Recreation Leader; RNB

Want to get paid to play? Join our team of fun and enthusiastic recreation staff this summer and enjoy working outside while leading youth and teens in a variety of fun camp settings. The City of Bellingham Parks & Recreation Department is currently accepting applications for part‑time, non‑benefited Recreation Leaders.

Employment runs from June 15 – August 25, 2026. Hours are typically Monday – Friday and may range from 7:30 am – 6:00 pm depending on job and shift assignment. A PAID ninety‑minute onboarding session must be attended prior to start date. Other recreation program opportunities such as special events, track meets, athletic facility monitoring and concerts may be scheduled in addition to camp duties.

At the completion of summer camp, staff may also be eligible for part‑time work in general recreation programs.

This is an on‑going recruitment to fill current and future staffing needs throughout the year. This recruitment may be closed at any time based on departmental needs. The initial application review will begin on March 16, 2026.

The Recreation Leader provides support in the implementation of recreational programs and events. Interacts with participants, leads activities and provides information and education. Prepares recreational facilities for participant use and monitors recreational activities to ensure a safe environment for participants.

• Summer Program Staff/Recreation Leaders (up to 8 positions)
  Responsibilities: instructing and leading day camp activities and programs for youth and teens ages 6‑16 in a variety of settings.
  
  Qualifications:
  
  prior experience working with youth and teens and/or camp leadership, leading games and outdoor activities, and knowledge of outdoor skills. Candidates must be team players, flexible, patient and comfortable working with participants of all abilities.
• Camp Cordata and Belling Camp (up to 6 positions)
  
  • Belling Camp (BC) – 9 weeks at Bloedel Donovan Park for kids 6‑8 and 9‑12.
  
  • Camp Cordata – 5 weeks at the Cordata Park Pavilion for children 7‑12.
  Staff are responsible for instructing and leading day camp activities under the guidance of their Camp Director. Staff must be good natured, fun, creative, energetic and thrive in busy environments. Camps run Monday‑Friday, 8:00 am – 5:30 pm. Staff shifts may range between 7:30 am – 6:00 pm.
• Adventure Day Camp (up to 1 position)
  4‑day a week, off‑site, field‑trip‑based camp that travels throughout the region. Two staff drive a 15‑passenger van and work with up to 13 children ages 10‑14 from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm Monday‑Thursday. Staff hours are typically 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. Fridays vary. Additional hours may be available for special events and other programs. Staff should have behavior management skills, be comfortable driving a large vehicle, have safety and risk‑management skills, be organized, professional, flexible, and have exceptional time‑management skills.
  
  ** Please note**:
  If applying for this position it is preferred that you are 21 or older as you may be required to drive a van.
• Volun Teens (up to 1 position)
  Program for youth ages 13‑16, offering volunteering in a variety of settings while having fun. Two staff members will work with up to 10 participants and travel in a 12‑passenger van. The program runs Monday‑Thursday for 5 weeks throughout the summer, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm; staff hours typically 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. Staff should be well organized, professional, fun and willing to work beside teen participants while accomplishing volunteer projects.
  
  All destinations will be planned and organized but will require weekly confirmation and communication.
  
  ** Please note**:
  If applying for this position it is preferred that you are 21 or older as you may be required to drive a van.

This position will start at Step 1 ($21.08/hour). Employees receive step increases in accordance with the Guild of Pacific Northwest Employees, Local 1937 Collective Bargaining Agreement and City policy. The full hourly range for this position is $21.08 – $27.49. For internal candidates, placement within the range is based on City Pay Placement Procedures.

At the…