Recreation Specialist

The purpose of this position is to perform work in the organization and implementation of recreational programs, activities, and special events.

The following statements describe the principal functions of this job and its scope of responsibility but shall not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned, including working in other functional areas to cover absences or relief, to equalize peak work periods, or otherwise to balance the workload.

• Develops and adapts programs through consultation with individuals and specific age groups to meet the needs of the community.
• Develops, organizes, directs, promotes and participates in recreational programs, group activities, classes, and exhibits for all age groups from youth through senior adults.
• Promotes parks and recreation programs by providing news releases, posters, mailings, and flyers to schools and the general public.
• Collects and prepares revenue records for various programs and leagues. Processes applications and registrations for programs and facility usage. Inputs data into Recreation software program. Prepares invoices for programs, independent contractors and/or individuals, leagues, organizations, renters, etc. as needed.
• Meets with the public, answers telephone and written inquires. Registers participants in program. 
• Assists in the selection, placement, training, safety, evaluation and discipline of instructors, leaders, and volunteers.
• Ensures that proper safety procedures are followed at all recreational facilities. Administers first-aid in necessary situations.
• Prepares reports as required by supervisor. Copy, collate and assemble various manuals needed by the Department.
• Performs building inspections before and after use of facilities. Maintains inspections of concession stands and keeps supervisor and concessionaire informed on findings. 
• Maintains, inspects, and repairs equipment needed to run programs. Determines equipment needs for various programs. Transports and sets up equipment for various recreation sites as needed.
• Attends educational seminars, training workshops, and certification courses as needed.
• Performs clerical duties associated with position.
• Assists in planning and organizing special events.
• Monitors use of parks by both the general public and athletic leagues. Conducts observations of events and use of parks and programs and reports back to the Operations Supervisor concerns or needs to be addressed.
• Assists in the preparation, planning, and scheduling of Summer Youth Programs.  Duties include ordering supplies, planning and carrying out activities, assists with
  publicity and registration, and opening and closing of facilities for all programs and events.
• Solicits program donations from private businesses and community groups as well as communicating upcoming opportunities during the department’s yearly, seasonal programs and events. Billboard sales, seasonal pass sales and general marketing of the department.
• Performs other reasonable related duties as assigned by immediate supervisor or other management personnel.

Minimum Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with an Associate Degree.
• Three (3) years of experience in a recreation/ leisure-related field including experience in supervising, planning and directing organized activities, and special events. Knowledge of youth and adult leagues, program planning of sports or youth camps. Experience in sales, marketing and promotions.

• Current CPR and First Aid Certification or obtain within 30 days.
• Possess or ability to obtain a Florida Notary within three (3) months.
• Must possess and maintain a valid Florida Driver’s License or must obtain within 30 days of establishing residency in Florida and be insurable by current insurance carrier, or valid Florida Identification Card is acceptable only for positions not required to drive a county vehicle.
• Must have or be able to obtain certification within three (3) months of employment in FEMA National Incident Management System (NIMS) courses:
  • IS-100.c: Introduction to the Incident Command System (ICS)
  • IS-200.b: ICS for Single Resources & Initial Action Incidents
  • IS-700.b: An Introduction to the National Incident Management System

• Applicant(s) selected for this position must undergo a Level 2 background screening with satisfactory results as determined by HCSO

• Ability to handle a multitude of tasks and prioritize accordingly and to communicate clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing. 
• Possess strong time management skills with a strong work ethic and be a team player.  
• Organization skills and ability to work independently.
• Knowledge of the principles, practices, and philosophy of recreation, methods of program supervision, organization, and marketing techniques for a variety of recreational activities.
• Knowledge of a wide variety of recreational activities.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, holidays and weekends.
• Ability to prepare accurate reports and maintain records.
• Ability to maintain a good working relationship with fellow employees and the public.

Physical Requirements/Work Environment

• The job involves frequent lifting and carrying up to 30 pounds
• The job requires frequent bending, twisting, and occasional squatting, climbing, kneeling, and balancing.
• The job requires the completion of tasks that involve simple grasping, pushing, pulling, fine manual manipulation, and typing.
• The job requires normal visual acuity and field of vision, depth perception and color vision, hearing, and speaking.

• Physical Required: Candidates selected for this position will be required to successfully complete a pre-employment physical examination as a condition of employment. The physical examination is intended to confirm the candidate’s ability to safely perform the essential functions of the position. 

• Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Works closely with others, inside and outside in sometimes noisy conditions.