Recreation Instructor; RNB

Position: Recreation Instructor (RNB)
The City of Bellingham Parks & Recreation Department is currently accepting applications for Recreation Instructors. We're on the lookout for dynamic, energetic individuals who are passionate about making a difference in their community. Join our team for an unforgettable summer adventure, all while getting paid!

If you're ready to join our enthusiastic and creative team, we want to hear from you!

This is an on-going recruitment to fill current and future staffing needs throughout the year based on departmental needs. Schedules may include weekends, early mornings and/or evening hours. The initial application review will begin on March 16, 2026. This recruitment may be closed at any time.

JOB SUMMARY:

The Recreation Instructor performs a variety of duties in general recreation including class instruction, special events support, supervision and maintenance of the facilities, and administrative support. Assists in program development, training and leading lower classified staff.

Current Recreation Instructor Opportunities (up to 8 positions):

Inclusion Specialist (1-2 positions)

Bellingham Parks & Recreation will be offering several on-site summer day camps for youth. The Inclusion Specialist works well with children with disabilities, has excellent communication skills, and enjoys working in a variety of camp settings. This position may be scheduled to work with a camp participant who needs assistance (physically, socially, behaviorally, or cognitively) as either 1:1 support or as an additional staff member.

The Inclusion Specialist works closely with staff to promote a successful experience for all campers and should demonstrate skills in behavior management, social awareness, positive reinforcement, and redirection. Successful candidates should be flexible, creative, and good natured. Camp hours are Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 5:30 pm. The Inclusion Specialist's hours are typically Monday-Friday, 8:00 am - 4:30 pm from June 22 - August 21, with a mandatory training week of June 15 - 18.

Camp Cordata Director (1 position)

Bellingham Parks & Recreation will be offering a summer day camp for youth called Camp Cordata. This position will be working with children 7 - 12 years old. Staff are responsible for supporting the Recreation Coordinator with training, preparing, instructing and leading activities and programs. Qualifications include prior experience working with children and/or camp leadership, experience leading art and science activities, games and outdoor activities, knowledge of safety, outdoor skills and team building.

Candidates will assist with administration of paperwork and process, implementation of daily schedule and ensuring that camp staff are following guidelines. They will also troubleshoot behavioral management issues that arise as well as interact with parents and guardians and assist with overall program development, training and leading lower classified staff. Staff must be good natured, fun, creative, energetic and thrive in hectic environments.

Camp runs Monday - Friday with a mandatory training week of June 15 - 18. The Camp Cordata Director will work 7:30 am - 4:00 pm Monday - Friday for 4 weeks only between June 22 - August
7. Camp Cordata staff also assist with other special events, All Comers Track Meets and fill in as needed for other youth camps throughout the summer.

Adventure Day Camp Director (1 position)

Adventure Day Camp (ADC) is a 4-day camp for children 10 - 14 years old that will run for 8 weeks between the hours of 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Monday-Thursday. It is an off-site, field trip-based camp where campers travel in a 15-passenger van with staff. On Fridays, ADC staff will assist Camp Cordata staff. 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.

Camp runs June 22 - August 13 with a mandatory training week of June 15 - 18. Staff hours are typically 8:30 am - 4:30 pm.

Event, Program and Trip Instructor (1-2 position)

This position will work directly with the Recreation Supervisor and Coordinators to support large department events, facility rentals, trips, sports leagues, community outreach and year-round programs. Hours will vary based on the time of year and specific needs. This position will be full-time (40 hours per week) from May to August and 69 hours per month for the remainder of the year, based on department needs.

This position requires working some weekends, early mornings and/or late evenings. It requires being a team player, flexible, patient and comfortable working with people of all ages and abilities. Knowledge of Northwest Washington parks, trails and attractions is preferred as well as experience driving 12-passenger vans.

Belling Camp Director (1 position)

Bellingham Parks & Recreation will be offering a summer day camp for youth called Belling Camp-Oaks. This position will be working with children 9 -…