Recreation Assistant - Parks and Recreation

City of Santa Fe Springs; Roanoke (VA); On-site; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

City of Roanoke is seeking a Recreation Assistant to greet visitors at the Mill Mountain Discovery Center and assist with environmental education programming citywide.

The role supports Discovery Center programs and events, has a flexible 10–35 hour weekly schedule, and requires weekend and holiday work. Non-exempt employment with a focus on engaging the public.

Qualifications

• Coursework in natural sciences and customer service experience.
• Ability to work holidays and weekends.
• Possession of a valid driver’s permit issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Responsibilities

• Daily operation of nature/visitor center.
• Plan, promote and implement nature programs for all ages.
• Administer programs to large groups.
• Help visitors navigate hiking trails and park features.
• Perform impromptu nature programs.
• Research to obtain program partners and ideas.
• Evaluate programs for participant satisfaction and improvement.
• Ensure facilities are clean, safe, and welcoming.

Skills

Educational methods

Outdoor settings

Program development

Communication skills

Teamwork

Education

Natural sciences coursework

Customer service experience

Job description

Description
The City of Roanoke is seeking a Recreation Assistant to welcome and engage daily visitors at the Mill Mountain Discovery Center and collaborate with the Events Supervisor to deliver environmental education programming throughout the city. This position interacts with visitors during open hours, helps deliver environmental education programs and activities, and supports Discovery Center programs and events. This position has a flexible schedule and will be approximately 10-35 hours per week based on availability. Weekend and holiday work is required.
The City of Roanoke is an Equal Employment Opportunity/AA/M/F/Disability Employer.
To elevate the performance of the organization, we are committed to respecting, celebrating, and embracing the collective mixture of differences and similarities between our employees as a rich tapestry. Our behaviors will demonstrate open communication, and we will seek opportunities to learn, recognizing and rewarding actions that promote acceptance while suspending judgment. By doing this, we will foster an inclusive, open work environment that delivers excellent service and creates a more vibrant and inviting community.
This position is non exempt
Examples of Duties
Typical Tasks Include

• Responsible for daily operation of nature/visitor center.
• Plans, promotes, implements nature programs for all age groups.
• Administering programs to large groups.
• Help visitors navigate hiking trails and park features.
• Performs impromptu nature programs.
• Conducts research to obtain program partners and programming ideas.
• Evaluates programs for participant satisfaction and improvement.
• Ensures that facilities are clean, safe, and welcoming.

Typical Qualifications
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Experience and/or knowledge of educational methodologies.
• Comfort in outdoor settings and discussing local wildlife, habitats, and stewardship.
• Hands‑on experience assisting or leading nature‑based programs (schools, camps, parks, museums, nature centers) or relevant coursework (environmental science, biology, ecology).
• Broad knowledge of natural sciences.
• Strong communication skills, both oral and written.
• Ability to research, develop, and execute programs with little supervision.
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships with co‑workers.
• Highly motivated and energetic.

Education And Experience
Required Qualifications: Coursework in natural sciences and customer service experience
Preferred Qualifications: Any combination of education and experience equivalent to two (2) years of college with an emphasis on natural sciences or environmental education.
Special Requirements

• Possession of a valid driver’s permit issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia. Must pass background check.

Must be available to work holidays and weekends
N/A