What are the responsibilities and job description for the Recreation Associate position at Springfield Park District?
Springfield Park District
Recreation Associate
Recreation Department
Position Title: Part-Time Recreation Associate
Classification: Non-Exempt - Non-Union
Salary: $15.00 per hour
What is the Springfield Park District?
The Springfield Park District offers a variety of educational and recreational programs, classes and events for people ranging in age from 6 months to seniors. The Park District partners with several local organizations and clubs to provide athletic programming such as youth baseball/softball, men’s soccer, disk golf leagues, cricket, rugby, pickleball, youth football, bicycling clubs and related clubs/groups. Additionally, the Springfield Park District also maintains intergovernmental/cooperative agreement with various Police Departments, School District and local colleges. We manage 4 Golf Courses, 2 Indoor Ice Rinks, 2 Outdoor Pools, Indoor Pool, 3 Dog Runs, 3 Disc Golf Courses, 2 Baseball Stadiums, 2 Early Childhood Program Facilities; Preschool & Funshop, 2 Historic Pavilions, Special Needs Facility, a Carillon, Botanical Garden, Tennis Complex, Skate Park, Erin’s Pavilion Rental Facility and the Henson Robinson Zoo.
Our Mission: to provide accessible and memorable recreational opportunities that enrich the community and improve the quality of life for generations as well as conserve our natural resources.
Position Summary:
The Recreation Associate is an entry level position. Candidates must demonstrate the skill and competence necessary to assist with a variety of Program Coordinators, Facility Managers, and Teachers in class activities, front-line/guest services, customer service initiatives, point of sale systems and rental services throughout the Springfield Park District.
Experience in babysitting, nanny positions, child-care facilities, camp counselor, receptionist, retail, food industry, customer service representative and other similar activities involving pre-school age children to seniors is a plus.
Working hours may vary. Candidates must be willing to have flexibility in scheduling and could work weekdays and evenings. Activity prep and activity time can average each shift 3 hours and sometimes Recreational Associates may be asked to fill hours at more than one recreational program area or facility per day.
Schedules are determined by designated Program/Facility Supervisors and to the best of abilities we try to accommodate multiple part-time staff schedules. Candidates – plan to provide which days and times you have availability to be considered for this part-time position.
Specific Responsibilities:
- The Recreation Associate shall work under direct supervision of designated Program/Facility Supervisors and shall not assume full responsibility for a group of children or program participants.
- Successful Completion of Park District Orientation.
- Responsible for good customer service.
- Assist with summer camps throughout the District.
- Assist in the planning and conducting community events.
- Recreation Program preparation for tasks such as art projects for the Facility Mangers, Program Coordinators or Teachers and cleaning projects, organizing back-room activities for the participants.
- With direct supervision, helping with group activities for pre-school aged children all the way to seniors.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Preferred Candidates will be 16 years of age or older. Qualified candidates age 15 might be considered but must provide parental permission, Work Permit and have transportation to and from work shifts.
- Must be currently enrolled in High School or possess a High School diploma.
- Must be a team player and be willing to work in groups.
- Must possess emotional maturity when working with children and adults.
- Must show respect for children and adults.
- Sensitivity to patron and/or participants socioeconomic, cultural, ethnic and religious backgrounds and individual needs and capabilities.
- Must follow lead and direction of designated Program/Facility Supervisors.
General Requirements:
- Must be able to read and write and have good command of the English language.
- Good oral and written communication.
- Physical capabilities – lifts 50 pounds, squats, bends and move as necessary for the job.
- Must be able to perform basic mathematics.
- Must possess valid Illinois Driver’s License, unless position approved for 15-year old with ID.
- Must present a neat and professional appearance.
- Responsible to follow policies and procedures outlined in Springfield Park District employee manual.
Applications & Resumes should be submitted Online:
- To be considered for a position, all applicants should apply online through our Job Opportunity and Tracking Portal. No paper applications or resumes will be accepted. Go to www.springfieldparks.org and click on Join Our Team to see a full list of job opportunities.
The Springfield Park District is committed to the provisions of Equal Employment Opportunities and Affirmative Action to its applicants regardless of race, color, religion, ancestry, age sex, marital or veterans’ status, national origin, disability or any other legally protected status. (updated 9.17.2020)
Salary : $15