Parks Program Worker – Elbert Shaw RYDC – Dalton, GA; NSC

Job Summary

The Parks Program Worker provides a structured program of recreation and leisure activities for youth in an assigned facility. This role supports the physical, emotional, and social development of youth through organized recreational opportunities. Recreation workers document programmatic activities, maintain materials, and coordinate schedules in collaboration with facility staff. This is a part‑time hourly position requiring 20 hours per week. The position is not benefits‑eligible and is limited to less than 30 hours per week.

• Provide structured recreation and leisure activities for youth in an assigned facility.
• Conduct activities designed to teach decision‑making, improve physical fitness, encourage positive leisure choices, and develop social skills.
• Document all programmatic activities in accordance with facility requirements.
• Perform quarterly inventory of recreational and leisure activity materials.
• Plan and coordinate a monthly recreation and leisure calendar for the facility population.
• Develop and implement special recreation schedules during holidays and school breaks, coordinating with relevant facility departments.
• Support a safe, engaging, and structured environment for youth participants.

• Associate’s degree or completion of a vocational/technical school program in the area of assignment OR
• One (1) year of experience in the area of assignment.

Preference will be given to applicants who, in addition to meeting the minimum qualifications, possess the following:

• One or more years of experience in Recreation Therapy or coaching in an athletic program.
• One or more years of experience working with juvenile offenders in facilities or at‑risk youth in group home programs.
• Completion of a three‑month (or longer) internship with the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice.

In addition to a competitive salary, the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice participates in Georgia’s statewide Total Rewards program. This initiative is designed to attract and retain employees by enhancing compensation with programs that support work‑life balance, wellness, and professional satisfaction. Eligible employees receive:

• Health and dental insurance
• Retirement and savings plan options
• Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave

DJJ is also a qualified employer for the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program.
For more information, visit: DJJ Employee Benefits.

• This position is announced for both internal and external applicants.
• This is an unclassified position.
• Selected applicants will be subject to reference checks and criminal background checks.
• Please ensure all relevant job information is included on the application for consideration. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
• All applications will be prescreened.

The Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

State of Georgia