Recreation - Recreation Center Program Developer - Parks & Recreation
Abilene Zoological Gardens · Abilene, TX · 1 wk ago
Business DevelopmentFull-time
About the role
Under the general supervision of the Recreation Center Manager, plans, coordinates, promotes, and evaluates recreational programs and activities for participants of all ages. Helps ensure programs are safe, inclusive, engaging, and responsive to community needs.
Responsibilities
- Develop and coordinate recreational programs, classes, leagues, special events, and community activities.
- Prepare program schedules, registration information, promotional materials, and activity calendars.
- Monitor participation, attendance, customer satisfaction, and program costs.
- Coordinate the work of staff, volunteers, and program instructors as assigned.
- Assist with facility scheduling and ensure activities are conducted safely and efficiently.
- Develop strategies to increase engagement and participation.
- Provide excellent customer service to participants, families, community members, and facility users.
- Enforce recreation center policies, safety procedures, and applicable regulations.
- Coordinate the equipment, supplies, facilities, and vendors needed to support programs and activities.
- Respond to participant concerns and resolve routine program and customer service issues.
- Maintain program records, reports, budgets, and other required documentation.
- Coordinate special events, tournaments, camps, and community-wide recreation initiatives.
- Obtain necessary permits, equipment, and resources in accordance with applicable safety requirements.
- Manage event logistics, including venue setup, equipment, decorations, catering, and supplies.
- Coordinate staff and volunteers, delegate tasks, oversee event operations, and address issues that arise.
- Recommend changes to program staffing, objectives, policies, and procedures to improve effectiveness and efficiency.
- Monitor expenses, track invoices, and adjust plans as needed to remain within budget.
- Promote Recreation Division services, programs, activities, and events through various media.
- Research current trends and developments in the recreation industry and identify opportunities to enhance programs and services.
- Collaborate with the Media Specialist on digital and print promotion of upcoming events, including event descriptions, visuals, and other promotional materials designed to attract participants.
- Perform other job-related duties and responsibilities as assigned.
Requirements
- Experience: One (1) to three (3) years of experience in recreation, fitness, sports management, community programming, parks and recreation, or a related field.
- Education/Training: High school diploma or equivalent is required. A bachelor’s degree with major coursework in recreation administration, physical education, leisure studies, or a related field is preferred.
- License or Certificate: A valid Texas driver’s license, the ability to obtain one within ninety (90) days of employment, or a military waiver is preferred. CPR/AED certification is required within six (6) months of hire.
- Special Requirements: Essential duties require medium physical strength (lifting no more than 50 pounds; carrying up to 25 pounds). Physical demand codes: Standing – Moderate; Sitting – Moderate; Walking – Moderate; Lifting – Infrequent; Carrying – Infrequent; Pushing/Pulling – Infrequent; Overhead Work – Infrequent; Fine Dexterity – Moderate; Kneeling – Infrequent; Crouching – Infrequent; Crawling – Infrequent; Bending – Infrequent; Twisting – Infrequent; Climbing – Moderate; Balancing – Extensive; Vision – Extensive; Hearing – Extensive; Talking – Extensive.
Skills
- Plan, organize, and coordinate recreation programs and activities.
- Communicate effectively with participants, staff, volunteers, community partners, and the public.
- Provide excellent customer service and resolve participant concerns.
- Coordinate staff and volunteers to support programs, activities, and events.
- Develop program schedules, promotional materials, and reports.
- Manage multiple programs, priorities, and deadlines.
- Maintain accurate records and monitor program participation.
- Establish positive working relationships with community organizations and partners.
- Respond appropriately to emergencies and enforce safety procedures.
- Work effectively with people of different ages,