Recreation Specialist

This is an entry-level position responsible for conducting various recreation programs at a recreation facility.  The employee will independently conduct one or more activities.  Direct supervision is received from the facility director or assistant, and the employee may assign and review the work of part-time, seasonal, or volunteer staff.  Work hours are generally scheduled in the afternoon, evening and weekends.  May independently operate satellite or summer site with in-direct supervision.  Related work is performed as required.

Under the NY HELPS Program, the Civil Service Exam for this title has been waived. For additional information regarding the NY HELPS Program, please visit: https://www.cs.ny.gov/help/faq.cfm

• Develops, coordinates, and conducts education, sports, health & fitness and youth development related programs and services;
• Instructs and leads a wide variety of youth development, life skills, recreation, athletic, cultural and social activities, in accordance with the facility schedule;
• Meets with youth councils and community members to develop programs and activities as directed;
• Directs participants in the correct and safe use of facilities and equipment;
• Ensures that participant code of conduct is understood and adhered to by all persons in the facility;
• Inspects facility as directed to insure it is safe for use by participants;
• Administers emergency first aid and CPR as required;
• Prepares outdoor and indoor activity spaces for program use;
• Advises participants about pertinent resources and programs available in the community;
• Coaches and officiates softball, basketball, track and field sports, soccer and other team sports and games;
• Distributes and maintains supplies and equipment;
• Meets and corresponds with parents or guardians as directed to resolve issues related to participant behavior or conduct;
• Responds to inquiries related to facility programs;
• Performs basic administrative tasks such as filling out forms, collecting activity fees, maintaining records, and other required administrative tasks as directed;
• Works cooperatively with permit-holders and other building users to resolve conflicts and provide on-site support; 
• Recruits youth and adult recreation participants through a variety of means including neighborhood outreach and collaborations with other agencies;
• Attends training sessions to remain current in youth development methods and research, first aid, and other necessary skills.

High school diploma or Equivalent PLUS:

1. Associate’s (or Bachelor’s) degree in Recreation/Leisure Services, Physical Education, Human Services, Art, Drama, Dance, or Music; PLUS one (1) year of full-time experience (or part time equivalent) conducting or instructing recreation, educational, or leisure programs (such as sports, physical education, music, arts and crafts, dance, or dramatics);     OR
2. Two (2) years full-time experience (or part time equivalent) as described in Section 1 above.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

1. Possession of American Red Cross standard first aid and CPR certification or equivalent at time of appointment and on a continuous basis throughout their incumbency. 
2. New York State Class D Driver's License at time of appointment.  This licensure must be maintained throughout employment in this job. 
3. Possession and maintenance of a Van Certification issued by the Department of Recreation & Youth Services.