Program Specialist (Parks and Recreation)

Program Specialist (Parks and Recreation)

The City of Athens is hiring a Program Specialist (Park and Recreation). The Program Specialist (Parks and Recreation) develops plans, implements, and evaluates recreation and aquatics related programs, initiatives, and special events. Primary duties change with the operation of a seasonal aquatics facility. For 5-6 months of each year, this position is focused on recruiting, hiring, training, scheduling, supervising, and programming the aquatics facility. Each season we hire around 80 seasonal aquatics staff, and this position manages our aquatics staff. Throughout the off-season, this position is responsible for planning and implementing our award-winning Halloween Event and our other family friendly community events. This position will also be responsible for developing other outdoor recreation related programs and activities. Supervises the scheduling of employees and programs. This position is in the classified service of the City, requires a six month probationary period, and is covered by the Fair Labor Standards Act.

This position is in Pay Grade 5 of the Non-Union pay scale with a range of $23.01 - $31.06 per hour with a target starting range of $23.01 - $25.02 per hour. The normal schedule is 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday – Friday. However, the normal schedule can change based on the seasonal activities associated with this position. The regular reporting location will be at the Community Center, 701 E. State St., Athens, OH 45701.

Employees enjoy a generous benefits package such as:

• Paid holidays
• Sick leave
• Vacation time
• A comprehensive health insurance plan (including but not limited to prescription, vision, dental, and life insurance)
• Public employee pension match of 14%
• A fitness center membership.

A Civil Service Exam will be administered for this position on Friday, March 7th, 2025 at 10 am at the Community Center, 701 E. State St., Athens, OH 45701. Applicants must show a valid, government issued Picture ID for entry to the test. Applicants must achieve a minimum passing score of 70% on the exam. To be eligible for military credit, a copy of the DD-214 showing honorable discharge must be submitted with the application packet. Members of the National Guard are also eligible for 15% credit. Military or National Guard credit is only applied to a passing score. No further notice will be given about the exam. General inquires may be sent to Human Resources via email: HumanResources@ci.athens.oh.us or by calling: 740-592-3367.

Applications must be received by 4 pm on Wednesday, March 5th, 2025 to be eligible to sit for the examination.

Essential Functions:

• Develops, organizes, supervises and evaluates recreation programs, aquatics programs, and special events.
• Supervises and manages the Athens City Pool and related aquatics events and programs.
• Coordinates off-site programs and community initiatives.
• Enforces rules of facilities, equipment use and programs.
• Assists with budget preparation and report writing.
• Interviews and recommends applicants for staff positions as applicable and needed.
• Orders equipment and supplies for programs within budget limitations.
• Writes grant applications.
• Coordinates fundraising activities and promotes interest in programs and initiatives.
• Works with interns and volunteers to help achieve departmental and programmatic goals.
• Manages a seasonal staff of around 80.
• Assumes other responsibilities and performs other related duties as needed.

Position Specifications and Qualifications:

• Meet the attendance requirements of the position, which include some evenings and weekends.
• Standing, walking, sitting, lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling up to 50 pounds.
• Frequent direct or telephone/email communications with members of the public and city staff.
• Occasional visual observation at both near and far distances.
• Work both inside and outside in varying climatic conditions.
• Frequent writing, math calculations, problem solving, reading, proofreading, reasoning, and analyzing.
• Excellent written, oral, organizational and interpersonal communications skills.
• Ability to interact and communicate with others, including staff and members of the public.
• Knowledge of personal computers using scheduling software and Microsoft applications.
• Basic knowledge of safe chemical handling procedures, specifically aquatics related chemicals.
• Knowledge of or willingness to learn the functions of operating an aquatics facility.
• American Red Cross Lifeguard or American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor certified or willingness to do so within the first year of employment.
• Certified in First Aid and CPR or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire.
• A minimum of two years of experience in a recreation department developing, implementing, and supervising programs for various age groups.
• Possession of a valid Ohio driver’s license and an acceptable driving record.
• AFO certification or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire.
• Bachelor in Exercise Physiology, Physical Education, Recreation Studies, Education or Family Studies or Sports Management from an accredited college or university is preferred but not required.
• Previous aquatics management preferred.

The city may consider any other equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

A background check is required post-offer.

New hires are required to be certified in First Aid and CPR at the time of the next available class.

The City of Athens, OH is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

We prefer applicants apply online; however, paper applications are available upon request. Please call Human Resources at 740-592-3367 if you need to request a paper application.