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Recreation Specialist

City of Olympia, WA
Olympia, WA Full Time
POSTED ON 3/4/2025
AVAILABLE BEFORE 4/26/2025
Position: Seasonal Recreation Specialist (Assistant)
Salary: $19.64 - $23.87 per hour
Opening Date: March 3, 2025
Closing Date: April 6, 2025, 5:00 PM
About Us
The Olympia Parks, Arts, and Recreation Department is committed to creating enriching experiences for the Olympia community. We strive to build a diverse and inclusive workforce, and we strongly encourage individuals from historically underrepresented groups—such as Black, Indigenous, people of color, transgender, non-binary, LGBTQ individuals, immigrants, people with disabilities, and women—to apply.
Position Overview
We are seeking Seasonal Recreation Specialists (also referred to as "Assistants") to support our summer youth programs. These positions are essential to the success of our summer camps, which serve children and teens ages 3-18. In this role, you will help plan and lead activities in arts and crafts, sports, field games, cooking, and special events, all while providing a safe and enjoyable environment for campers.
As a team member, you will contribute to the department's mission of connecting people to quality recreational experiences that enhance their lives, whether by leading activities or assisting with day-to-day camp operations.
Key Responsibilities
  • Supervise and engage campers (ages 3-18) during a variety of recreational activities, both indoors and outdoors.
  • Plan, organize, and prepare materials for arts and crafts, sports, games, and other recreational activities.
  • Assist in implementing family and adult outdoor trips as needed, including providing general support and leadership.
  • Ensure appropriate supervision, discipline, and behavior management of campers.
  • Communicate with parents/guardians about camper behavior and progress as needed.
  • Work collaboratively with other team members to deliver fun, safe, and engaging activities.
  • Assist in setting up and cleaning program areas, equipment, and supplies.
  • Monitor camper conduct to ensure compliance with safety standards and behavior guidelines.
  • Provide outstanding customer service to participants, parents, and other staff members.
Hours and Schedule
  • This is a temporary, seasonal position with hours ranging from 20 to 40 hours per week.
  • Typical shifts will be Monday to Friday, 8-9 hours per day.
  • Evening and weekend shifts may be required, depending on program needs.
  • Camps are based at Olympia School District Elementary Schools and City of Olympia Parks.
Ideal Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate will:
  • Have experience working with children in recreational or educational settings.
  • Be available to work throughout the summer (June to August).
  • Be able to work effectively as part of a team.
  • Demonstrate strong communication skills, with the ability to work well with children, parents, and co-workers.
  • Have the ability to follow program guidelines and enforce safety and behavior policies.
  • Be passionate about fostering inclusive environments that celebrate diversity and equity.
  • Hold a valid driver’s license and be willing to drive and back up trailers in certain cases (not required for all positions).
Minimum Qualifications
  • Must be at least 18 years old by the start of employment.
  • Prior experience working with children is preferred.
  • Ability to work in a team and communicate effectively with diverse groups of people.
  • Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Must be able to lift and carry recreational equipment as needed.
  • Must successfully pass a criminal background check in accordance with the Child and Adult Abuse Act (RCW 43.43).
To Apply
  • Complete the online application in full. Resumes and cover letters will not be reviewed.
  • Be sure to answer the supplemental questions, which will help assess your skills, interests, and qualifications for the position.
  • The application deadline is April 6, 2025, at 5:00 PM.
  • Only electronic applications will be accepted.
Contact Information
For questions about the position or the application process, please contact Luke Burns at (360) 570-5857 or by email at lburns@ci.olympia.wa.us.
Success Factors
The successful candidate will demonstrate:
  • Knowledge of recreational activities, sports, and programs for children.
  • Strong interpersonal skills, including conflict resolution and effective communication.
  • Ability to create and maintain a positive and safe environment for youth.
  • Ability to organize activities and maintain attention to safety.
  • Flexibility and adaptability to changing schedules and responsibilities.
  • Consistent punctuality, regular attendance, and reliability.
Examples of Essential Duties
  • Assist in organizing, leading, and monitoring recreational activities for children and teens in various locations throughout Olympia.
  • Provide excellent customer service, answering questions and offering assistance to participants, parents, and other staff.
  • Set up and break down recreational equipment and program materials as needed.
  • Ensure that safety regulations are followed and that activities are carried out in a safe, enjoyable manner.
  • Maintain accurate records related to program activities, participant attendance, and equipment inventory.
  • Perform custodial duties, including cleaning and organizing program spaces.
Union:
Independents
Compensation (minimum-maximum):
$19.64 - $23.87
Exempt:
No

The City of Olympia complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact Nicole Camus, Deputy Human Resources Director, at 360.753.8213 or
ncamus@ci.olympia.wa.us
. This contact is for ADA accommodations only. If you have questions regarding this recruitment, please contact the manager noted in the Contact section near the top of this recruitment.
For general application or position questions please contact the hiring supervisor or Human Resources at humanresources@ci.olympia.wa.us.

Join the City of Olympia team!

Olympia is a vibrant, healthy and beautiful Capital City and a great place to work, live and play.
The City of Olympia provides competitive pay, great benefits, and supports work-life balance. We are an equal opportunity employer strongly committed to honoring diversity, equity and belonging within our workforce and community. Please consider bringing your talents to the City of Olympia, where we value compassion, integrity and effectiveness in our work to make a difference every day.

Salary : $20 - $24

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