Parks & Recreation Program Specialist

Join to apply for the Parks & Recreation Program Specialist role at City of Bloomington, MN

4 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants

Assist in the implementation, coordination, and supervision of recreation programming under the supervision of the Summer Leadership Team and Recreation Supervisor. Provide activities, on‑site staff direction, and facilitate teen volunteers at various sites. Refer to supplemental questionnaire for dynamic specialty area information.

• Models and contributes to a positive work environment, culture of communication, engagement and safety.
• Communicates effectively and respectfully with employees and the general public, including but not limited to those of diverse racial, ethnic, religious and socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Works cooperatively as a member of a team; develops and maintains effective working relationships with diverse coworkers and community members; consistently brings a high level of self‑awareness and empathy to all personal interactions.
• Embraces the City’s shared values and contributes toward accomplishing the City’s vision and goals by being creative and innovative, and prioritizing continuous learning and clear communication.

• Provide a safe, fun and appropriate experience for all participants.
• Attend, facilitate, and participate in staff training and meetings.
• Plan, organize and direct activities at all assigned program sites.
• Collaborate with Program Specialists and the Summer Leadership Team as needed.
• Mentor and coach Parks and Recreation Instructors and provide input for staff evaluations.
• Assist in planning summer programming as directed.
• Teach and promote respect for park facilities and care of program equipment and supplies.
• Plan and prepare weekly site schedule and calendar of activities and written post‑season evaluation of program and recommendations for next season.
• Prepare, submit and review all reports required on participants, staff, incidents and property damage; provide documentation to Supervisor/Coordinator in a timely manner.
• Provide support as needed for all participants and staff to create an inclusive environment onsite.
• Work as a team member to ensure the program’s compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Minnesota Human Rights Act.
• Follow staff policies and procedures.
• Ensure that all staff and program participants follow the policies and procedures.
• Perform special assignments and other work as assigned by Summer Leadership Team.
• Complete all other duties as assigned by Recreation Supervisor.
• Adhere to and enforce state health guidelines.

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• Must have extensive availability the entire season from June 8 – August 14, with limited time off requests.
• Must be able to attend Lead and Specialist training May 30‑31 and assist in facilitating/preparing for staff training June 10‑12.
• Must successfully pass a Criminal and Driving Background Check.
• Must have experience working with youth.

• Supervisory and/or Leadership experience.
• One or more years of college and experience working in community recreation or education programs.
• Ability to work independently with minimum supervision.
• Willingness to learn about and support people with disabilities as they participate fully in City‑sponsored Parks and Recreation programs.
• Ability to plan and conduct recreational activities with preschool, elementary, and junior high‑age youth; knowledge and skills in leading activities.
• A creative mind and assertive personality to plan, lead and implement activities.
• Knowledge and understanding of child behavior, experience in recreation and ability to relate with and supervise children successfully.

Supervision:
This position supervises on‑site Recreation Instructors and participants.

2026 Full Salary Range: $19.24 – $22.51 per hour.

Seasonal position with 35+ hours per week, Monday‑Friday, June – August.

Seasonal; non‑exempt; non‑union; benefits eligible (elidable for time‑off benefits).

• Commitment Bonus – A seasonal employee who works until at least August 14 th will receive $100 bonus on their final paycheck.
• Referral Bonus – A seasonal employee who refers a new seasonal employee will receive $100 bonus on their final paycheck. Referral paperwork required within one week of the employee’s start date and both employees must be employed for the entirety of the scheduled season to be eligible.

The City of Bloomington is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating a diverse workforce that reflects the community we serve. Applicants who are black, indigenous or persons of color are encouraged to apply. We also encourage women, veterans, members of the LGBTQIA community, and individuals with disabilities to apply.