Recreation Specialist (Events)

Recreation Specialist (Events)
Join our team and bring the community together through exciting events!

At Lancaster Rec, we are dedicated to creating inclusive, engaging, and memorable experiences for our community. We’re seeking a passionate and organized Recreation Specialist (Events) to plan and execute signature events such as Open Streets, Lancaster Beer Gardens, RectoberFest, and the Lancaster Unity Cup. If you thrive in event planning, love working with the community, and have a creative mindset, this opportunity is for you!

Position Highlights

Pay: $16.83 - $21.63 per hour

Schedule: Full-time, with evening and weekend hours required for events

Location: Lancaster Rec Office & various event locations

Perks: Professional development opportunities, collaborative team environment, and the chance to shape community experiences

What You’ll Do

As a Recreation Specialist (Events), you will play a key role in bringing high-quality events to life for Lancaster residents. Your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

Event Planning & Execution

• Plan, organize, and execute large-scale community events, including Open Streets, Lancaster Beer Gardens, RectoberFest, and the Lancaster Unity Cup.
• Develop event concepts that align with community interests and organizational goals.
• Coordinate all logistics, including site selection, permits, vendor arrangements, entertainment booking, site setup, and event breakdown.
• Work closely with city departments, emergency services, and key stakeholders to ensure all necessary approvals and compliance with safety regulations.
• Recruit, train, and manage event volunteers to ensure smooth execution.
• Develop contingency plans and troubleshoot issues in real time to ensure successful events.

Community Engagement & Partnerships

• Build and maintain relationships with local businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations to enhance event sponsorships, partnerships, and participation.
• Act as a liaison between Lancaster Rec and the community to ensure events reflect local needs and interests.
• Represent Lancaster Rec at public forums, meetings, and networking opportunities to promote events and initiatives.

Innovation & New Event Development

• Research and develop new event concepts that foster inclusivity, engagement, and cultural enrichment within Lancaster.
• Utilize community feedback, market trends, and data to inform event planning and programming.
• Pilot smaller-scale events that can evolve into signature programs over time.

Marketing & Promotion

• Collaborate with the marketing team to create promotional materials, social media campaigns, and outreach strategies for events.
• Develop marketing plans that maximize attendance and community participation.
• Coordinate media relations, press releases, and event photography/videography needs.

Administrative & Budgetary Duties

• Develop and manage event budgets, ensuring cost-effective program delivery.
• Maintain accurate records for events, including participation numbers, vendor contracts, and post-event evaluations.
• Provide reports and recommendations to the Director of Recreation based on event outcomes and community impact.
• Attain and maintain proficiency in Daxko Recreation Software for event tracking and management.
• Assist with other duties as needed within the Recreation Department to support overall programming and community engagement efforts.

Why Join Us?

• Work in a supportive and collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth.
• Lead some of the most exciting and impactful community events in Lancaster.
• Build strong relationships with community partners and make a lasting difference.

What We’re Looking For

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Event Planning, Recreation Management, Public Administration, or a related field.
• Experience: Minimum of 3 years in event planning, recreation programming, or community engagement.
• Skills: Strong organizational and time-management skills, excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, and a proactive approach to event planning.
• Technical Proficiency: Experience with Microsoft Office Suite and event planning or recreation management software.
• Certifications: Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) preferred; valid driver’s license required.
• Work Environment: Office-based with frequent on-site work at events, including evenings and weekends. Some physical activity required.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $35,000.00 - $45,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Holidays
• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Application Question(s):

• Are you a Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) or willing to pursue certification?
• Must have or be able to pass all required background clearances.

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Lancaster, PA 17603: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $35,000 - $45,000