Youth & Recreation Program Specialist

Introduction

Apply NOW for year-round, part time employment!

Ideal for college students, responsible high school students, and other community members seeking fun and rewarding employment.

New Haven offers exciting programs for all children, in age groups from birth-19, including young adults from 20-24. Come be a part of it!

PRIMARY FUNCTIONS

Join our vibrant team as a Program Specialist, where you will play a pivotal role in creating enriching recreational experiences for residents of all ages throughout the city. This multifaceted position involves directing, instructing, or officiating in diverse programs that cater not only to children K-12 but also to participants of all age groups. From overseeing aquatic activities to providing coaching or officiating services, the Program Specialist contributes significantly to the inclusive and diverse recreational programming that defines our community spirit.

This is a responsible position for a mature adult to supervise and conduct classes, provide periods of instruction in coaching or officiating, order supplies, keep accurate records and work directly with the Community Recreation Supervisor in related activities.

Assignments of the Program Specialist may include :

Aerobics Instructor

Photography Instructor

Aquatics Director

Sports & Athletic Programs

Arts & Crafts Instructor

Tennis Instructor

Chess Instructor

Van Driver

Computer Instructor (S.T.E.M.)

Zumba Instructor

Dance Instructor

Some special, limited programming assignments may offer a higher rate of pay; rate based upon experience and availability of funding.

Hours of work will vary with assignment.

TYPICAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Directs, instructs, or officiates in various recreational programs, including aquatics, arts and crafts, dance, chess, photography, and more, catering to participants of all ages.
• In addition to conducting classes, the Program Specialist may be involved in coordinating specific programs, such as managing seasonal programming and events.
• Independently supervises and guides participants across various age groups.
• Help set up and organize outdoor recreational activities with others, such as assisting kayak / canoe instructors, aquatic directors, or recreation managers and supervisors.
• Engages with recreation participants or program visitors in a friendly and helpful manner, providing information about recreation and program amenities, programs, and rules.
• Assists with equipment setup and breakdown for various activities and events.
• Maintains cleanliness and orderliness of various recreation facilities and equipment.
• Follows safety protocols and guidelines to ensure the well-being of recreation program visitors and staff.
• Provides engaging and meaningful instruction, adapting to the diverse needs of participants of all age groups.
• Collaborates with fellow Program Specialists, instructors, and support staff for effective program execution.
• Maintains accurate records, including attendance, feedback, and incidents, contributing to program evaluation and improvement.
• May drive program-related vans, adhering to safety protocols and maintaining vehicle cleanliness.
• Performs related work as required.

EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

High school education or equivalent, with at least one year as a Recreation, Art / Design or Education major in an accredited institution of higher learning, or equivalent experience in a school or municipal recreational programming. Ideal candidate will have an understanding of effective small group supervision principles, recognizing the unique cultural dynamics within various age groups, and adapting leadership styles to meet the diverse needs of participants from various cultural backgrounds. Basic First Aid skills, including CPR, Heimlich Maneuver, treatment of allergic reactions, and concussion protocol.

KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Some assignments may have additional special requirements, such as :

SALARY, BARGAINING UNIT & TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

This "Non Tested" position may be General or Special Funds.

This part time or seasonal position is not eligible to receive medical benefits, vacation pay, union membership, or union contractual benefits. Any period of part time employment will not be construed in any way to mean probationary employment. Persons may not be employed in two concurrent positions with the City and / or the Board of Education at the same time.

Seasonal employment not to exceed 120 calendar days.

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of : (1) a pre-employment background check,and (2) if over 18, a pre-employment drug screening in accordance with the City's Drug Free Workplace Policy

Pursuant to the Federal Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, The City of New Haven has a adopted a Drug Free Workplace Policy. The City of New Haven requires a pre-employment drug test, which includes screening for marijuana.

Selection Plan

Applications will be reviewed by the Department of Human Resources on an ongoing basis. Applicants must demonstrate that they meet the minimum requirements as listed within the job description; failure to do so may result in disqualification.

It is critical that you complete the application thoroughly, as the information you provide will be used to determine if you are eligible to move forward in the selection process. Your application and resume should indicate that you meet the minimum requirements as listed. Submissions may be evaluated prior to a posted closing date, and a hiring decision may be made prior to the removal of the job posting.

Returning Seasonal Employees must apply via this portal; paper applications are no longer accepted.

Those persons interested in any other Parks or Public Works Seasonal employment must also apply for those positions via the corresponding JobAps portal.

Information regarding the employment and selection process can be found HERE.

Please note that the only method of communication with applicants for this position will be by email. You must provide a valid, working email address and you will need to monitor your email, including spam / junk folders, for correspondence from the New Haven Human Resources Department.

We reserve the right to extend an application deadline or close a job posting early to ensure we can attract and identify the best candidate(s) for a position.

Conclusion

To apply for this opportunity :

Please Note, your Profile is NOT an application for an open position. After you create your Applicant Profile, you must still click on a Job Title and complete the application as instructed for each position.