New

Youth & Recreation Program Specialist

City of New Haven

$20.00 - $35.00 / hr

United States, Connecticut, New Haven

165 Church Street (Show on map)

Feb 11, 2025

Introduction

Apply NOW for year-round, part time employment!

Ideal for college students, responsible high school students, and other community members seeking fun and rewarding employment.

New Haven offers exciting programs for all children, in age groups from birth-19, including young adults from 20-24. Come be a part of it!

PRIMARY FUNCTIONS

Join our vibrant team as a Program Specialist, where you will play a pivotal role in creating enriching recreational experiences for residents of all ages throughout the city. This multifaceted position involves directing, instructing, or officiating in diverse programs that cater not only to children K-12 but also to participants of all age groups. From overseeing aquatic activities to providing coaching or officiating services, the Program Specialist contributes significantly to the inclusive and diverse recreational programming that defines our community spirit.

This is a responsible position for a mature adult to supervise and conduct classes, provide periods of instruction in coaching or officiating, order supplies, keep accurate records and work directly with the Community Recreation Supervisor in related activities.

Assignments of the Program Specialist may include:

Aerobics Instructor		Photography Instructor
Aquatics Director		Sports & Athletic Programs
Arts & Crafts Instructor		Tennis Instructor
Chess Instructor		Van Driver
Computer Instructor (S.T.E.M.)		Zumba Instructor
Dance Instructor

Some special, limited programming assignments may offer a higher rate of pay; rate based upon experience and availability of funding.

Hours of work will vary with assignment.

TYPICAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Directs, instructs, or officiates in various recreational programs, including aquatics, arts and crafts, dance, chess, photography, and more, catering to participants of all ages.
In addition to conducting classes, the Program Specialist may be involved in coordinating specific programs, such as managing seasonal programming and events.
Independently supervises and guides participants across various age groups.
Help set up and organize outdoor recreational activities with others, such as assisting kayak/canoe instructors, aquatic directors, or recreation managers and supervisors.
Engages with recreation participants or program visitors in a friendly and helpful manner, providing information about recreation and program amenities, programs, and rules.
Assists with equipment setup and breakdown for various activities and events.
Maintains cleanliness and orderliness of various recreation facilities and equipment.
Follows safety protocols and guidelines to ensure the well-being of recreation program visitors and staff.
Provides engaging and meaningful instruction, adapting to the diverse needs of participants of all age groups.
Collaborates with fellow Program Specialists, instructors, and support staff for effective program execution.
Maintains accurate records, including attendance, feedback, and incidents, contributing to program evaluation and improvement.
May drive program-related vans, adhering to safety protocols and maintaining vehicle cleanliness.
Performs related work as required.

EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

High school education or equivalent, with at least one year as a Recreation, Art/Design or Education major in an accredited institution of higher learning, or equivalent experience in a school or municipal recreational programming. Ideal candidate will have an understanding of effective small group supervision principles, recognizing the unique cultural dynamics within various age groups, and adapting leadership styles to meet the diverse needs of participants from various cultural backgrounds. Basic First Aid skills, including CPR, Heimlich Maneuver, treatment of allergic reactions, and concussion protocol.

KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

Whether instructing in arts and crafts, dance, photography, or chess, the Program Specialist is expected to have expertise in their designated area.
Strong communication (verbal and written) and interpersonal skills to manage and work with groups of all ages.
Ability to work effectively in a team environment, to collaborate with other specialists, instructors, and support staff.
Ability to work independently according to general or specific instructions.
Understanding of the diverse cultural backgrounds within the community, recognizing and respecting cultural differences.
Proficient in basic computer applications for record keeping, including the use of spreadsheets, databases, and relevant software for tracking program attendance, feedback, and incidents.
Willingness to perform physical tasks outdoors in various weather conditions.
Effective planning and organizational skills.
In-depth understanding of safety protocols and guidelines relevant to recreational activities, including emergency response protocols.
Ability to take control in an emergency situation.
Ability to take direction and initiative.
Must be able to work flexible hours, as programming may include evening and weekend schedules.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to work in various weather conditions, including rain, snow, or extreme temperatures may be required, depending on programming.
Agility and physical fitness to be mobile and stand for extended periods of time.

Some assignments may have additional special requirements, such as:

Van Driver must have a valid Connecticut driver's license with a Public Passenger Endorsement.
Additional licensing and/or certifications may be required by assignment.

SALARY, BARGAINING UNIT & TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

This "Non Tested" position may be General or Special Funds.

This part time or seasonal position is not eligible to receive medical benefits, vacation pay, union membership, or union contractual benefits. Any period of part time employment will not be construed in any way to mean probationary employment. Persons may not be employed in two concurrent positions with the City and/or the Board of Education at the same time.

Seasonal employment not to exceed 120 calendar days.

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of: (1) a pre-employment background check,and (2) if over 18, a pre-employment drug screening in accordance with the City's Drug Free Workplace Policy*. Instructions and information on this pre-employment process are included in Conditional Offer of Employment.

Pursuant to the Federal Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, The City of New Haven has a adopted a Drug Free Workplace Policy. The City of New Haven requires a pre-employment drug test, which includes screening for marijuana.

Selection Plan

Applications will be reviewed by the Department of Human Resources on an ongoing basis. Applicants must demonstrate that they meet the minimum requirements as listed within the job description; failure to do so may result in disqualification.

It is critical that you complete the application thoroughly, as the information you provide will be used to determine if you are eligible to move forward in the selection process. Your application and resume should indicate that you meet the minimum requirements as listed. Submissions may be evaluated prior to a posted closing date, and a hiring decision may be made prior to the removal of the job posting.

Returning Seasonal Employees must apply via this portal; paper applications are no longer accepted.

Those persons interested in any other Parks or Public Works Seasonal employment must also apply for those positions via the corresponding JobAps portal.

Information regarding the employment and selection process can be found HERE.

Please note that the only method of communication with applicants for this position will be by email. You must provide a valid, working email address and you will need to monitor your email, including spam/junk folders, for correspondence from the New Haven Human Resources Department.

We reserve the right to extend an application deadline or close a job posting early to ensure we can attract and identify the best candidate(s) for a position.

Conclusion

To apply for this opportunity:

Complete your User Registration. You are encouraged to save your Applicant Profile for future use.
You MUST click on the job posting you are interested in, and click Apply or Apply Online from within that posting.
MAKE SURE the job you are applying for is named at the top of the page as you review your application!
Review or modify your application for that position
Click "Ready to Send App" or the "Send" tab; read page and click the attestation
Click "Send to City of New Haven"
You will be redirected to "CONFIRMATION OF EMPLOYMENT APPLICATION SUBMISSION"
You will also receive an email and text, if a number was provided, confirming your submission
If you do not receive this confirmation in the next 24 hours, your application has not been submitted - please contact us at NHJobs@newhavenct.gov

Please Note, your Profile is NOT an application for an open position. After you create your Applicant Profile, you must still click on a Job Title and complete the application as instructed for each position.