Youth Recreation Lead

Job Summary

The City of Bellevue is seeking a positive, energetic, and reliable Youth Recreation Lead to deliver youth recreation and sports programs for ages 5–13 at Bellevue community sites and parks. In this enhanced lead role, the individual provides direction and support to program staff, ensures high‑quality youth engagement, and leads the coordination of recreation and sports activities. The position works 15–20 hours per week during afternoons, evenings, and select weekends, balancing duties as a Youth Sports Lead Coach and Recreation Assistant 3 at Crossroads Community Center. Common coaching locations include Crossroads Community Center, Robinswood Park, Tyee Community Gym, and Lake Hills Park or Tillicum Middle School between 3:30 pm and 7:00 pm. Summer opportunities may expand to leading full‑day recreation and sports camps for youth ages 7–13, with seasonal full‑time counselors working 20–40 hours per week.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Plan, oversee, and implement parks, recreation, and community services programs, including Youth Sports activities and events.
• Lead daily Youth Sports program operations such as preparation, expectations, check‑in, team‑building, and indoor/outdoor games.
• Supervise youth participants; provide instruction, coaching, and positive engagement.
• Coach youth basketball and/or soccer teams, including leading practices and games.
• Design, implement, and facilitate program activities and events.
• Assist with program setup, preparation, and takedown.
• Ensure adherence to program and facility rules, policies, and safety standards.
• Inventory, maintain, and properly store equipment to ensure participant and property safety.
• Continuously adapt programs to enhance participant experience and encourage ongoing involvement.
• Lead and oversee the work of partially‑benefitted city staff and volunteers.
• Greet and assist customers; provide program and facility information.
• Support CivicRec registrations and account maintenance.
• Answer and route phone calls and emails.
• Handle transactions accurately and prepare deposits.
• Maintain inventory for multiple program areas.
• Report damage, incidents, and injuries using proper forms.
• Assist with emergency situations.
• Attend staff meetings and trainings.

Qualifications

• Two or more years of experience in the assigned activity or program or in the general parks, recreation, and community services field.
• Comfortable working with diverse youth and teen populations.
• High school diploma or GED; college‑level coursework preferred.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Must pass a criminal background check.
• First Aid/CPR certification required for summer camp assignments.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Strong understanding of youth sports fundamentals, programming, and group management.
• Skillfully develops and plans structured games that motivate participants and enhance learning, youth engagement, and enjoyment.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and cooperatively with staff; leading program operations across multiple settings.
• Ability to remain calm in challenging situations.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Ability to work in loud, multifunctional environments.
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to walk, talk, hear, and stand for extended periods.
• Ability to lift, push, pull, or carry up to 40 pounds.
• Work may be physically strenuous.
• Indoor and outdoor work environments depending on season.

Supplemental Information

This is a variable, non‑exempt, non‑union position. Average weekly hours cannot be determined at date of hire. Hours may vary from week to week and are anticipated to be 28 hours per week or less. The role will be considered full‑time and eligible for medical coverage if hours average 30 hours per week or more over a 12‑month measurement period (or 130 hours per month).

Hiring Process

The City evaluates candidates based on the information provided in the online application only. Resumes and cover letters are not accepted during the initial anonymous screening. Applicants must complete the online application and any supplemental questions. Candidates advancing to later stages may be asked to provide a cover letter, resume, writing sample, and references.

Conditions of Employment

• All candidates must establish employment authorization and identity at the time of hire.
• The City does not sponsor work visas.
• Reference checks are required, including at least one prior supervisor.
• A criminal background check may be required prior to employment.
• Some positions may require a commercial driver’s license, licensures, or additional certifications.