Innovative Programs Coordinator

About the role

The Innovative Programs Coordinator is a member of the Parks & Recreation Administrative Division and works under the direction of the Director of Parks & Recreation. This position is responsible for researching, developing, implementing, and evaluating innovative recreation programs that enhance the quality of life for Hattiesburg residents of all ages.

Responsibilities

• Research recreation trends, best practices, and community needs to develop innovative, inclusive, and sustainable recreation programming.
• Develop, administer, and evaluate community surveys and program assessments to identify recreation needs and measure program effectiveness.
• Analyze research findings and prepare reports, recommendations, presentations, and supporting documentation to guide programming and departmental planning.
• Research, plan, organize, schedule, coordinate, and implement recreational programs, classes, workshops, special events, and community initiatives.
• Serve as a member of the leadership team for the department’s annual five-week Summer Camp program by assisting with program planning, seasonal staff recruitment and interviews, staff training and support, curriculum implementation, supply management, logistics, and daily program operations.
• Aid in the recruitment, onboarding, training, supervision, and evaluation of seasonal staff, temporary employees, instructors, volunteers, officials, and coaches supporting assigned programs.
• Collaborate with the Adult Sports Division and other Parks & Recreation divisions to assist with leagues, tournaments, special events, and department-wide programming initiatives.
• Secure, schedule, prepare, and coordinate the use of recreation facilities, equipment, and program resources.
• Absorb and administer assigned program budgets.
• Build and maintain partnerships with schools, nonprofit organizations, businesses, civic groups, and other City departments to expand recreational opportunities and strengthen community engagement.
• Design, write, edit, and coordinate promotional materials, social media content, newsletters, flyers, presentations, and other public communications supporting Parks & Recreation programs and initiatives.
• Communicate professionally and effectively with participants, parents, volunteers, vendors, community partners, City staff, elected officials, and the general public.
• Pursue continuing education opportunities to strengthen recreation programming and professional knowledge.
• Support department-wide initiatives and perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Parks & Recreation, Chief Administrative Officer, Chief Communications Officer, or Mayor.

Qualifications

• Valid Mississippi driver’s license.
• Bachelor’s degree in Parks and Recreation, Recreation Administration, Public Administration, Event Management, Communications, Marketing, Education, Leisure Services, or a closely related field preferred.
• Experience in recreation programming, event planning, youth programming, community engagement, project management, communications, or a related field preferred.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with a wide variety of audiences.
• Strong research, analytical, and critical-thinking skills with the ability to interpret data and develop recommendations that enhance recreation programming.
• Demonstrated ability to organize and manage multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated ability to develop innovative programs that respond to community needs and emerging recreation trends.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail in planning, logistics, budgeting, scheduling, and program administration.
• Ability to recruit, support, train, and work collaboratively with seasonal staff, volunteers, and community partners.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with City staff, elected officials, community organizations, businesses, schools, volunteers, and the public.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and the ability to utilize digital communication platforms, social media, and basic graphic design software to support departmental marketing efforts.
• Ability to work independently while contributing positively to a collaborative team environment.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required to support programs, special events, and department operations.