Pierce County Parks and Recreation offers many seasonal and year-round recreational opportunities.  This position will support a grant-funded collaborative project, providing recreational opportunities and leadership instruction to youth age 13-18 who are on community probation.  The work site is Sprinker Recreation Community Center.

Pierce Outdoor LIFE is a 6-week outdoor adventure experience offered 5 times a year.  The Specialist will be responsible for assisting with the planning and delivery of the program, under the guidance and supervision of a Recreation Coordinator.  The program includes equal amounts of 1) nature-based experiential learning and leadership development, 2) hands-on natural stewardship service projects with embedded environmental education lessons, and 3) practice/participation in outdoor adventure activities (rock climbing, canoeing, fishing, hiking, etc.) In addition, this position may support other programs and events when a Pierce Outdoor LIFE program is not in session.

As a condition of employment, the applicant will need to authorize and complete a background check. Information received from the background check is reviewed case-by-case and will not necessarily remove an applicant from consideration.

• Assist with developing and scheduling of assigned recreational activities and special events at various Pierce County Parks and Recreation locations.
• Work independently while leading recreational, educational and enrichment activities, directly teaching, guiding, coaching and motivating participants.
• Administer evaluation tools and track data related to program performance and effectiveness.
• Assist with the development and delivery of assigned programs; following curriculum established to meet program objectives.
• Conduct evaluations of program effectiveness; initiate investigations into problem areas; implement corrective measures.
• Onsite supervision during program sessions.
• Schedule and communicate with program partners.
• Direct the resolution of problems or emergencies affecting availability or quality of services.
• Prepare and maintain records and reports on program functions, track participant hours.
• Effectively persuade, inform, educate, train, solicit information, motivate and direct a wide variety of individuals or groups.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with County officials, partners, participants and the general public.
• Demonstrate and lead recreational activities in a safe manner.
• Perform the physical requirements of the position; work within the established working conditions of the position.
• Maintain regular, predictable and punctual attendance at assigned worksite.
  Meet travel requirements of the position.
• Work a flexible schedule, which includes weekends (Sat) for the Pierce Outdoor LIFE program.
  

• Knowledge of recreational activities, program planning and scheduling.
• Knowledge of safety hazards and precautions.
• Knowledge of principles of youth development.
• Skilled in use of independent judgement and decision making.
• Skilled in facilitation of group discussion and activities.
• Ability to assist with planning, organizing and overseeing assigned programs.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Ability to apply, interpret and explain policy and procedures.
• Ability to learn methods and techniques associated with experiential learning.
• Ability and willingness to work various days and shifts to accommodate the work.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships and work productively with others.
• Ability to effectively coordinate, communicate, perform and complete multiple duties and assignments in a timely manner.
• Ability to provide a high level of customer service for patrons and staff.
• Ability to interact calmly and tactfully with the public and internal customers.
• Ability to drive a 15-passenger van or like vehicle.
    

• Three years’ experience with recreational and youth-focused programs and
• Two years of related education.
• Additional education or experience may substitute to meet the five year total education and experience criteria.
  

• Veteran’s status preferred.
• A valid Washington State Driver’s license is required at time of hire.
• Possession of a current first aid card is required within 30 days of employment.
• A background check and physical is required prior to employment.
  

To be considered for this opportunity please: 

• Complete and submit an online Pierce County Employment Application by selecting “APPLY” above or go to:   www.piercecountywa.org/jobs.
• If you do not have internet access, you may visit your local public library or any WorkSource location and use their computers.
• Individuals needing accommodation in the application, testing process or need this job announcement in an alternative format may call Human Resources at (253) 798-7480, at least two days prior to the need.
  

This is a competitive selection process.  Your application form will be reviewed and evaluated for the quality and quantity of education/experience in the areas listed.  Applicants whose qualifications most closely correspond to the County’s needs will be eligible for further consideration.  Notification of application status normally occurs 4 to 6 weeks after the closing date.  Short notice may be given to applicants to participate in further selection processes which may include written, oral and performance examinations, and final interviews.

At Pierce County, diversity, equity, and inclusion means commitment, not a single step. We strive to foster an inclusive environment that supports equitable access to opportunities throughout your career.  We want to recruit, develop, and maintain a talented workforce from various backgrounds, cultures, lifestyles, and perspectives, committed to our vision.  Employees of the County have local, direct, and visible impact in our diverse community. Will you join us in keeping Pierce County a great place to live, work, and raise a family?