Recreation Programs Specialist (McBeth/Austin Parks & Recreation)

City of Austin; United States; On-site; USD 32,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Austin is seeking a Recreation Programs Specialist to develop and implement specialized recreational programs and activities. The role involves coordinating citywide programs, coaching events, and ensuring safety compliance across activities.

You will adapt offerings for participants with disabilities, manage payments, and collaborate with partner organizations, driving inclusive, accessible recreation for all ages.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in Recreation or related field plus 1 year experience or education substitution allowed.

Responsibilities

• Develops, markets, schedules, implements, conducts, and coordinates Citywide activities, programs, and events.
• Coaches and officiates sporting activities.
• Ensures compliance with safety rules for all events and activities.
• Adapts classes for participants with disabilities.
• Prepares and reviews receipts, payments, and other transactions.

Skills

Recreation programs

Budgeting

Safety practices

Supervision

Communication skills

Education

Associate degree in Recreation or related field

1 year related experience

Tools

RecTrac

Job description

About This Position

Job Description: Recreation Programs Specialist Purpose: Under general supervision, this position develops and implements specialized recreational programs and activities.

Duties, Functions and Responsibilities

Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.

• Develops, markets, schedules, implements, conducts, and coordinates Citywide activities, programs, and special events.
• Coaches and officiates sporting activities.
• Ensures all events and activities conform to appropriate safety rules.
• Modifies classes and workshops to accommodate individuals with a variety of disabilities.
• Prepares and reviews payments, cash receipts, billing, or other accounting transactions by verifying documentation and accurately completing transactions.
• Coordinates with other organizations.
• Solicits donations.
• Transports and/or accompanies program and event participants.
• Provides participants and the general public with information.
• Completes and maintains forms, records, and reports.
• Ensures proper facility and equipment set up and maintenance.
• Maintains inventory of supplies, tools, equipment, trophies, prizes, and mementos.

Responsibilities – Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised

May provide leadership, work assignments, evaluation, and guidance to others.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.
• Knowledge of recreational programs and activities.
• Knowledge of City practices and policies and Local laws and procedures.
• Knowledge of Federal, State, and Local laws and ordinances.
• Knowledge of fiscal planning and budget preparation.
• Knowledge of supervisory and managerial techniques and methods.
• Knowledge of safety practices and procedures.
• Skill in oral and written communication.
• Skill in using computers and related software applications.
• Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
• Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
• Ability to plan, market, and promote programs.
• Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
• Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with the City and the public.

Minimum Qualifications

• Graduation with an associate degree from an accredited college or university in Recreation or a related field, plus one (1) year of experience related to the development and implementation of the assigned programs.
• Experience may substitute for the education up to a maximum of two (2) years.

Licenses and Certifications Required

• Appropriate certifications as specified for the assignment. May require certification in CPR, First Aid, Water Safety Instruction, or other areas as specified for the assigned class.
• Texas Class "C" Driver or Commercial Driver license if required for the assignment.

Preferred Experience/Qualifications

• Experience working specifically with Youth (5 – 12 years of age), Teens (13 – 18 years of age), adults (18-60) and seniors (60+) with disabilities in a professional recreational setting.
• Experience in recruiting, training, and supervising temporary employees, contract workers, instructors and/or volunteer/volunteer groups.
• Experience creating, editing, and producing promotional/marketing materials such as flyers, brochures, and social media (Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Facebook).
• Experience planning, implementing, and evaluating inclusive recreation programs, adaptive sport activities (i.e., Special Olympics, wheelchair sports, modified swimming, etc.) and community events.
• Experience with RecTrac or other recreation/database management software program.
• Licenses and Certifications: Currently credentialed by the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) or have the ability to obtain the certification within six (6) months of hire.

Other

• Ability to travel to more than one location

Compensation Range

The annual hiring range for this position is $23.34-$26.61

Notes to Candidate

The City of Austin Parks and Recreation (APR) provides, protects and preserves a park system that promotes quality recreational, cultural and outdoor experiences for the Austin community. Working with the City of Austin provides a number of health and welfare benefits, such as medical, paid leave time, a great retirement plan, training opportunities and more!

The purpose of the Recreation Program Specialist position is to support programs and activities providing services directly to persons with disabilities or in need of special modifications in order to participate in APR programs and activities. The Recreation Program Specialist is responsible for developing, scheduling, marketing, implementing, and evaluating youth, adult, senior and outreach programs, sports skills programs, adult trips, and special events. Coordinates with other organizations as necessary to implement programs and activities.

Other Information

Travel: If you are selected for this position and meet the Driver Safety Standards in the City of Austin Driver Safety Program, you will drive when necessary to multiple locations as part of your regular job duties. Otherwise, you are responsible for getting to and from these locations.

90 Day Provision for Additional Vacancy: This posting may be used to fill other vacancies in other divisions/work locations within the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department. Decisions on assigned selection will be made at the time of hire based on the business needs of the department.

Tobacco and Vape-Free Workplace: All APR work site locations are tobacco-free. Use of tobacco products and/or e-cigarettes is not permitted on any APR work site – including construction sites, parking lots, garages or in any personal vehicles located on the premises.

Location

McBeth Recreation Center 2401 Columbus Drive Austin, TX 78746

Hours

Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. May be required to work during special events, evenings, weekends & holidays. Work schedule and location is subject to change based on department needs and programs. May be required to work during city emergencies such as extreme weather events.

JOIN THE CITY OF AUSTIN TEAM

At the City of Austin, we are more than just an employer—we are a vibrant community dedicated to shaping one of the nation's most dynamic and innovative cities. As we strive to fulfill our commitment as public servants, it is important that we ground our efforts in a set of guiding principles – Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, Engagement, and Equity – that anchor our delivery of services that significantly impact the lives of Austinites. Joining the City of Austin means embarking on a purposeful career, contributing to the community, and being part of a forward-thinking organization that values every employee.

What Makes the City of Austin Special? Make a Difference: Join a team driving meaningful change in one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation. Value and Innovation: Work in an environment where employees are valued, and innovation thrives. Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits. Retirement Security: Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System. Sustainable Transportation Options: Commute easily with access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure. Focus on Wellness: Stay healthy through wellness programs, on-site fitness centers, and mental health support. Career Growth: Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities. Modern Workspaces: Work in innovative and sustainable environments that foster collaboration and inspiration. By joining us, you become part of a community that values its people and is committed to making Austin the most thriving and resilient city in the country.

EEO Statement for City of Austin

The City of Austin will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. In addition, the City will not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of an individual's AIDS, AIDS Related Complex, or HIV status; nor will the City discriminate against individuals who are perceived to be at risk of HIV infection, or who associate with individuals who are believed to be at risk. City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application process or have a question regarding an essential job function, please call [phone] or Texas Relay by dialing 7-1-1.