Recreation specialist Jobs in Independence, MO

Blue Springs Parks and Recreation Department Job Opportunity

The Blue Springs Parks and Recreation Department is seeking a highly self-motivated professional to oversee camps, family special events, and general programming. Responsibilities include : planning, organizing, scheduling, coordinating, and implementing recreational activities, events, and classes; selecting, training, supervising, and evaluating part-time / seasonal staff and volunteers to support the recreation program area; securing, scheduling, and preparing recreation facilities; preparing promotional program information for distribution; assisting with and monitoring a budget for assigned program area; preparing program evaluations and other related reports; and participating in local, state, and national organizations related to assigned program areas.

Assist with marketing and advertising for events and programs. Plans for day camps including Winter Break, Spring Break and Summer Break family special events and instructional classes

Responsible for the written communication and marketing of recreation activities and events.

Monitors recreation programs and facilities.

Responsible for the cultivation of partners and sponsors for recreation programs and facilities. Oversees the expenditure of approved funds within the assigned budget area. Seeks alternative funding sources such as grants, partnerships agreements, and sponsorships.

Recruits, interviews, and hires personnel for assigned divisions, and includes training, scheduling, and coordination staff and volunteers.

Creates and maintains a system of reporting, interpreting, and publicizing activities, and programs to area residents. Prepare materials, maintain records, and compiles evaluations and reports.

Assists with or coordinates the planning and organization of special community events.

Works with the community to identify needs and preferences and recommends the number and kinds of recreation programs to be offered.

Meets and coordinates with community interest groups concerning recreation activities.

Maintains inventory of supplies and equipment. Places orders and makes purchases according to established procedures and within budgetary guidelines.

Other duties as assigned.

Blue Springs, MO is a suburb of Kansas City, MO sitting on the eastern city limits and is a community of approximately 61,246 residents. The Department has been in the process of offering a wide range of community recreation programs as well as revitalizing parks and facilities, investing over $15 million in improvements to current park facilities within the community. In April 2021, residents approved a sales tax dedicated to park improvements, parkland development, and operation subsidy. The measure passed with an 80% yes vote, demonstrating the support the community has for the Parks and Recreation Department, and the improvements made over the last five years to our program offerings and facilities. Over the next ten years the department will undergo a major transformation including a new 45-acre community park and innovative improvements to playgrounds, trails, shelters, athletic fields, and several other park amenities. This unique career opportunity offers the successful candidate the opportunity to be part of a total department transformation providing endless opportunities for personal and professional development.

The normal work schedule for this position is Monday through Friday from 8 : 00 to 5 : 00 p.m. and requires flexibility to work some evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Skills and Qualifications :

CPRP preferred; bachelor's degree in Parks and Recreation or administration or related field is the minimum educational requirements

One or more years of experience in developing Parks and Recreation programs is strongly preferred. May be required to hold certain certifications such as First Aid and CPR, or Certified Parks and Recreation Professional.

Knowledge of professional principles, practices, and techniques of recreation planning, programming, and evaluation.

Knowledge of the rules, supplies, equipment, and facilities applied or utilized in recreation programs and sporting leagues is required.

Knowledge of the safety issues and precautions relating to recreation programs and sporting leagues.

Skilled in developing, coordinating and evaluating a broad range of recreational programming for diverse age groups.

Skilled in public relations and customer service.

Strong written and oral communication skills.

Ability to communicate effectively and present ideas orally as well as in writing.

Competencies Ability to organize, plan, and direct the work of subordinate staff; ability to prepare and maintain accurate records and reports; ability to identify trends, program needs, and opportunities within the recreation field; knowledge of recreational and senior programs; knowledge of the principles and practices of recreational program management.

Physical Requirements Must be able to sit, stand, walk, talk, and hear frequently; must be able to frequently use hands to operate, finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or office machines; must be able to frequently reach with hands and arms; must be able to occasionally lift, move, push, pull, or transport up to 50 pounds at least 25 feet; must have close vision and the ability to adjust focus frequently. Most work is performed in a modern office setting, which is usually moderately quiet; other work is performed in various aquatic, athletic, recreational, or performing arts settings where noise levels are frequently moderate to loud, and occasionally loud.

Supervisory Responsibility supervision to assigned professional, clerical, and volunteer staff