Recreation Program Lead: Events, Staff & Facilities

City of Mesa; Mesa (AZ); On-site; USD 52,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Mesa is seeking a Recreation Programmer to plan, organize, and supervise diverse recreation programs and facility operations across multiple assignments.

This role involves supervising staff, coordinating reservations, maintaining safety standards, and partnering with schools and community groups to deliver inclusive programs. The position may require evenings, weekends, and holidays to support activities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Recreation, Leisure Services, Facility Management, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Two years full-time experience (or four years part-time) planning, organizing, and developing specialized recreation and/or youth programs or activities OR one year of full-time experience (or two years of part-time experience) as a City of Mesa Recreation Specialist.
• Must possess a valid Class D Arizona Driver's License by hire or promotion date.
• Must obtain Red Cross (or equivalent) Lifeguard Training and CPR for the Professional Rescuer certifications within 30 days of hire or promotion date and a Water Safety Instructor certificate within 90 days of hire or promotion date (Aquatics Assignment).
• Must have CPR/AED and First Aid certificate within 30 days of hire or promotion date (Adaptive, Aquatics, Recreation Center, and Tennis Center Assignments).
• Must have valid Department of Economic Security fingerprint clearance card level 1 within 30 days of hire or promotion date; Department of Economic Security Article 9 certification; and Protective Behaviors Certification all within 30 days of hire or promotion date (Adaptive Assignment).
• Substance Abuse Testing. Due to the safety and/or security sensitive nature of this classification, individuals shall be subject to pre-employment or pre-placement alcohol, drug and/or controlled substance testing as outlined in City policy and procedures (by assignment).
• Preferred/Desirable Qualifications. Municipal recreation experience is preferred. Membership in the National Recreation & Parks Association (NRPA) or the Arizona Parks & Recreation Association (AZPRA), Certification as a Parks & Recreation Professional (CPRP), and/or any other valid accredited certification program related to the position. Possession of a nationally recognized certificate in Therapeutic Recreation and/or experience working with people with disabilities (Adaptive Assignment). Experience using social media software to create and monitor marketing efforts for the department (Aquatics Assignment). Previous attendance at a NET Generation Workshop through the United States Tennis Association (USTA) and/or attendance at USTA Recreation Coaches’ Workshop (Tennis Assignment).

Responsibilities

• planning, organizing, scheduling, coordinating, and implementing recreational activities, events, and classes.
• selecting, training, supervising, and evaluating staff to support the recreation program area.
• securing, scheduling, and preparing recreation facilities.
• preparing promotional program information for distribution.
• assisting with and monitoring a budget for assigned program area.
• preparing program evaluations and other related reports.
• participating in local, state, and national organizations related to assigned program areas.

Job description

City of Mesa is seeking a Recreation Programmer to plan, organize, and supervise diverse recreation programs and facility operations across multiple assignments.

This role involves supervising staff, coordinating reservations, maintaining safety standards, and partnering with schools and community groups to deliver inclusive programs. The position may require evenings, weekends, and holidays to support activities.