Innovative Programs Coordinator

Department: Parks & Recreation

Division: Administrative

Rate of Pay: $40,000 annually

Nature of Work

The Innovative Programs Coordinator is a member of the Parks & Recreation Administrative Division and works under the direction of the Director of Parks & Recreation. This position is responsible for researching, developing, implementing, and evaluating innovative recreation programs that enhance the quality of life for Hattiesburg residents of all ages. Using a collaborative, research-driven approach, the coordinator identifies emerging recreation trends, evaluates community needs through surveys and data analysis, and develops programming that expands opportunities beyond traditional athletics and arts.

The coordinator works collaboratively with City departments, schools, community organizations, businesses, and other partners to create meaningful recreational experiences that foster wellness, belonging, and community engagement. As a member of the department’s Summer Camp leadership team, this position assists with planning, seasonal staff recruitment and interviews, staff training and support, curriculum implementation, supply management, logistics, and daily operational support for the department’s annual five-week Summer Camp program. The coordinator also collaborates with the Adult Sports Division and other recreation staff to support leagues, tournaments, special events, and other department-wide initiatives as assigned.

The Administrative Division functions as a highly collaborative team. The successful candidate must exercise initiative, creativity, professionalism, and sound judgment while managing multiple projects, meeting deadlines, communicating effectively with diverse audiences, and supporting the goals and priorities of the Parks & Recreation Department.

Essential Functions / Specific Duties And Responsibilities

• Research recreation trends, best practices, and community needs to develop innovative, inclusive, and sustainable recreation programming.
• Develop, administer, and evaluate community surveys and program assessments to identify recreation needs and measure program effectiveness.
• Analyze research findings and prepare reports, recommendations, presentations, and supporting documentation to guide programming and departmental planning.
• Research, plan, organize, schedule, coordinate, and implement recreational programs, classes, workshops, special events, and community initiatives.
• Serve as a member of the leadership team for the department’s annual five-week Summer Camp program by assisting with program planning, seasonal staff recruitment and interviews, staff training and support, curriculum implementation, supply management, logistics, and daily program operations.
• Assist with the recruitment, onboarding, training, supervision, and evaluation of seasonal staff, temporary employees, instructors, volunteers, officials, and coaches supporting assigned programs.
• Collaborate with the Adult Sports Division and other Parks & Recreation divisions to assist with leagues, tournaments, special events, and department-wide programming initiatives.
• Secure, schedule, prepare, and coordinate the use of recreation facilities, equipment, and program resources.
• Assist in preparing, monitoring, and administering assigned program budgets.
• Build and maintain partnerships with schools, nonprofit organizations, businesses, civic groups, and other City departments to expand recreational opportunities and strengthen community engagement.
• Design, write, edit, and coordinate promotional materials, social media content, newsletters, flyers, presentations, and other public communications supporting Parks & Recreation programs and initiatives.
• Communicate professionally and effectively with participants, parents, volunteers, vendors, community partners, City staff, elected officials, and the general public.
• Participate in local, state, and national professional organizations and pursue continuing education opportunities to strengthen recreation programming and professional knowledge.
• Support department-wide initiatives and perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Parks & Recreation, Chief Administrative Officer, Chief Communications Officer, or Mayor.
  
  

Qualifications

• Valid Mississippi driver’s license.
• Bachelor’s degree in Parks and Recreation, Recreation Administration, Public Administration, Event Management, Communications, Marketing, Education, Leisure Services, or a closely related field preferred.
• Experience in recreation programming, event planning, youth programming, community engagement, project management, communications, or a related field preferred.
  
  

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with a wide variety of audiences.
• Strong research, analytical, and critical-thinking skills with the ability to interpret data and develop recommendations that enhance recreation programming.
• Demonstrated ability to organize and manage multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to develop innovative programs that respond to community needs and emerging recreation trends.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail in planning, logistics, budgeting, scheduling, and program administration.
• Ability to recruit, support, train, and work collaboratively with seasonal staff, volunteers, and community partners.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with City staff, elected officials, community organizations, businesses, schools, volunteers, and the public.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and the ability to utilize digital communication platforms, social media, and basic graphic design software to support departmental marketing efforts.
• Ability to work independently while contributing positively to a collaborative team environment.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required to support programs, special events, and department operations.