Recreation Program Specialist - Bowers Farm at Discovery Oaks

Overview & Benefits Oakland County is more than just a workplace. It is a place where you can make a real difference. As one of Michigan’s leading public service organizations, we are committed to strengthening communities, delivering essential services, and improving the quality of life for nearly 1.3 million residents. When you join our team, you become part of a mission-driven workforce guided by integrity, innovation, and a passion for public service.

We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to do meaningful work that matters. Excellence in service is at the heart of our mission.

We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to do meaningful work that matters.

This position is limited to 1,000 hours/year. The schedule will include evenings and weekends. The rate of pay is $21.50/hr assists in the administration and operation of Bowers Farm at Discovery Oaks. Responsible for assisting staff and volunteer supervision, scheduling, program records, purchasing supplies, daily cash operations including deposits, and maintaining activity budgets. May also participate in the development and implementation of recreational programs to support the positive public image of Oakland County Parks and Recreation.

May coordinate work schedules for part-time staff and volunteers. Provides input on hiring, training, and performance management of part-time staff. May assist in inspecting and providing input to higher level park staff regarding the maintenance, improvement and repair of buildings, grounds and equipment, and other park facilities. Assists with Emergency Response efforts by supporting training, education of employees, and overseeing implementation of plans efforts in emergency situations.

Oversees recreational program activities and special events dealing with general park visitors, citizen volunteers, or special events for all groups. Provides leadership to part-time staff and volunteers during programs and/or special events at park facilities, programs and special events throughout Oakland County. Evaluates the results of recreational programs and makes recommendations for adjustments as needed. Works weekends, evenings, and holidays.

Utilizes current countywide and/or department specific software to complete assignments.

Be 18 years old. Have at least six (6) months of full-time equivalent experience in a supervisory or administrative capacity preferably in a park, recreation and/or program setting; OR Have at least six (6) months paid or voluntary experience in Leadership for organizations such as civic, philanthropic, school clubs, and/or sports teams. Possess a valid motor vehicle operator’s or chauffeur’s license.

Must maintain a valid United States motor vehicle operator's or chauffeur’s license. If assigned to a youth recreational program, prior to employment, candidates will be required to provide Parks & Recreation with documentation from the Michigan Department of Human Services (previously called Family Independence Agency) that they have not been named in a central registry case as the perpetrator of child abuse or child neglect.

In addition, applicants being considered for hire will be asked to sign a form authorizing Parks & Recreation to request and receive a criminal history check in accordance with the privacy act of 1974. Applicants for positions at Parks & Recreation will not be considered if they have been convicted of either of the following:
Child Abuse or Neglect. A felony involving harm or threatened harm to an individual within the 10 years immediately preceding the date of hire.

Functions as a leader over part‑time seasonal staff and volunteers. Instructs, directs, assigns, schedules, checks, and appraises performance (oversees 1 - 40 staff per shift, depending on work assignment).

Responds to inquiries of park patrons and the general public, in person or by phone or mail, regarding the use of the park and facilities. Interacts with on‑site vendors and maintenance staff to ensure high levels of customer service,…