Special Needs Program Leader

Job Details Level: Experienced

Job Location:

Sorensdale - Hayward, CA 94544

Position Type:
Full Time Salary Range: $69,126.72 - $84,024.00 Salary/year

Job Category:
Special Needs Programs

The Sorensdale Recreation Center is a facility and program of the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District. The primary purpose of the program is to provide opportunities for people with an intellectual disability (i.e., developmental disabilities) to achieve greater independence. Programming focuses on abilities rather than disabilities and on a positive sense of self-worth. Individuals are encouraged to make choices and to take more control over their lives.

A variety of educational, recreational, life skills, and community skills are offered. Program activities include functional math and literacy, computer skills, vocational training, communication skills, personal health and wellness, gardening, arts and crafts, woodshop, performing arts, and music. Life skills learned in the classroom are practiced in the community.

Hayward Area Recreation and Park District (H.A.R.D.) is currently hiring a Special Needs Program Leader to support our Special Needs Programs at the Sorensdale Recreation Center!

• Available Positions: 1
• SEIU Full-Time, Benefits Eligible, Non-Exempt Position
• Work Schedule:
  
  40-hours per week, Monday – Friday. Some evenings and weekends may be required.
• Typical
  
  Work Hours:
  
  8:30AM – 5:00PM
• Annual Salary: $69,126.72/year – $84,024.00/year
• Eligible for overtime for all hours worked more than eight (8) hours per day or forty (40) hours per week.

Filing deadline for this position is September 25, 2026. This posting may close at any time.

Under direction, plans, coordinates, directs and implements a variety of duties and responsibilities to assist with daily operations of the Special Needs Program. The Special Needs Program Leader will lead in facilitating educational, vocational, and recreational programming for persons with intellectual/developmental disabilities to help them achieve their individualized goals, while respecting and encouraging Person-Centered Thinking.

The Special Needs Program Leader position is primarily responsible to serve as the lead for Special Needs Program Instructors and Special Needs Program Aides who are supporting the Special Needs Program. Incumbents in this class typically lead and direct the activities of subordinate staff within an assigned program area, but may also be assigned to perform complex support work within a program area.

NOTE:

The following list of duties are those usually performed by most employees in this classification. However, employees may perform other related duties at an equivalent level. Not all duties listed are necessarily performed by each individual in the classification.

• Plans, organizes and leads program activities within an assigned program area.
• Maintains records of participation and collects participant fees.
• Supports clients in reaching their personal goals.
• Collaborates with Program Instructors and participants to assist, mediate and problem-solve participant needs as issues emerge, and may connect with the appropriate support when needed.
• Leads groups of special needs participants in classroom settings and community-based settings.
• Implements and monitors District procedures regarding the safety of participants.
• Oversees and directs the preparation of buildings and facilities and the setting up of equipment for scheduled activities and events.
• Performs retail duties in Thrift Store, such as handling and organizing merchandise, selling items, and providing excellent customer service.
• Assists in the implementation of programs and special events.
• Participates in training sessions and regular staff meetings.
• Demonstrates cooperative behavior with colleagues, supervisors and the public at all times.
• Assists recreation colleagues in providing support or modifications for participants in general recreation programs.

Education:

Associate of Arts Degree from an accredited college with coursework in Social Services, Recreation, Recreation Therapy, Human Services, Behavioral Health, Educational Aide…