Recreation Programs Specialist

JOIN THE CITY OF AUSTIN TEAM At the City of Austin, we are more than just an employer—we are a vibrant community dedicated to shaping one of the nation's most dynamic and innovative cities. As we strive to fulfill our commitment as public servants, it is important that we ground our efforts in a set of guiding principles – Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, Engagement, and Equity – anchors in delivering services that significantly impact the lives of Austinites. Joining the City of Austin means embarking on a purposeful career, contributing to the community, and being part of a forward-thinking organization that values every employee.What Makes the City of Austin Special?

• Make a Difference: Join a team driving meaningful change in one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation.

• Value and Innovation : Work in an environment where employees are valued and innovation thrives.

• Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits.

• Retirement Security: Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System.

• Sustainable Transportation Options: Commute easily with access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure.

• Focus on Wellness: Stay healthy through wellness programs, on-site fitness centers, and mental health support.

• Career Growth: Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities.

• Modern Workspaces: Work in innovative and sustainable environments that foster collaboration and inspiration.

 By joining us, you become part of a community that values its people and is committed to making Austin the most thriving and resilient city in the country.Job Description:

Purpose:

Under general supervision, this position develops and implements specialized recreational programs and activities.

Duties, Functions and Responsibilities:

Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.

• Develops, markets, schedules, implements, conducts, and coordinates Citywide activities, programs, and special events.

• Coaches and officiates sporting activities.

• Ensures all events and activities conform to appropriate safety rules.

• Modifies classes and workshops to accommodate individuals with a variety of disabilities.

• Prepares and reviews payments, cash receipts, billing, or other accounting transactions by verifying documentation and accurately completing transactions.

• Coordinates with other organizations. Solicits donations.

• Transports and/or accompanies program and event participants.

• Provides participants and the general public with information.

• Completes and maintains forms, records, and reports.

• Ensures proper facility and equipment set up and maintenance.

• Maintains inventory of supplies, tools, equipment, trophies, prizes, and mementos.

Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised:

May provide leadership, work assignments, evaluation, and guidance to others. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.

• Knowledge of recreational programs and activities.

• Knowledge of City practices and policies and Local laws and procedures.

• Knowledge of Federal, State, and Local laws and ordinances.

• Knowledge of fiscal planning and budget preparation.

• Knowledge of supervisory and managerial techniques and methods.

• Knowledge of safety practices and procedures.

• Skill in oral and written communication.

• Skill in using computers and related software applications.

• Skill in data analysis and problem solving.

• Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.

• Ability to plan, market, and promote programs.

• Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.

• Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with the City and the public.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Graduation with an associate degree from an accredited college or university in Recreation or a related field, plus one (1) year of experience related to the development and implementation of the assigned programs.

• Experience may substitute for the education up to a maximum of two (2) years.

Licenses and Certifications Required:

• Appropriate certifications as specified for the assignment.

• May require certification in CPR, First Aid, Water Safety Instruction, or other areas as specified for the assigned class.

• Texas Class "C" Driver or Commercial Driver license if required for the assignment.

Preferred Experience:

• Experience conceptualizing, planning, developing, budgeting, and leading outdoor, environmental, and science education programming (i.e. mountain biking, kayaking, rock climbing, archery, camping, fishing, interpretive programs, leave no trace, etc.) including risk-management and safety protocol for outdoor adventure activities.

• Experience working specifically with youth populations (ages 5-12 yrs.), teens (ages 13-17), adults, families, early childhood, and senior citizen populations in a lead capacity.  

• Experience developing and implementing targeted programs for participants with special needs and adapting these programs to be inclusive of participants with special needs.

• Experience in graphic design, multi-media presentations (including film making), marketing, and social media promotions.

• Experience using RecTrac (or similar) software for program maintenance, creation, enrollments, payments, and reports.

• Experience conceptualizing, planning, developing, and implementing large-scale special events and programs including budgeting and volunteer coordination.

Preferred Skills:

• Ability to fluently communicate (reading, writing, speaking) in English and Spanish.

• Experience using Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, or similar software.

Preferred Certifications:

• Star Guard Elite Lifeguard certificate or ability to acquire within 90 days of hire.

• Trainer or Instructor-Trainer level certifications in high adventure risk management (Archery, Mountain Biking, Rock Climbing, Kayaking, etc.) to be acquired within 180 days of hire.

Other:

• Ability to travel to more than one work location.

Notes to Candidate:

Austin Parks and Recreation (APR) provides, protects, and preserves a park system that promotes quality recreational, cultural, and outdoor experiences for the Austin community. Working with the City of Austin provides a number of health and welfare benefits, such as medical, paid leave time, a great retirement plan, training opportunities and more Click HERE for more information.
 

The purpose of the Recreation Programs Specialist position is to assist with scheduling and implementing active outdoor programs for youth, teens, adults, and senior citizens at the Camacho Activity Center. This position will also train temporary and seasonal employees in the implementation of programs including (but not limited to) biking, kayaking, hiking, camping, archery, rock climbing, and more.

Application Instructions/Job Requirements:

• Application: A detailed, complete application is required, and applicants must include on their Employment Record all experience (work and/or volunteer) related to this job posting – up to 10 years or more; this will be used to determine your base compensation. Employment Record dates must include month and year. Verification of employment history dates on resume should match online Employment Application. Statements such as "See Resume" will not be accepted and a resume alone will not be accepted in lieu of a complete online application.

• Skills Assessments: Skills assessment(s) may be required as part of the recruitment process.

• Virtual Interviews: APR may conduct virtual interviews.

• Driving Requirement: This position requires a valid Texas Class "C" Operator's License or the ability to acquire one by your hire date. External New Hires must meet the City of Austin's Driver Record Evaluation (DRE) requisite. To be considered for a driving position, applicants cannot have more than three moving violations or a total of six Driver Record Evaluation points within a period of thirty-six (36) months.

• Military/Veteran: An applicant claiming Military/Veteran status must provide a copy of his or her DD-214(s), or valid comparable document, at the time of interview.

• Physical Requirements: Tasks may involve bending, lifting, walking, carrying, or using a force equal to lifting up to thirty-five (35) pounds. Must be physically and mentally able to communicate, respond, and work with participant's needs and safety issues.

Other Information:

• Posting Guidelines: APR reserves the right to close posted positions prior to the advertised close date, based on recruitment strategies and business needs. This posting may be used to fill other vacancies in other divisions/work locations within the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department. Decisions on assigned selection will be made at the time of hire based on the business needs of the department.

• Travel: If you are selected for this position, and meet the Driver Safety Standards in the City of Austin Driver Safety Program, you may drive when necessary to multiple locations as part of your regular job duties. Otherwise, you are responsible for getting to and from these locations.

• Tobacco and Vape-Free Workplace: APR work site locations are tobacco-free. Use of tobacco products and/or e-cigarettes is not permitted on any PARD work site – including construction sites, parking lots, garages or in any personal vehicles located on the premises.

Location/Work Schedule Notes: 

Camacho Activity Center - 35 Robert T Martinez Jr. St, Austin, TX 78702

• Monday – Friday, 9:00 am – 6:00 pm.

• Work schedule and location is subject to change based on department needs and programs.

• May be required to work during special events, evenings, weekends & holidays.

• May be required to work during city emergencies such as extreme weather events.

Salary Range:

$ $26.26 per hour.

EEO Statement for City of Austin:

The City of Austin will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. In addition, the City will not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of an individual's AIDS, AIDS Related Complex, or HIV status; nor will the City discriminate against individuals who are perceived to be at risk of HIV infection, or who associate with individuals who are believed to be at risk.

City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application process or have a question regarding an essential job function, please call or Texas Relay by dialing 7-1-1.

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