928 job postings were collected and analysed in total. We did not include re-postings of previously available positions. 210 of the postings had more than 1 position available, with 1287 potential positions available. 714 postings did not state how many positions were available, or listed only 1 available position. Combined, the potential number of positions available in the parks and recreation sector was 2001.
Location
Approximately 1/3 of postings were for the urban centres of Regina and Saskatoon. 1% were for First Nations and 21% were for smaller rural communities (population too small to make the list of population centres in Saskatchewan). Overall, the majority of postings were for small cities or rural towns and villages.
Employment Type
45% of postings do not specify employment type (seasonal, full-time, part-time, casual) and 39% do not specify term of employment (temporary, contract, permanent, term). 21% are fulltime and 21% are part-time. 29% are seasonal and 18% are permanent. 46% had hours listed and 37% listed experience requirements.
Education and Training Requirements
64% listed educational requirements of which 50% ask for a post-secondary education of some kind. Post-secondary education is valued by the parks and recreation sector when hiring.
57% required CPR or First Aid and 36% required criminal record or vulnerable sector check. 93% required at least one of CPR, First Aid, Criminal Record Check or Vulnerable Sector Check. Safety and risk management concerns appear to be of high priority when hiring parks and recreation personnel.
Time of Year
If you are a job seeker, you might be wondering when the best time to look for jobs may be?
Our analysis showed that the number of postings peaked in March, dropping during the summer months and reached its lowest point around Christmas. Particularly, if you are a job seeker interested in a seasonal position, keep your eyes peeled in February, March and April.
Wages and Salary
Average hourly wage was $17.91, minimum hourly wage was $10.50 and maximum was $55 - average annual salary was $54,481.74, minimum annual salary was $34, 000 and maximum was $150,500. Therefore, there is a wide range of income depending on the position.
What Does This Mean For You?
2001 jobs in one year means there are many opportunities for the savvy parks and recreation professional looking for work. If you are a job seeker, you'll need to be prepared to live in a small city or large town. You will also need post-secondary education or additional training to be competitive. CPR/First Aid and a clean criminal record are required for 9 out of 10 jobs. Having these on hand when you go into an interview could make all the difference when you're looking to move into your new parks and recreation position.
Most of the jobs were located in a small city or large town, and there was a dramatic spike in posting in the spring. However, these are mostly seasonal positions. Permanent positions tend to be posted evenly year-round (other than Christmas). Requiring significant training or experience in the parks and recreation sector or related sector is typical and expected, particularly for specialized, permanent or full-time positions. Compensation varied widely and was generally commensurate with level of education and experience.
Parks and recreation is clearly a diverse area to cover and skills carry over to other occupations such as administration, health promotion, education, etc.
For more information about career opportunities in recreation and parks, contact us or visit our Resource Centre.
