What are the responsibilities and job description for the Inclusion Specialist position at Apex Park and Recreation District?
Position Summary, Duties and Responsibilities
The Inclusion Specialist plays a vital role in Apex Park and Recreation District Summer Camps by ensuring that all campers—regardless of ability, background, or individual needs—are supported in having a safe, inclusive, and successful camp experience. This position supports campers who may have diagnosed or undiagnosed disabilities, mental or behavioral health challenges, difficulty adjusting to camp routines, or who come from diverse or challenging life circumstances. The Inclusion Specialist is an integral part of Apex Park and Recreation District’s commitment to inclusive recreation and continues to evolve to meet the growing and diverse needs of our camper population. Inclusion Specialists work collaboratively with families, Camp Counselors, and camp leadership to develop and implement individualized support plans for campers who require additional assistance. These plans are shared with staff and utilized throughout the camper’s time at camp. Inclusion Specialists observe, mentor, coach, and, when necessary, provide direct support to both campers and staff. By offering specialized support, Inclusion Specialists allow Camp Counselors to focus on serving the entire group while ensuring campers with additional needs receive the individualized support they need to thrive.
Key Responsibilities
Camper Support & Inclusion
- Support campers with behavioral, social, emotional, mental health, physical, or developmental needs
- Promote successful participation in all summer camp activities
- Provide direct support, modeling, and intervention as needed
- Foster a positive, welcoming, and inclusive camp culture
- Observe campers in a variety of camp settings to identify areas of need
- Collaborate with families, Camp Counselors, and camp leadership to gather relevant information
- Develop individualized inclusion plans with clear goals and support strategies
- Adjust plans as needed based on camper progress and ongoing observation
Recommend and implement appropriate accommodations, which may include:
- Additional support during physical or group activities
- Extra time or assistance during transitions
- Support during high-noise or high-stimulation activities
- Sensory, behavioral, or social-emotional strategies
- Educate and collaborate with Camp Counselors on individualized inclusion plans
- Coach and mentor staff on behavior support and inclusion strategies
- Support staff in identifying emerging or unmet camper needs
- Maintain open, professional, and respectful communication with families
- Share goals, strategies, and camper progress while maintaining confidentiality
- Maintain accurate and confidential camper documentation
- Track goals and progress throughout the camp session
- Ensure required consent forms and documentation are completed in accordance with district policies
Job Qualifications
- Must be at least eighteen (18) years of age
- Demonstrate ability to work with children.
- Will receive CPR/first aid, Medication Administration, and Universal Precautions certification required within 90 days of hire.
- Must complete up to 15 hours of training before May 29, 2026.
- 'Must have a satisfactory review with the Central Registry of Child Protection.
- Provide three references.
This position is well-suited for individuals pursuing or working in behavioral health, counseling, education, psychology, social work, recreation therapy, or related fields. It is also ideal for those with experience supporting youth with diverse needs who are seeking meaningful, hands-on experience in an inclusive camp and recreation environment.
Education and Experience
- High School diploma required.
- Valid Colorado driver's license, appropriate insurance coverage, and clean driving record for the past three years.
- Experience taking care of children ages 8 to 12 years in a public atmosphere is required.
- Must have customer service experience and good conflict management skills.
- Knowledge of youth games, activities, and arts and crafts projects is also desired.
- Associate is expected to exhibit the district's core values of Honesty, Attitude, Loyalty and Teamwork
Work Environment
- Work may take place in both indoor and outdoor environments, with exposure to varying weather conditions including sun, heat, cold, snow, and humidity.
- Noise levels range from moderate to loud, often due to active children, group interactions, or busy transportation settings.
- The position may involve exposure to cleaning chemicals, chemically treated water, or other environmental irritants.
- Work may occur in environments with poor acoustics, distractions, or high activity levels.
- Occasional travel by vehicle may be required, with exposure to traffic, road construction, and varying road conditions.
- Some tasks will be performed in wet, humid, or damp environments, such as pools or aquatic facilities.
- Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull objects and equipment weighing up to 50 lbs.
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the workday.
- Ability to stoop, kneel, crouch, bend, or sit on the floor as needed during activities or tasks.
- Ability to reach, grasp, and handle small objects, tools, or equipment with precision.
- Ability to climb, crawl, or maneuver in tight spaces to complete maintenance or activity-related tasks.
- Requires adequate hearing to recognize and respond to sounds, signals, or distress in a variety of environments.
- Ability to maintain balance and coordination while assisting with physical activities or working on uneven terrain.
NOTE: This job announcement outlines the primary responsibilities, but there’s always room to grow and shine as part of our team. This position may be involved in additional exciting projects as assigned.
We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage qualified individuals from all backgrounds, including women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans, to apply. Our organization values the unique perspectives and experiences that a diverse workforce brings, and we are dedicated to creating an environment where everyone feels valued and respected.