Sports Instructor - Recreation Services - Fall/ Winter -2026

City of Stamford; Stamford (CT); On-site; USD 22,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Stamford seeks an energetic recreation program facilitator to plan, instruct, and supervise a variety of sports and fitness activities for participants of diverse ages and skill levels.

You will interact with participants, parents, and Recreation and Parks staff, delivering engaging programs while upholding safety guidelines and quality service.

Qualifications

• Experience teaching sports to children is preferred.
• Ability to plan and lead group activities across multiple sports.
• Strong communication and customer service skills required.
• Ability to supervise groups and maintain order in active settings.
• Knowledge of safety guidelines and emergency procedures.

Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver structured sports and recreation activities matched to participant age and ability.
• Instruct participants on rules, techniques, and safety practices.
• Supervise participants to ensure a safe, inclusive environment.
• Monitor behavior and enforce program rules and safety guidelines.
• Set up, inspect, and break down equipment and activity areas.
• Maintain attendance records and communicate participant needs to supervisory staff.
• Provide courteous customer service to participants and guardians.
• Respond to incidents or emergencies per departmental procedures.
• Assist with program evaluations, special events, or additional activities as assigned.

Skills

Sports instruction

Program planning

Group supervision

Communication

Customer service

Safety awareness

Job description

Responsible for planning, instructing, and supervising a variety of recreational sports programs. Instruction may include multiple sports, outdoor recreation activities, and/or fitness-based programming for participants of varying ages and skill levels. The incumbent performs general program duties to ensure safe, organized, and engaging recreational experiences. Work involves frequent interaction with program participants, parents/guardians, and Recreation and Parks staff, requiring strong communication and customer service skills.

• Plan and deliver structured sports and recreation activities appropriate to participant age and ability levels
• Instruct participants on basic rules, techniques, and safety practices across assigned sports or activities
• Supervise participants to ensure a safe, inclusive, and positive program environment
• Monitor participant behavior and enforce program rules and safety guidelines
• Set up, inspect, and break down equipment and activity areas before and after programs
• Maintain attendance records and communicate participant needs or concerns to supervisory staff
• Provide courteous and professional customer service to participants and parents/guardians
• Respond appropriately to incidents, injuries, or emergencies in accordance with departmental procedures
• Assist with program evaluations, special events, or additional recreation activities as assigned

• Knowledge of basic principles, rules, and techniques related to recreational sports and activities
• Ability to plan, organize, and lead group activities across multiple sports or programs
• Ability to communicate effectively with participants, parents/guardians, and staff
• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills
• Ability to supervise groups and maintain order in active program settings
• Ability to follow established policies, procedures, and safety guidelines
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and as part of a team
• Ability to respond calmly and effectively in emergency situations

• Must be at least 18 years old
• Knowledge of and experience in teaching Sports and gym games to children ages 5-13.
• Any equivalent combination of education, training, or experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties of the position
• Experience working in recreation, sports instruction, coaching, or youth programs is preferred. Availability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as required
• Must possess a valid driver's license
• Reliable mode of transportation needed.

Working Conditions

• Work is performed primarily in a camp or recreational program setting.
• Requires standing, supervising children, and handling arts and crafts materials.
• Must be able to participate in indoor and outdoor camp activities.