Parks and Recreation Representative

General Description

The Recreation & Aquatics Front Desk Associate is responsible for operating the registration, admissions, and point-of-sale functions at the Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center (SHSAC). This position serves as the primary customer contact for the public, providing information, assisting with registrations and memberships, handling cash transactions, and ensuring a welcoming and professional front-line experience for all patrons.

Reporting & Organizational Relationships

This position reports directly to the SHSAC Supervisor. The role involves close collaboration with other Parks and Recreation staff, City departments, and community organizations to ensure compliance with City policies and procedures and to maintain a high standard of customer service and facility operations.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Serve as the first point of contact for SHSAC patrons and Parks & Recreation customers, providing excellent customer service in person and over the phone.
• Greet and assist visitors, respond to general inquiries, and direct calls or messages appropriately.
• Provide accurate information about programs, classes, memberships, events, and facilities offered through the Parks and Recreation Department.
• Process registrations, memberships, and admissions using the department’s recreation management software (SmartRec).
• Handle all financial transactions accurately, including cash handling, credit card processing, and preparation of daily reports and bank deposits.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe environment, including lobby, locker rooms, soaking pools, and other shared areas.
• Enforce facility rules and policies in a consistent, professional, and customer-friendly manner.
• Respond to customer concerns, resolve issues when possible, and refer matters appropriately.
• Aid in administrative duties related to recreation programming, scheduling, and departmental communication.
• Support the implementation of emergency procedures and complete Incident/Accident Reports when required.
• Assist with opening and closing duties of the facility.
• Attend and actively participate in staff meetings and in-service training sessions.
• Represent the City of Salida and the Parks & Recreation Department in a positive, professional, and community-oriented manner.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong customer service skills with the ability to interact effectively and courteously with patrons and coworkers.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities to promote positive outcomes.
• Professional demeanor and appearance.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with frequent interruptions.
• Ability to enforce facility policies consistently and respectfully.
• Sound judgment and decision-making skills.
• Familiarity with or ability to learn SHSAC policies, procedures, and emergency response protocols.
• Basic knowledge of lifesaving and emergency equipment preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and general office technology; ability to learn recreation management software (SmartRec).
• Flexibility to work non-traditional hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations and age groups.

Education and Experience

• A high school diploma or equivalent required.
• One (1) year of customer service and cash handling experience in a fast-paced environment preferred.
• Experience in recreation, hospitality, or facility operations desirable.
• Must obtain and maintain current certifications in First Aid and CPR within three (3) months of hire.

Environmental and Physical Conditions

• Work is primarily performed in an office or front-desk environment within the Aquatic Center.
• Regular exposure to a warm, humid environment and chemically treated water.
• Must be able to sit, stand, or walk for extended periods.
• Frequent bending, reaching, writing, and lifting of items up to 30 pounds; occasional overhead lifting required.
• Use of cleaning products and occasional participation in facility cleaning and maintenance.
• Flexible schedule required, including mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.

General Description of Benefits

• Part-time regular employees are eligible for accrued sick time.
• A family swim benefit at the Salida Hot Springs Aquatic Center.
• Discounts on Recreation and Aquatics programs and products.