.
  7. Policy and regulatory expertise — interpret and apply public safety, liability, and organizational regulations across all programs, ensuring consistent compliance throughout the facility.
  8. Staff performance management — conduct evaluations, deliver constructive feedback, and implement development plans to elevate team performance within a recreation management context.
  9. Stakeholder communication — craft and deliver formal presentations, proposals, and written reports to internal leadership and external partners using presentation and document management software.
  10. Active learning application — continuously incorporate emerging industry trends, technology tools, and participant feedback to innovate and refine recreational programming offerings.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Organizational strategy — set the long-term vision, mission, and strategic priorities for an entertainment and recreation division, aligning programs with enterprise-wide goals and community needs.
  2. Executive budget authority — lead the creation and approval of multi-year capital and operating budgets across all recreation and entertainment departments, balancing fiscal responsibility with program growth.
  3. Workforce leadership — direct the recruitment, development, and retention strategy for a large recreation management team, building organizational capability and succession pipelines.
  4. Institutional partnerships — negotiate contracts, sponsorships, and collaborative agreements with external vendors, community organizations, and government agencies to expand recreational program reach.
  5. Culture and service excellence — champion a department-wide service orientation culture, modeling optimism and social orientation to elevate guest experience standards across all venues and programs.
  6. Complex problem governance — establish decision-making frameworks and escalation protocols that empower managers to resolve operational and customer challenges effectively at every level of the organization.
  7. Technology and innovation leadership — direct the adoption and integration of emerging management, communication, and training technologies to modernize recreation operations at an organizational scale.
  8. Cross-sector influence — represent the organization at industry conferences, public forums, and regulatory bodies, shaping policy discussions related to entertainment, recreation, and community wellness.
  9. Performance metrics and accountability — design and oversee organizational key performance indicators for programming quality, financial health, and customer satisfaction, reporting outcomes to executive leadership and boards.
  10. Mentorship and knowledge transfer — develop and lead formal mentoring programs and leadership academies that build the next generation of entertainment and recreation managers across the organization.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. AI-assisted scheduling — uses an AI tool to generate draft programs of events or activity calendars, then reviews and adjusts timing and logistics by hand.
  2. Budget drafting support — prompts an AI assistant to produce a first-pass recreational program budget template, checking figures against actual facility costs before submission.
Developing
  1. Staff communications drafting — directs an AI tool to compose routine messages and announcements for coworkers and customers across electronic channels, editing for tone and accuracy before sending.
  2. Activity planning research — queries an AI assistant for ideas and benchmarks when designing new group exercise routines or arts-and-crafts programming, applying personal knowledge of the customer base to filter and refine suggestions Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  3. Job posting generation — uses an AI tool to draft position descriptions for staff vacancies, then adjusts requirements and language to reflect the specific facility culture and legal obligations.
Proficient
  1. Program evaluation synthesis — directs an AI assistant to analyze participant feedback or attendance data and surface patterns, then applies critical thinking and social perceptiveness to translate findings into scheduling decisions Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Budget scenario modeling — tasks an AI tool with running multiple cost scenarios for competing recreational programs, retaining authority over final budget commitments and trade-off judgments.
  3. Coordinated event briefing — uses AI-generated run-of-show documents as a structured starting point for team coordination meetings, adding site-specific contingencies and real-time adjustments Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  4. Speaking preparation — employs an AI tool to outline key talking points for staff briefings or community presentations, then delivers the communication personally, adapting live to audience reactions Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. Strategic program portfolio design — orchestrates an AI assistant through multi-step research, competitive benchmarking, and draft proposal generation for a full seasonal programming portfolio, retaining authorship of the guest-experience vision and final approval Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Hiring pipeline optimization — integrates AI screening summaries of candidate materials into the interview process, calibrating the tool's criteria against the facility's evolving staffing needs and exercising independent judgment on culture fit and role suitability WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. Cross-functional AI workflow governance — establishes team norms for when AI-generated content (schedules, budgets, communications) requires human review versus direct use, ensuring staff maintain active listening and social-perceptiveness skills rather than deferring to automated outputs Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Speaking
Score: 48.5 / 100
Quadrant: Q2_ai_augmented
precision: exact
WEF cluster
Human-Technology Interaction
human_technology_interaction
Sources:Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication10 statements
Emerging
  1. Customer information delivery — conveys basic event schedules and facility rules to guests through face-to-face interaction using clear, accessible language Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Staff radio communication — relays simple operational messages to coworkers via electronic devices such as radios and computers during routine program hours O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Program promotion communication — explains upcoming recreational activities and special events to customers through verbal and written channels, adjusting tone for diverse audiences Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Incident explanation — communicates safety rules, regulations, and emergency procedures to guests and staff across indoor and outdoor facility environments O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Written budget documentation — drafts clear budget narratives and program descriptions to support departmental planning and reporting processes O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Cross-functional briefing — delivers structured activity briefings and operational updates to staff teams before and during scheduled events, ensuring alignment and guest readiness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Guest conflict communication — addresses customer complaints and service concerns through empathetic, solution-focused dialogue that preserves guest satisfaction and facility reputation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Regulatory communication — interprets and communicates compliance requirements, facility policies, and safety standards to staff and guests with clarity and authority O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Organizational spokesperson — represents the entertainment or recreation department in external stakeholder meetings, community events, and media interactions, articulating program value with persuasive precision Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Communication system design — establishes department-wide communication protocols for staff, vendors, and guests that reduce operational gaps and elevate service consistency across all program types Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
2Leadership10 statements
Emerging
  1. Activity facilitation — leads small-group recreational activities such as exercise routines or arts and crafts under supervision, modeling enthusiasm and basic participant engagement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Staff direction — provides entry-level guidance to recreation staff during assigned shifts, following established schedules and supervisor instructions O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Team coordination — organizes and directs recreation staff across concurrent programs, assigning roles and clarifying responsibilities to ensure smooth event execution Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Hiring participation — conducts structured interviews and evaluates candidates for recreation staff vacancies, contributing to informed hiring decisions O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Accountability modeling — holds self and direct reports to performance standards and service expectations, addressing gaps through timely feedback and corrective coaching Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Department leadership — manages full recreation or entertainment department operations including staffing, scheduling, budgeting, and program delivery, driving consistent outcomes across seasons Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Staff development — identifies individual staff strengths and growth areas, designing on-the-job learning opportunities that build team capability and reduce turnover Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Crisis leadership — takes decisive charge during facility emergencies, equipment failures, or weather disruptions, directing staff and communicating with guests to maintain safety and order Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Organizational vision — champions a compelling recreation or entertainment program vision that aligns staff motivation, guest experience goals, and organizational strategy across multiple facilities or program lines Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Leadership pipeline — mentors emerging recreation supervisors and program leads, systematically building the next generation of management talent within the department Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition8 statements
Emerging
  1. Self-monitoring in facilitation — recognizes when a group activity is losing participant engagement and pauses to assess personal approach before adjusting delivery Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Learning awareness — identifies gaps in knowledge of facility regulations or program planning processes and seeks clarification from supervisors or reference materials Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Performance reflection — reviews completed events or program cycles to evaluate personal decision-making, identifying what worked and what to adjust in future planning Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Feedback integration — actively solicits guest and staff feedback after programs, analyzes patterns, and applies insights to refine personal management approach Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Strategic self-assessment — evaluates own leadership and operational style against department performance metrics, adjusting budget management or scheduling approaches based on evidence-based reflection Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cognitive load management — recognizes when simultaneous program demands exceed effective attention capacity and restructures workload delegation to maintain decision quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Reflective practice modeling — embeds structured after-action reviews into department culture, teaching staff to examine their own thinking and decision-making processes following major events Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Adaptive learning leadership — continuously evaluates the effectiveness of own management frameworks against industry trends and guest satisfaction data, proactively evolving personal and team operating models Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking10 statements
Emerging
  1. Safety rule analysis — evaluates guest situations against established facility rules and regulations to determine appropriate responses during standard recreational operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Schedule problem identification — identifies scheduling conflicts or resource gaps in activity programs before they escalate into operational disruptions O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Budget variance analysis — examines departmental expense and revenue records to identify spending patterns, anomalies, and opportunities for cost efficiency Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Program feasibility evaluation — assesses proposed recreational activities against available staffing, equipment, space, and participant demand before committing resources to planning Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Vendor and supplier assessment — evaluates proposals and contracts for entertainment services, equipment, or facilities by weighing cost, quality, and alignment with program objectives Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Incident root-cause analysis — investigates guest complaints, safety incidents, or program failures by systematically examining contributing factors and separating symptoms from underlying causes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Staffing decision analysis — weighs candidate qualifications, team dynamics, budget constraints, and program needs when making hiring and scheduling decisions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Regulatory compliance reasoning — interprets ambiguous public safety and facility regulations, applying logical judgment to determine compliant operational practices in novel situations O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Strategic program evaluation — synthesizes guest participation data, financial performance, staff capacity, and competitive market trends to critically assess and redesign the full recreation or entertainment portfolio Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Risk-benefit reasoning — conducts rigorous analysis of new program concepts or facility expansions, evaluating assumptions, anticipating second-order consequences, and presenting evidence-based recommendations to senior leadership Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration10 statements
Emerging
  1. Co-facilitation — works alongside fellow recreation staff to co-lead group activities, contributing assigned tasks while supporting teammates in delivering a unified guest experience Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-shift coordination — shares relevant program and guest information with incoming staff at shift transitions to maintain continuity of recreational operations O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Interdepartmental coordination — collaborates with food service, facilities, and marketing teams to align resources and timing for special events and seasonal programs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Vendor partnership — works jointly with external entertainment contractors and service providers, aligning expectations and dividing responsibilities to deliver cohesive guest experiences O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Team problem-solving — engages staff in collaborative troubleshooting during operational challenges, drawing on diverse perspectives to identify practical solutions quickly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Multi-team event execution — orchestrates collaboration across multiple internal departments and external partners to deliver large-scale athletic events or entertainment programs with defined roles and accountability Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Conflict navigation — mediates disagreements between recreation staff members or between departments, facilitating resolution that preserves working relationships and program momentum Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Community partnership development — builds ongoing collaborative relationships with local schools, community organizations, and sponsors to expand recreational programming reach and resources O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Collaborative culture building — establishes department norms and rituals that make cross-functional teamwork, information sharing, and mutual accountability the standard operating mode across all recreation programs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Strategic alliance leadership — leads collaborative initiatives with external organizations, government bodies, or facility networks to co-develop innovative entertainment or recreation programming at scale Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
6Character10 statements
Emerging
  1. Inclusive conduct — treats all guests and staff equitably regardless of age, ability, or background during recreational activities, modeling respectful behavior consistently Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Financial honesty — accurately records all department expenses and revenues without omission or manipulation, maintaining integrity in routine financial tracking Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Accountability in operations — acknowledges personal scheduling or planning errors transparently, corrects them promptly, and communicates impact to affected staff and guests Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Ethical staffing conduct — applies consistent, unbiased criteria during hiring interviews and staff evaluations, avoiding favoritism in recreation workforce decisions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Guest safety prioritization — upholds public safety and security standards even when doing so conflicts with guest preferences or short-term program convenience O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Ethical program management — maintains transparent budget practices, equitable resource allocation, and honest communication with organizational leadership regarding program performance and constraints Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional conduct under pressure — sustains composure, fairness, and respectful behavior during high-traffic events, guest disputes, or operational crises where integrity is most visible Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Confidentiality stewardship — protects sensitive staff personnel information and guest data with discretion, handling it in compliance with organizational and legal standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical culture leadership — actively shapes a department culture where integrity, transparency, and accountability are visible in daily operations and modeled at every level of the recreation team Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Values-based decision-making — navigates complex ethical dilemmas—such as balancing commercial pressures against guest safety or staff welfare—with principled reasoning and organizational responsibility Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
7Creativity10 statements
Emerging
  1. Activity ideation — proposes fresh variations on standard recreational activities such as themed exercise classes or novel arts and crafts formats to increase guest engagement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Program decoration and theming — applies creative visual and experiential elements to event spaces to elevate the atmosphere of scheduled recreational activities Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. New program concept development — designs original recreational or entertainment program concepts that address underserved guest segments or seasonal participation gaps Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Resourceful problem-solving — devises inventive workarounds when equipment, space, or staffing shortfalls threaten planned activities, maintaining program quality under constraints Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Promotional creativity — creates engaging written and visual promotional content for upcoming events that stands out and motivates guest participation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Signature programming — develops distinctive, branded recreational experiences that differentiate the facility from competitors and generate sustained guest loyalty Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-disciplinary program design — integrates arts, athletics, education, and social elements into hybrid program formats that serve diverse guest interests within a single event structure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Budget-creative innovation — invents high-impact program enhancements that maximize guest experience within tight financial parameters through imaginative resource use Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Innovation leadership — pilots experimental entertainment or recreation concepts, builds feedback loops to assess their impact, and scales successful innovations into permanent department offerings Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Industry-leading program architecture — creates groundbreaking recreational or entertainment formats that influence industry practices and position the organization as a model for peer facilities Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset10 statements
Emerging
  1. Openness to correction — accepts feedback from supervisors about activity facilitation or guest service delivery without defensiveness, applying suggestions in the next program cycle Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Skill gap acknowledgment — identifies personal knowledge gaps in areas such as budget management or safety regulations and pursues available training resources Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Challenge acceptance — volunteers to manage more complex events or larger participant groups than previously handled, treating increased responsibility as a development opportunity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Learning from program setbacks — analyzes poorly attended or operationally troubled events to extract actionable lessons rather than attributing failure to external factors alone Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Industry knowledge pursuit — proactively stays current on recreational programming trends, new fitness formats, and entertainment technologies to continuously expand professional expertise O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Iterative program improvement — establishes systematic cycles of planning, execution, evaluation, and refinement for recurring recreational programs, treating each iteration as an improvement opportunity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Staff growth investment — coaches team members to view operational mistakes as learning events, building a department culture where effort and experimentation are recognized and rewarded Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Certification and credential pursuit — actively seeks advanced management, recreation, or safety certifications to deepen expertise and expand professional capability Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Organizational learning culture — institutionalizes growth mindset practices across the full recreation department through after-action reviews, peer coaching programs, and public recognition of learning behaviors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Transformational resilience — rebounds from significant organizational setbacks—such as facility closures, budget cuts, or public incidents—by reframing adversity as a catalyst for bold program reinvention Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness10 statements
Emerging
  1. Present-moment facilitation — maintains focused, undistracted attention on participant needs and group dynamics while leading recreational activities rather than multitasking administrative duties Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotional awareness — recognizes personal stress responses during high-volume event periods and applies basic self-regulation techniques to maintain professional composure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Attentive guest interaction — gives full, undivided attention to guests who approach with questions or concerns during busy recreational programming, signaling that their needs are prioritized Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Proactive environment scanning — regularly observes facility conditions, guest behavior, and staff dynamics with deliberate attention to detect early signals of safety or service concerns Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Intentional communication — pauses before responding to guest complaints or staff conflicts, ensuring responses are thoughtful rather than reactive during high-tension interactions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Regulated leadership presence — maintains a calm, grounded presence during chaotic event conditions—such as equipment failure or crowd management challenges—that stabilizes staff and reassures guests Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Decision-making intentionality — resists impulsive reactions to unexpected operational disruptions, pausing to assess available information before committing to a course of action Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Staff wellbeing attentiveness — monitors staff energy levels, stress signals, and engagement during extended event days, intervening with support before burnout or errors occur Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Mindful organizational culture — models and teaches present-moment awareness and emotional regulation practices to recreation staff, embedding mindfulness into the department's approach to guest service and team wellness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Systemic attention design — structures event schedules, staff rotations, and operational workflows with deliberate attention to human attention limits and emotional sustainability across the entire department Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude10 statements
Emerging
  1. Operational persistence — continues facilitating scheduled recreational activities through minor setbacks such as low initial attendance or equipment delays, maintaining energy and participant engagement Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Routine pressure tolerance — sustains consistent performance quality across back-to-back programs or high-attendance weekend events without visible deterioration in service or attitude Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Uncertainty navigation — continues planning and executing recreational programs during periods of budget ambiguity, staffing shortages, or organizational change without waiting for perfect conditions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Guest adversity management — remains composed and solution-focused when managing difficult guests, repetitive complaints, or safety incidents during high-stakes public events Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Seasonal demand resilience — sustains high performance through peak-season surges that involve extended hours, compressed planning timelines, and maximum facility utilization Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Crisis perseverance — leads the department through significant disruptions—such as facility damage, weather emergencies, or major public incidents—maintaining operational continuity and staff morale under sustained pressure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Resource constraint fortitude — delivers quality recreational programming despite chronic budget reductions, understaffing, or aging facilities, finding viable paths forward without abandoning program standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Courageous accountability — raises safety concerns, budget discrepancies, or ethical issues with senior leadership even when doing so involves personal or professional risk Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Transformational resilience leadership — guides the full recreation department through prolonged organizational adversity—such as multi-season closures or major funding cuts—sustaining team cohesion, program identity, and guest loyalty throughout Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Courage modeling — publicly demonstrates willingness to take on high-risk program innovations, advocate for underserved guest populations, or challenge counterproductive organizational decisions, inspiring the same courage in departmental staff Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Activities Manager · Amusement Park Manager · Aquatics Director · Aquatics Manager · Boat Club Manager · Camp and Recreation Manager · Camp Director · Club Director · Club Manager · Entertainment and Recreation GM (Entertainment and Recreation General Manager) · Entertainment and Recreation Manager · Entertainment and Recreation Operations Manager (Entertainment and Recreation Ops Manager)
RAPIDS apprenticeships
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O*NET skills
SpeakingActive ListeningReading ComprehensionCritical ThinkingSocial PerceptivenessCoordinationService OrientationWritingJudgment and Decision MakingMonitoringInstructingTime ManagementActive LearningComplex Problem SolvingManagement of Personnel ResourcesNegotiationSystems EvaluationLearning StrategiesPersuasion
Knowledge domains
Customer and Personal ServiceEducation and TrainingEnglish LanguageAdministration and ManagementComputers and ElectronicsPublic Safety and SecurityPersonnel and Human ResourcesAdministrativeMathematicsSociology and AnthropologyPsychologyCommunications and MediaSales and Marketing
Abilities
Oral ExpressionOral ComprehensionSpeech RecognitionSpeech ClarityWritten ExpressionProblem SensitivityWritten ComprehensionInductive ReasoningNear VisionFluency of Ideas
Work styles
DependabilitySocial OrientationLeadership OrientationCooperationOptimismStress Tolerance
Technology
Document management softwareHuman resources softwareData base user interface and query softwarePresentation softwareOperating system softwareProject management softwareComputer based training softwareInstant messaging softwareVideo conferencing softwareCloud-based data access and sharing software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Plan, organize, or lead group activities for customers, such as exercise routines, athletic events, or arts and crafts.
  2. Plan programs of events or schedules of activities.
  3. Talk to coworkers using electronic devices, such as computers and radios.
  4. Write budgets to plan recreational activities or programs.
  5. Interview and hire associates to fill staff vacancies.
  6. Calculate and record department expenses and revenue.
  7. Talk to customers to convey information about events or activities.
  8. Explain rules and regulations of facilities and entertainment attractions to customers.
CIP education codes
03.020731.030131.030231.039931.050452.010152.020152.090152.0906

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.