What are the responsibilities and job description for the Activity Specialist (Temporary/Part-Time) position at City of Downey?
About The Position
NOTE: This recruitment is open on a continuous basis until the needs of the Department are met and may close without prior notice.
Current available position for SEASONAL Day Camps (Spring Break, Summer, Thanksgiving Break, Winter Break, and some single holidays or student free days). However, applicants may be considered for future openings in other program areas as needed.
Day Camps (Seasonal): Supervises, plans, and implements weekly activities for Day Camp Youth ages 6-14 years of age. Oversee one camp location held at a park facility. Camp operates Monday - Friday from 7am - 6pm during the school intersessions for Downey Unified School District. Staff will be scheduled February 16-20, April 6 - 10, June 8 - August 7, November 24-26, December 21 - 30.
The Activity Specialist position is responsible for organizing and scheduling camps activities such as sports, crafts, games, special event days, walking filed trips and bus excursions. Supervises, evaluates, trains and disciplines part-time employees. Provides lead direction to Recreation Leaders; assign tasks and duties and monitor performance evaluations; enforce all City policies and procedures. Ensures staff are conducting safe activities and supervising appropriately. Assists if there are any injuries. Surveys the utilized park areas, playground, and building and report any damage, hazards, etc. Ensures that Camps leaves these areas clean at the end of day/use. Assists staff with youth behavior challenges and coaches staff through strategies. Assists in the creation and the distribution of publicity materials; newsletter, flyers, social media postings and updating the announcement board. Schedules working hours for part-time recreation staff and ensures hours match online payroll for assigned personnel. Maintains records and develops reports concerning new or ongoing programs and program effectiveness. Speaks to parents to disseminate information and to hear and address concerns.
TEMPORARY/PART-TIME APPOINTMENTS: Work hours are flexible for an average of twenty (20) hours per week. Part-Time shifts may not exceed 999 hours on a fiscal year basis (July 1 through June 30).
Temporary/Part-time appointments do not qualify for City benefits, except for those required by law. The City does not belong to the Social Security system; however, enrollment in an alternative retirement program is mandatory which requires an employee contribution of 7.5% of base earnings. The City contributes 2.5% and the employee contributes 5% of base earnings. There are no rights to employment and employment may end with or without cause or advance notice.
Certain City operational budgets may not include funding for mandated CalPERS employer contributions; therefore, a qualified candidate who is a current member of CalPERS may be restricted from temporary/part-time employment with the City of Downey.
Examples Of Essential Functions
The following examples are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by persons assigned to this classification.
Depending on assignment, duties may include but are not limited to the following:
Any combination of education, training, and work experience to demonstrate possession of the knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform in the position is qualifying. A typical combination is as follows:
Education: High School graduate or equivalent.
Experience: One to two (1-2) years of experience in the recreation field. Experience in the implementation of recreational activities is desirable.
Knowledge of: Correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary; interpersonal skills using tact, patience, and courtesy; principals and applications of the Microsoft Office Applications including Word and Excel.
Ability to: Communicate clearly and effectively, orally and in writing and maintain effective relationships with public and staff; understand and follow oral and written directions; and work cooperatively with others; provide leadership; work with minimum supervision; and plan and organize their work and the work of others.
License/Certification: A California Class C Driver's License or the ability to utilize an alternative method of transportation when needed to carry out job-related essential functions may be required.
California Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) Pull Notice System: An incumbent appointed to certain positions are subject to enrollment in the California DMV Pull Notice Program. The Pull Notice program provides information on the incumbent's driving record and Driver's License status on a periodic basis to the City of Downey. An employee assigned a City vehicle must acknowledge receipt and understanding of City Administrative Regulations covering the use of City vehicles.
Physical Tasks and Environmental Conditions: While performing the essential functions of this job, the incumbent is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects; ascend and descend stairs; maintain body equilibrium to prevent falling when walking, standing, crouching, or running; move about on hands and knees; bend body downward and forward, requiring full use of the lower extremities and back muscles; reach with hands and arms; speak and hear; and push, pull and/or lift 10 to 25 pounds frequently and up to 50 pounds occasionally. bend at the waist; kneel; sit, stand and walk for extended periods of time.
Additional Information
All applications materials received by the application deadline will be reviewed and evaluated on the basis of information submitted to determine the level and scope of the candidate's preparation for the position. All information supplied by applicants is subject to verification.
Those applicants, who most closely match the desired qualifications, will be invited to participate in the examination process, which will consist of an appraisal examination weighted 100%. The appraisal examination may consist of performance testing and/or an oral interview to assess the applicant's knowledge, education, experience, and general ability to perform the essential functions of the position.
Training for all selected applicants will be conducted: February 14, April 4, May 16, May 30, June 5, June 6, November 21, and December 19. Attendance is mandatory.
Candidate(s) who complete testing with acceptable results will be considered by the Department hiring authority. Prior to an employment offer, a comprehensive background investigation is conducted, including fingerprinting. A pre-placement medical examination, including a drug screen will be conducted upon issuance of a conditional offer of employment.
Temporary/Part-Time Appointments: Temporary/Part-time appointments do not qualify for City benefits, except for those required by law. The City does not belong to the Social Security system. However, enrollment in an alternative retirement program is mandatory which requires an employee contribution of 7.5% of base earnings. The City contributes 2.5% and the employee contributes 5% of base earnings. There are no rights to employment and employment may end with or without cause or advance notice.
Part-time shifts may not exceed 999 hours on a fiscal year basis (July 1 through June 30).
Certain City operational budgets may not include funding for mandates CalPERS employer contributions. Therefore, a qualified candidate who is a current member of CalPERS may be restricted from temporary/part-time employment.
The City of Downey is proudly committed to continuously improving the quality of life for the Downey community by providing excellent service in a professional, ethical, and responsible manner. Our values include Integrity, Commitment, Respect, Teamwork, Engagement, Passion, and Excellence.
01
Which of the following best describes your highest level of education?
Are you currently enrolled in an accredited college or university with major coursework in recreation administration or related field?
If "Yes" to Question 2 what type of coursework have you completed?
04
If hired, at the time of appointment would you be 18 years of age or more?
Which of the following best describes your years of experience in youth (ages 6-12) program planning and implementation
Please briefly describe your experience and include the name of employer(s)/organization, position title, and length of experience.
07
Which of the following best describes your years of experience in the selection, training, and supervision of personnel?
Please briefly describe your experience and include the name of employer(s)/organization, position title, and length of experience.
09
Are you available weekday afternoons and evenings, weekends and holidays?
Please check all camp dates that you can work (check all that apply):
For the following questions please provide the hours you are available to work each day. For example : Monday 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. If you are not able to work on a certain day please indicate "Not Available or N/A." Monday
12
Tuesday
13
Wednesday
14
Thursday
15
Friday
16
When is the schedule of your availability above expected to change? Please provide a "best estimate" date (MM/DD/YY).
17
Mandatory staff training will be conducted February 14, April 4, May 16, May 30, June 5, June 6, November 21, and December 19. Will you be available to attend this training?
Do you fluently speak and/or write any language(s) other than English?
If "Yes" which language(s)?
20
Are you currently or have you even been a member of the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) through your employment with a previous public sector agency?
If "Yes", please indicate what agency(s) you are/were employed with and include the dates (mm/dd/yr) of employment under CalPERS.
NOTE: This recruitment is open on a continuous basis until the needs of the Department are met and may close without prior notice.
Current available position for SEASONAL Day Camps (Spring Break, Summer, Thanksgiving Break, Winter Break, and some single holidays or student free days). However, applicants may be considered for future openings in other program areas as needed.
Day Camps (Seasonal): Supervises, plans, and implements weekly activities for Day Camp Youth ages 6-14 years of age. Oversee one camp location held at a park facility. Camp operates Monday - Friday from 7am - 6pm during the school intersessions for Downey Unified School District. Staff will be scheduled February 16-20, April 6 - 10, June 8 - August 7, November 24-26, December 21 - 30.
The Activity Specialist position is responsible for organizing and scheduling camps activities such as sports, crafts, games, special event days, walking filed trips and bus excursions. Supervises, evaluates, trains and disciplines part-time employees. Provides lead direction to Recreation Leaders; assign tasks and duties and monitor performance evaluations; enforce all City policies and procedures. Ensures staff are conducting safe activities and supervising appropriately. Assists if there are any injuries. Surveys the utilized park areas, playground, and building and report any damage, hazards, etc. Ensures that Camps leaves these areas clean at the end of day/use. Assists staff with youth behavior challenges and coaches staff through strategies. Assists in the creation and the distribution of publicity materials; newsletter, flyers, social media postings and updating the announcement board. Schedules working hours for part-time recreation staff and ensures hours match online payroll for assigned personnel. Maintains records and develops reports concerning new or ongoing programs and program effectiveness. Speaks to parents to disseminate information and to hear and address concerns.
TEMPORARY/PART-TIME APPOINTMENTS: Work hours are flexible for an average of twenty (20) hours per week. Part-Time shifts may not exceed 999 hours on a fiscal year basis (July 1 through June 30).
Temporary/Part-time appointments do not qualify for City benefits, except for those required by law. The City does not belong to the Social Security system; however, enrollment in an alternative retirement program is mandatory which requires an employee contribution of 7.5% of base earnings. The City contributes 2.5% and the employee contributes 5% of base earnings. There are no rights to employment and employment may end with or without cause or advance notice.
Certain City operational budgets may not include funding for mandated CalPERS employer contributions; therefore, a qualified candidate who is a current member of CalPERS may be restricted from temporary/part-time employment with the City of Downey.
Examples Of Essential Functions
The following examples are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by persons assigned to this classification.
Depending on assignment, duties may include but are not limited to the following:
- Coordinates, promotes, implements and evaluates recreation activities as assigned.
- Organizes and schedules leisure time activities such as senior programming, and special programs or citywide events and special sports programs or events.
- Recommends and assists in the selection, supervision, evaluation and training of assigned part-time recreation staff.
- Prepares or coordinates the development of event publicity, including news releases, flyers, pamphlets and brochures.
- Schedules working hours for part-time recreation staff.
- Administers and coordinates payroll duties for assigned personnel.
- Participates in the development of the annual budget for a recreation activity or group of activities.
- Maintains records and develops reports concerning new or ongoing programs and program effectiveness.
- Maintains inventory of supplies and equipment, and distributes as needed.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
Any combination of education, training, and work experience to demonstrate possession of the knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform in the position is qualifying. A typical combination is as follows:
Education: High School graduate or equivalent.
Experience: One to two (1-2) years of experience in the recreation field. Experience in the implementation of recreational activities is desirable.
Knowledge of: Correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary; interpersonal skills using tact, patience, and courtesy; principals and applications of the Microsoft Office Applications including Word and Excel.
Ability to: Communicate clearly and effectively, orally and in writing and maintain effective relationships with public and staff; understand and follow oral and written directions; and work cooperatively with others; provide leadership; work with minimum supervision; and plan and organize their work and the work of others.
License/Certification: A California Class C Driver's License or the ability to utilize an alternative method of transportation when needed to carry out job-related essential functions may be required.
California Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) Pull Notice System: An incumbent appointed to certain positions are subject to enrollment in the California DMV Pull Notice Program. The Pull Notice program provides information on the incumbent's driving record and Driver's License status on a periodic basis to the City of Downey. An employee assigned a City vehicle must acknowledge receipt and understanding of City Administrative Regulations covering the use of City vehicles.
Physical Tasks and Environmental Conditions: While performing the essential functions of this job, the incumbent is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects; ascend and descend stairs; maintain body equilibrium to prevent falling when walking, standing, crouching, or running; move about on hands and knees; bend body downward and forward, requiring full use of the lower extremities and back muscles; reach with hands and arms; speak and hear; and push, pull and/or lift 10 to 25 pounds frequently and up to 50 pounds occasionally. bend at the waist; kneel; sit, stand and walk for extended periods of time.
Additional Information
All applications materials received by the application deadline will be reviewed and evaluated on the basis of information submitted to determine the level and scope of the candidate's preparation for the position. All information supplied by applicants is subject to verification.
Those applicants, who most closely match the desired qualifications, will be invited to participate in the examination process, which will consist of an appraisal examination weighted 100%. The appraisal examination may consist of performance testing and/or an oral interview to assess the applicant's knowledge, education, experience, and general ability to perform the essential functions of the position.
Training for all selected applicants will be conducted: February 14, April 4, May 16, May 30, June 5, June 6, November 21, and December 19. Attendance is mandatory.
Candidate(s) who complete testing with acceptable results will be considered by the Department hiring authority. Prior to an employment offer, a comprehensive background investigation is conducted, including fingerprinting. A pre-placement medical examination, including a drug screen will be conducted upon issuance of a conditional offer of employment.
Temporary/Part-Time Appointments: Temporary/Part-time appointments do not qualify for City benefits, except for those required by law. The City does not belong to the Social Security system. However, enrollment in an alternative retirement program is mandatory which requires an employee contribution of 7.5% of base earnings. The City contributes 2.5% and the employee contributes 5% of base earnings. There are no rights to employment and employment may end with or without cause or advance notice.
Part-time shifts may not exceed 999 hours on a fiscal year basis (July 1 through June 30).
Certain City operational budgets may not include funding for mandates CalPERS employer contributions. Therefore, a qualified candidate who is a current member of CalPERS may be restricted from temporary/part-time employment.
The City of Downey is proudly committed to continuously improving the quality of life for the Downey community by providing excellent service in a professional, ethical, and responsible manner. Our values include Integrity, Commitment, Respect, Teamwork, Engagement, Passion, and Excellence.
01
Which of the following best describes your highest level of education?
- High School graduate or equivalent
- Some College
- Associate's Degree
- Bachelor's Degree
- Coursework beyond Bachelor's Degree
- Master's Degree or higher
Are you currently enrolled in an accredited college or university with major coursework in recreation administration or related field?
- Yes
- No
If "Yes" to Question 2 what type of coursework have you completed?
04
If hired, at the time of appointment would you be 18 years of age or more?
- Yes
- No
Which of the following best describes your years of experience in youth (ages 6-12) program planning and implementation
- None
- None to six (6) months of experience
- Six (6) to one (1) year of experience
- One (1) to two (2) years of experience
- Two (2) to three (3) years of experience
- Three (3) or more years of experience
Please briefly describe your experience and include the name of employer(s)/organization, position title, and length of experience.
07
Which of the following best describes your years of experience in the selection, training, and supervision of personnel?
- None
- None to six (6) months of experience
- Six (6) months to one (1) year of experience
- One (1) to two (2) years of experience
- Two (2) or more years of experience
Please briefly describe your experience and include the name of employer(s)/organization, position title, and length of experience.
09
Are you available weekday afternoons and evenings, weekends and holidays?
- Yes
- No
Please check all camp dates that you can work (check all that apply):
- February 16 - 20
- Spring Break: April 3 - 10
- Summer: June 8 - August 7
- Thanksgiving Camp: November 23 - 25
- Winter Break Camp: December 21 - 30
For the following questions please provide the hours you are available to work each day. For example : Monday 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. If you are not able to work on a certain day please indicate "Not Available or N/A." Monday
12
Tuesday
13
Wednesday
14
Thursday
15
Friday
16
When is the schedule of your availability above expected to change? Please provide a "best estimate" date (MM/DD/YY).
17
Mandatory staff training will be conducted February 14, April 4, May 16, May 30, June 5, June 6, November 21, and December 19. Will you be available to attend this training?
- Yes
- No
Do you fluently speak and/or write any language(s) other than English?
- Yes
- No
If "Yes" which language(s)?
20
Are you currently or have you even been a member of the California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) through your employment with a previous public sector agency?
- Yes
- No
If "Yes", please indicate what agency(s) you are/were employed with and include the dates (mm/dd/yr) of employment under CalPERS.
- Required Question
