RECREATION PROGRAM SPECIALIST I, II

Position Description

This job description outlines the general nature and level of work performed. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required.

Location: Rapid City, SD

Job Summary: This position is responsible for planning, directing, and managing public programming for Parks and Recreation Department.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities – Recreation Specialist I:

• Plans, organizes, and oversees recreational programs, events, seminars, and activities for all ages and skill levels to meet community needs.
• Coordinates with City departments and external agencies to plan special events and address Recreation Division operational needs.
• Develops and manages schedules, facility usage, and program logistics, including registration processes and fee collection.
• Designs and implements marketing and promotional materials and strategies, coordinating with media outlets to increase program visibility and participation.
• Coordinates concessions operations, including staffing, inventory management, and ordering supplies.
• Performs routine facility inspections and light maintenance duties to ensure safe and clean recreational environments.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities – Recreation Specialist II:

• Performs all duties of Recreation Specialist I.
• Develops and implements goals, objectives, policies, and procedures for Recreation Division programs, including researching and recommending new programs, activities, and special events.
• Prepares, administers, and monitors the Recreation Division budget, including forecasting revenues and expenditures, recommending fees, and securing external funding and sponsorships.
• Supervises, trains, and evaluates seasonal and part-time staff, ensuring compliance with organizational policies and applicable laws.
• Performs full-cycle supervisory duties, including hiring, assigning work, evaluating performance, and addressing employee concerns and disciplinary actions.
• Oversees contracts, facility rentals, and partnerships with outside organizations, ensuring proper use and payment compliance.
• Prepares and maintains reports, records, and documentation related to programs, finances, and operations.

Qualifications – Recreation Specialist I:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience in recreation programming, coaching, camp counseling or coordinating sports leagues or youth programs required.
• Must posses a Life Guard Certification.
• Life Guard Instructor Certification preferred.
• Must possess a valid South Dakota driver's license or ability to obtain within 30 days from date of hire.

Qualifications – Recreation Specialist II:

• Must meet all Recreation Specialist I requirements. In addition:
• Degree in Recreation Management, Business or related field.
• 2 years experience in recreation programming, coaching, camp counseling or coordinating sports leagues or youth programs required.
• Basic understanding of organizing and supervising adult sports leagues and youth summer camp activities.

Work Environment:

• The employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions; moving mechanical parts; fumes or airborne particles; toxic or caustic chemicals; outside weather conditions and risk of electrical shock. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
• The employee is frequently required to talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

Additional Information

Parks & Recreation