Recreation Specialist II - Tiny Tots Program

City of Benicia; Benicia (CA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 54,000; Part time

Job summary

The City of Benicia is seeking a Recreation Specialist II for the Tiny Tots Program to plan, develop, implement and supervise developmentally appropriate activities for young children in a preschool setting.

The ideal candidate has strong knowledge of early childhood development, a safe, inclusive learning environment, and a potential teaching credential; duties include program planning, supervision, safety, record-keeping, and coordination with families and staff.

Qualifications

• One year of experience in recreation or education.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Lead teacher experience in preschool or kindergarten preferred.

Responsibilities

• Plan, initiate, organize, and supervise recreation activities.
• Assist in planning, promoting, and evaluating programs.
• Inspect facilities and equipment; arrange maintenance.
• Oversee equipment and supply use; supervise staff.
• Maintain records and reports; ensure safety procedures.

Skills

Creative

Patient

Dependable

Family-friendly

Education

High school diploma or GED

Teaching credential (preferred)

Job description

The Recreation Specialist II for the Tiny Tots Program is responsible for planning, developing, implementing, and supervising engaging, developmentally appropriate recreational and educational activities for young children in a preschool setting. This position requires knowledge of early childhood development, the ability to create a safe, nurturing, and inclusive learning environment, and a commitment to supporting children’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth through play-based learning and structured activities.

The ideal candidate is creative, patient, dependable, and enthusiastic about working with young children and their families. As this is a Lead Teacher position, it is highly desirable that candidates will have a current or previous teaching credential and experience serving as a lead teacher in a preschool or kindergarten classroom.

Candidates must be available to work Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM, with additional preparation hours during the week, for an approximate total of 25 hours per week. This position is also designated as a mandated reporter and requires a commitment to fulfilling all applicable reporting responsibilities.

Duties may include but are not limited to the following:

• Plans, initiates, organizes, and supervises recreation activities in the area of expertise such as arts & crafts, games, sports, special events, day camps, aquatics and after school programs.
• Assist in planning, promoting, organizing, leading and evaluating a variety of recreation programs and activities.
• Inspect assigned recreation facilities and/or equipment and recommend any necessary repair or maintenance work and supply needs.
• Receive and oversee the use of equipment and materials; care for and maintain equipment.
• Assist with supervision of assigned temporary staff; monitor staff relative to assigned duties.
• Prepare program instructions and materials; complete records and reports as required.
• Promote and enforce safety procedures; render first aid and CPR, if certified, as required.
• Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other City employees, and the public using principles of good customer service.
• Receive participant registration paperwork and payments.
• Perform related duties as assigned.

Knowledge of:

• Techniques, rules, and equipment used in a variety of recreational activities and games.
• Practices and methods of public relations and customer service; techniques and principles of effective interpersonal communication.
• Principles and techniques of first aid and CPR desirable.

Ability to:

• On a continuous basis, know and understand operations and observe safety rules; walk long distances; intermittently interpret policies and procedures, and explain operations and problem solve issues for the public and with staff; participate with children in games and sports activities that involve running, bending, squatting, jumping, and reaching; lean, stoop, and bend to set up or break down equipment.
• Intermittently set up booths, hang banners, move tables, chairs and carry supplies; lift or carry weight of 45 pounds or less.
• Understand and translate City policies and practices into everyday working practices; make sound decisions with solid problem solving methods.
• Respond to emergency situations in a calm and effective manner; administer first aid and CPR, if certified.
• Identify problems regarding the facility and programs; refer difficult problems/irregularities for more advanced attention and recommend possible solutions.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records.
• Understand and carry out written and oral directions.
• Work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
• Communicate effectively and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Experience and Education

• One (1) year of experience in the subject area.
• Graduation from high school or possession of a GED.

License and/or Special Requirements

Possession of, or ability to obtain, CPR and First Aid certificates.

Prior to appointment, candidates must pass a thorough background investigation and a pre-employment drug screen.