Recreation Specialist

SUMMARY

The Recreation Specialist plays a key role in enhancing the quality of life for the residents by developing, organizing, and delivering recreational, cultural and wellness programs that foster community engagement and promote active, healthy lifestyles. This position assists in the overall coordination of county recreation initiatives, including the planning and implementation of youth and adult programs, sports leagues, special events, and season activities across parks, community centers, and other county facilities.

The Recreation Specialist works collaboratively with local schools, civic organizations, and community partners to identify recreational needs and develop inclusive programming that serves individuals of all ages and abilities. The position also supports the management and scheduling of recreational facilities, ensuring their safe and efficient operation.

This role requires creativity, strong organizational skills, and a proactive approach to community service. The Recreation Specialist must be able to balance hands-on event coordination with administrative responsibilities such as budget tracking, recordkeeping, marketing, and program evaluation. The individual will act as a public ambassador for the county’s recreation programs—encouraging participation, building community relationships, and contributing to a positive image of the county’s recreation system.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Other duties may be assigned)

· Plan, organize, and lead recreational programs and community events such as sports leagues, fitness classes, youth and senior programs, and seasonal festivals.

· Assist in developing and implementing new recreation initiatives that meet the needs and interests of county residents.

· Coordinate facility use, scheduling, and maintenance with internal departments and external organizations.

· Maintain accurate records for program participation, attendance, budgets, and equipment inventory.

· Supervise part-time staff, volunteers, and seasonal employees as assigned.

· Provide excellent customer service by responding to inquiries, resolving issues, and ensuring positive participant experiences.

· Ensure all activities are conducted in a safe, inclusive, and compliant manner in accordance with county policies and applicable regulations.

· Promote recreation programs through public outreach, flyers, social media, and community engagement efforts.

· Prepare reports, evaluations, and recommendations on recreation program effectiveness and areas for improvement.

· Assist with grant applications, sponsorship development, and fundraising efforts to enhance recreation offerings.

· Serve as a liaison between the Parks and Recreation Department and the community, representing the county at meetings, events, and public forums.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

· Knowledge of recreational program planning, community engagement, and facility operations.

· Strong organizational and communication skills, both written and verbal.

· Ability to work effectively with diverse groups, including the public, vendors, community partners, and coworkers.

· Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; familiarity with recreation or facility management software preferred.

· Ability to supervise staff and volunteers and maintain a positive, team-oriented work environment.

· Skilled in conflict resolution, safety awareness, and emergency response practices.

· Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required for programs and events.

· Strong public relations skills and the ability to promote a positive image of the county’s recreation programs.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: This position does not currently supervise direct reports but may lead teams or cross-departmental efforts related to recreation projects.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE: A graduate of an accredited college or university with Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Recreation Management, Parks and Recreation, Physical Education, Public Administration, or a related field. A combination of experience and training may be considered as meeting the required qualifications.

Minimum of two (2) years of experience in recreation programming, community event planning, or facility management (an equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered).

CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain within 6 months of hire)

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, bend, and lifting of equipment up to 50 pounds. Work performed both indoors and outdoors, sometimes in varying weather conditions. Must be able to operate standard recreation, maintenance, and office equipment safely

EEOC Statement

The Harrison County Commission is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, veteran status, sexual orientation, or marital/family status. A TDD for the hearing impaired is located in the Harrison County Commission Office and the telephone number for the TDD is 304-624-8500. Anyone having questions concerning or needing special accommodations should contact the ADA Coordinator co/ Harrison County Planning Commission at 304-624-8690.

Individuals may obtain an application from the website for the Harrison County Commission (www.harrisoncountywv.com) located under the forms tab.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $45,000.00 - $63,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Ability to Commute:

• Clarksburg, WV 26301 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Clarksburg, WV 26301: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $45,000 - $63,000