Recreation Program Assistant (Parks & Recreation Department)

County of Berks; Reading (Berks County); On-site; USD 33,000 - 36,000; Part time

Job summary

County of Berks is seeking a part-time Program Assistant to support development and implementation of outdoor recreation programs and special events within the Parks Department. The role involves planning, coordinating, supervising activities, and assisting with volunteers and staff training.

The position requires flexibility for weekends/holidays, a minimum age of 18, and a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in related fields. A PA driver’s license is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in parks and recreation, landscape architecture, environmental studies, or related field preferred.
• One year of outdoor recreation-related and customer service experience in a public program setting preferred.
• Equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Valid Pennsylvania driver’s license required.

Responsibilities

• Assist in planning, implementation, and supervision of Parks-sponsored events such as concerts, festivals, and special events.
• Assist in planning outdoor recreation programs and environmental education workshops.
• Support development of new outdoor recreation programs through research and analysis.
• Manage implementation of outdoor experiences (hikes, birding, paddling, etc.).
• Coordinate scheduling and information for programs.
• Identify partnerships to promote outdoor recreation.
• Assist with recruiting, scheduling, and recognition of volunteers.
• Train staff on operation of Parks Recreation and Special Events Programs.
• Assist with researching and preparing grant proposals.
• Collaborate with staff to plan special events and recreation programs.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Public relations

Customer service

Verbal communication

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Microsoft Word

Education

Bachelors degree in parks and recreation or related field

Valid Pennsylvania driver’s license

Tools

Microsoft Word

Job description

New Hires Hourly Starting Rate -$16.23

Position Summary

The ProgramAssistant is a PT year-round OR seasonal position that provides support and assistance in the program development and implementation of outdoor recreation programs and special events for the Parks Department. This position is required to handle a multitude of tasks, which include the necessary planning, research, coordination, and supervision of outdoor educational programs, workshops, and tours. Working under the direction of the Supervisor of Recreation and Special Events, this position also plays an important role in assisting in the planning, coordination, and supervision of County Park special events such as concerts, festivals, and other community-based activities.

Position Responsibilities

Essential Functions

• Assists in the planning, implementation, and supervision of existing Parks-sponsored events such as concerts, festivals, and special events.
• Assists in the planning, implementation, and supervision of existing Park outdoor recreation and environmental education programs such as nature hikes, fishing, geocaching, orienteering, boating safety and educational workshops.
• Support the development of new outdoor recreation programs through research and comparative analysis.
• Manage the implementation and supervision of a variety of outdoor experiences, such as hikes, birding, paddling, scouting programs, cycling, kayaking, water safety and winter sports.
• Support the scheduling and coordination of programs, including sending out information.
• Conduct research and work with the Supervisor of Recreation and Special Events and Director to identify and develop opportunities for partnerships to promote outdoor recreation.
• Assist with the training, recruitment, scheduling, and recognition of volunteers for the Parks Department who may serve as recreation instructors, guides, and special event attendants.
• Help orient and train staff in relation to the operation of the Parks Recreation and Special Events Programs.
• Assist with researching and preparing grant proposals.
• Responsible for working with other staff to implement and plan special events and recreation programs.
• Other duties as assigned.

Non-essential Functions

• Maintenance duties as needed.
• Office administrative duties.

Minimum Education and Experience

• Minimum age requirement: 18
• Bachelor’s degree from a college or university with major coursework in parks and recreation, landscape architecture, environmental studies, or related fields preferred.
• One (1) year of demonstrated outdoor recreation-related and customer service experience in a public program setting working with the visitors and volunteers preferred.
• Equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Valid Pennsylvania driver’s license.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of the principles and basic methods used in the planning, development, and implementation of environmental education programs, as well as special events such as concerts and festivals.
• Knowledge of the principles and basic methods used in the planning, development, and implementation of outdoor recreation programs, classes, activities, and events.
• Knowledge of basic principles and practices of park and recreation programs as they relate to a County park system.
• An appreciation for the natural environment and an eagerness to share this with others.
• Excellent positive public relations and customer service skills.
• Ability to support the planning, organizing, and implementation of programs and events.
• Ability to work with the Recreation Supervisor and Director to cultivate key partnerships with organizations and institutions.
• Self-motivated and detail-oriented, with the ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
• Ability to work with audiences across all ages and diverse personal backgrounds and treat visitors and staff with respect and tact.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and grammatically.
• Commitment to departmental collaboration and collegiality.
• Ability to adapt to changing departmental needs and priorities.
• Skill in the use of Microsoft Word and related computer programs.
• Required to work varied shifts, including weekends, holidays, and evenings
• CPR/First Aid or the ability to attend in-house trainings.
• Must obtain Pennsylvania Act 153 Clearances.
• Able to handle stress.
• Physical presence in the office is required.
• Must be able to travel to various park and off-site locations as needed.

Physical Demands

• Ability to work occasionally for extended hours.
• Ability to stand for long periods of time.
• Ability to lift 25 lbs., bend, stoop, climb, and reach.
• Ability to walk at various intervals.

Working Environment

• Will be required to work outside and be exposed to variable weather conditions.
• Exposure to environmental conditions, which could include bugs, insects, animals, etc.
• The work environment may include a fast-paced setting with frequent interruptions, changing priorities, and interactions with employees, the public, and other stakeholders.

This position description serves as a guideline for communicating the essential functions and other information about the position to the applicant/employee. It is not intended to create a binding employment contract nor cover every detail of the position and may be changed where appropriate.