Program Specialist - Northern Senior Activity Center

Develops, recommends, and coordinates implementation of recreational, educational, and physical fitness programs for senior activity center participants; monitors and evaluates effectiveness of programs in meeting established goals and objectives; performs other duties as assigned.

The hiring salary for this position is $52,874 annually.

1. Develops, recommends, and coordinates implementation of recreational, educational, and physical fitness programs for senior activity center participants; 
2. Monitors and evaluates effectiveness of programs in meeting established goals and objectives; 
3. Recommends and monitors changes to meet requirements;
4. Plans and manages a variety of educational and personal development classes and special events for older adults; 
5. Leads evidence-based, health promotion programming, both educational and fitness. Training provided;
6. Leads a variety of activities and programs;
7. Produces articles for newsletters; 
8. Designs and prepares posters, flyers, and articles publicizing the programs developed or arranged; 
9. Purchases materials necessary for carrying out planned programs, following county procurement policies;
10. Maintains records of attendance, emergency medical and family data, and transportation records for senior activity center participants;
11. Updates such records on comprehensive client database;
12. Compiles required statistics on program participation by senior activity center participants;
13. Assists with program registration and collects fees using registration software;
14. Works closely with instructors and volunteers;
15. Ensures that the center is kept clean and orderly; provides appropriate seasonal or special event decorations; creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere in the center;
16. Maintains and updates bulletin boards, and event calendars;
17. Advises consumers of available programs and encourages participation through leadership and direct involvement;
18. Assists in the commercial kitchen with the congregate and home delivered meals programs; 
19. Performs other duties as required.

1. Ability to gain thorough knowledge of St. Mary’s County Government policies and procedures;
2. Ability to effectively communicate with other staff and especially older adults, in a courteous and caring manner;
3. Expert knowledge of the principles and methods of program planning and development for older adults; wide ranging knowledge of the interests and social recreational needs of older adults; 
4. Ability to function skillfully in three or more of the following areas: art, music, crafts, humanities, or physical activity instruction;
5. Ability to operate audio-visual equipment and to use computers and standard computer software;
6. Ability to provide group leadership and to deal effectively and successfully with program participants and co-workers, other professionals, and the general public;
7. Expert knowledge of government programs and services available to the elderly;
8. Ability to prepare and maintain accurate records;
9. Ability to plan, organize, and execute essential tasks with minimum instruction or review;
10. Ability to operate a county vehicle;
11. High levels of resourcefulness and an energetic approach to conceiving and implementing a day-to-day program of activities and events which will appeal to and attract older adults of diverse socio-economic and cultural backgrounds;
12. Good physical condition required; capable of providing participative leadership in activities such as exercise, dance, sports, crafts, etc.

1. Associates degree in activity therapy, art, music, dance, recreation, or related discipline;
2. Or equivalent technical training, education, and/or experience

Additional Requirements:

1. Must have CPR certification or become certified within (3) three months of employment;
2. Must have a valid driver's license;
3. Must complete food safety training with (6) months of employment;
4. Must successfully pass background investigation with favorable results;
5. Must pass a pre-employment drug test.

Physical and Environmental Conditions: 
Work requires light physical effort, e.g. continual standing or walking of 60%+ of the time.

Work environment involves everyday risks or discomforts which require normal safety precautions typical of such places as offices or meeting rooms, e.g., use of safe workplace practices with kitchen equipment, and/or avoidance of trips and falls. 


Full salary range for this position is $52,874 - $91,042 annually. The full salary range does not reflect the anticipated hiring salary for this position. The anticipated hiring range is $52,874 annually.