Salary
$39,658.94 Annually
Location
Roanoke, VA
Job Type
Full Time
Job Number
201003100
Department
Parks, Rec & Tour - Recreation
Opening Date
02/09/2024
Closing Date
3/3/2024 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time (US & Canada)
GENERAL DESCRIPTION We are seeking a dynamic and enthusiastic individual to join our Parks, Recreation, and Tourism team as a Recreation Specialist specializing in Outdoor Services.  In this role, you will play a crucial part in planning, organizing, and executing outdoor recreational programs, activities, and events at Explore Park. The ideal candidate should have a passion for the outdoors, strong organizational skills, and the ability to create engaging and inclusive recreational experiences.  The position reports to the Recreation Program Supervisor and supervises part time staff and volunteers.  Does additional related work as required.
We offer competitive compensation, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment committed to promoting community well-being through outdoor recreation. If you are passionate about the outdoors and creating memorable experiences for others, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS • Assists with the development and implementation of a comprehensive slate of outdoor recreation programs at Explore Park by identifying the needs of the community and developing cost effective programs at industry standards in order to fulfill the mission and financial goals of the County.
• Assists with both public and private special events at Explore Park by coordinating requested use and assisting with the setup/take down and general operations of the event to ensure a successful special event.
• Assists with daily operations of the Explore Park Visitor Center by ensuring frontline staff have the knowledge and equipment to process registration and reservation payments and refunds as well as determine customer service solutions in order to provide a quality experience to guests.
• Assists with the daily operations of Tree Top Quest by ensuring staff understand and follow established guidelines and protocols in order to ensure a safe experience by guests.
• Provides guidance and instruction to participants, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience during outdoor activities.
• Assists with the evaluation of program effectiveness and participant satisfaction, making adjustments for continuous improvement.
• Assists in the development of marketing materials and promotional strategies to increase participation in outdoor programs.
• Monitors and manages equipment and supplies related to outdoor recreational activities.
• Stays informed about trends and best practices in outdoor recreation and implement new ideas into program offerings.
• In absence of more senior staff, supervises a quality and trained work force of 15 to 75 part-time employees (depending on season) at Explore Park including assisting with recruiting, training and coaching team members in order to staff seasonal and year-round attractions, program and events.
• Conducts monthly trail inspections and performs necessary light maintenance/upkeep as necessary in order to ensure Explore Park trails are open and safe to guests.
• Provides administrative support to the Outdoor Service Area by completing maintenance, financial, payroll, accident/loss, incident, work order and vehicle logs and reports at supervisor’s request in order to ensure required record keeping.
• Works collaboratively with other Parks and Recreation staff to support overall departmental goals and initiatives.
REQUIREMENTS/PREFERENCES Education
Required :  High School Degree, or equivalent
Preferred : Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in recreation or related field, or equivalent experience and education.
Experience
Required : One (1) year experience in recreation programming and supervision.
Preferred : Three (3) or more years of recreation experience.
Certifications/
Licenses
Preferred : Valid Virginia driver’s license with good driving record.
Current CPR, First Aid and AED certification or ability to obtain
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
• General knowledge of recreation program development and delivery.
• Ability to plan and supervise the work of others and recognize whether standards are met.
• Knowledge of best practices in applicable outdoor pursuits and ability to instruct same.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills to a diverse group of staff, customers and guests.
• Awareness of risk management issues related to outdoor recreation services.
• Ability to analyze and evaluate programs against established objectives.
• Ability to work outdoors in a wide range of environments including rain, snow, wind, cold, and heat.
Additional Requirements
Subject to a complete criminal history and Child Protective Services background search with acceptable results.  Following a conditional offer of employment, must pass a post offer physical examination. Must be able to perform the job as described in the Physical and Environmental Demands section of this job description. May be subject to DMV driving record review as required by amount of work related driving, specified by support responsibilities. Must be willing to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends and some holidays.
Supervisory Responsibilities
Assists with the supervision of a large part time staff.
OTHER INFORMATION