Temporary Recreation Leader I - Teen Influencer

Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities

Recreation Leader I – Teen Influencer (Grant-Funded)

Schedule: Approximately 32 hours per week during the summer, with the potential to continue during the school year.

Position Overview

The Recreation Leader I – Teen Influencer is a temporary, grant-funded position responsible for supporting recreation, youth engagement, and community outreach initiatives that encourage positive youth development. Under the supervision of Recreation staff, Teen Influencers serve as peer leaders and ambassadors who help connect Alexandria youth with recreation programs, educational opportunities, community resources, sports, employment, scholarships, mentoring, and other pro-social activities. Employees assist with planning and implementing programs, special events, outreach efforts, and youth engagement initiatives while promoting a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all participants.

A Message from the Director

Welcome to the City of Alexandria’s Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities. I am excited that you are considering joining our team. Every day, we have the privilege of serving a city that values connection, creativity, and community. Our parks, programs, and cultural spaces reflect Alexandria’s diversity and spirit, and our people are the heart of it all.

As you explore opportunities within RPCA, know that you are stepping into a department where teamwork, curiosity, and service guide everything we do. We take pride in our work, we find purpose in our impact, and we celebrate the difference each team member makes. Together, we are building something meaningful for the people of Alexandria, and I am grateful for your interest in being part of it.

Hashim T. Taylor, Director, Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities

About You

You are service-minded, dependable, and take pride in your work. You bring energy, professionalism, and a sense of purpose to every task, whether maintaining a park, supporting a program, or greeting visitors.

By joining RPCA, you become part of a team that takes pride in serving Alexandria and shaping experiences that last a lifetime.

As part of RPCA, you will be expected to:

• Serve with purpose and approach each day with enthusiasm and a commitment to excellence
• Embody accountability and curiosity by taking initiative, asking questions, and seeking solutions
• Demonstrate teamwork and respect, supporting colleagues and fostering a positive, inclusive environment
• Stay responsive and reliable by being attentive, dependable, and engaged with the community
• Reflect our values through transparency, professionalism, and wholehearted dedication to service

The mission of the department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities is to create meaningful experiences that inspire community, foster creativity, and enhance the quality of life for everyone in Alexandria. The Department envisions Alexandria as a vibrant, connected, and thriving community where every resident feels a sense of belonging. Through safe, inclusive, and innovative programs and spaces, we strengthen well-being, celebrate diversity, and create opportunities for joy and discovery. Guided by equity and excellence, we are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all who live, work, and play in our city. The Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities received national accreditation from the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA). National accreditation requires park and recreation agencies to meet 155 standards representing elements of effective and efficient park and recreation operations.

Essential Duties

• Conduct outreach to youth who are not yet connected to positive out-of-school-time activities and community resources.
• Encourage peers to participate in recreation programs, sports, arts, employment opportunities, scholarships, mentoring, volunteer service, and community events.
• Serve as positive role models and peer leaders who promote healthy decision-making and community involvement.
• Assist with the planning, implementation, supervision, and evaluation of recreation programs, special events, and youth activities.
• Support staff at community events, outreach activities, and special projects.
• Research, gather, and share information for a citywide teen opportunities calendar, including programs, jobs, scholarships, and events.
• Assist with social media, marketing materials, participant engagement, and other communication efforts.
• Maintain positive relationships with participants, families, community partners, and staff while ensuring a safe and inclusive environment.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to communicate effectively with youth, staff, and community members.
• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Interest in youth leadership, mentoring, community engagement, crime prevention, and recreation.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Knowledge of Alexandria schools, neighborhoods, youth culture, and community resources is desirable.
• Comfortable using social media, technology, and online communication tools.
• Ability to work respectfully with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Bilingual skills are desirable but not required.

Minimum: High School Diploma and one (1) year of related experience  or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.  First Aid training.

Additional requirements:
Must be a teen eligible to work in the United States.
Available to work up to 32 hours per week during the summer, including evenings and weekends as needed.
Demonstrated interest in community service, leadership, recreation, mentoring, or youth development.
Ability to successfully complete all required City of Alexandria pre-employment requirements.This position is subject to a background check and drug screening.