Youth Community Recreation Programmer

Important Notice: Arlington County requires all applicants to thoroughly complete each section of the application, including prior job responsibilities, duties, and supplemental questions. While you may attach a resume, it will not replace a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

The Department of Parks & Recreation (DPR) is hiring a Youth Community Recreation Programmer to plan, implement, coordinate and manage recreational programming for Arlington youth ages 5-18 including camps, after school programs, special events, and late-night programming. Among other youth programs, this position will primarily focus on out-of-school time (OST) programming for teenagers and summer camp programs for elementary age youth. The Programmer will collaborate with staff, volunteers, and community partners to create a safe, inclusive, fun environment while ensuring programs meet the needs and interests of participants. 

• Collaborating with unit leadership to develop and maintain communication and outreach plans and recommending program improvements;
• Supervising permanent and temporary staff, including orientation, scheduling, timekeeping, and coaching;
• Collecting and analyzing data to evaluate and improve youth and teen programming;
• Identifying and securing locations and resources for OST youth and teen recreation programs at various Arlington County sites;
• Planning, implementing, and managing teen after school programs, summer camps, school break camps, community events, drop-in, and late-night programs;
• Facilitating and supervising 2–3 monthly evening and weekend programs;
• Tracking program expenditures and ensuring compliance with purchasing and funds-handling procedures;
• Managing equipment and supply inventories, including ordering supplies and reporting needed repairs;
• Creating and updating marketing materials and web content in accordance with DPR marketing standards; and
• Providing program leadership and coordinating with participants, parents, community groups, stakeholders, inter-agency personnel, and advisory boards.

The successful candidate will possess:

• Creative and strong leadership skills with a passion for working with young people.
• Ability to develop and maintain programs that meet participant needs while adhering to budget and cost-recovery principles.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple programs and priorities, take initiative, and work independently.
• Demonstrates integrity, reliability, teamwork, and positive interpersonal skills; reliable transportation required.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Recreation and Leisure studies, education, or a directly related field; and 
• Some experience managing youth recreation programs and activities or working with youth (ages 5-18) in a recreation/education setting.

Substitution: Additional education may be substituted for experience. Additional experience may be substituted for education. 
Desirable: Preference may be given to candidates with experience in one or more of the following: 

• Managing teen out of school time and youth summer camp programs;
• Working with individuals with disabilities and in diverse communities;
• Supervising the work of others; and
• Working in a community recreation setting.

Special Requirements

• A complete application will include an attached resume which highlights how your background and experience align with the qualifications for this position.

• Must possess First Aid/CPR/AED or ability to obtain within 60 days of hire may be required based on assignment.

• A pre-employment criminal records check will be conducted. It may include checks of the following: criminal record, driving record, education, professional licensure, and credit history. You may be required to sign a release authorizing the County to obtain your background information. 

• Must possess a valid driver license, or the applicant must have the ability to perform duties at locations other than the primary worksite. If the applicant has a license, they must authorize Arlington County to obtain or provide a copy of their official driving record. Any offer of employment may be contingent upon a favorable review of the applicant's driving record.

• The employee performs activities inside and outside. 

Additional Information:

Work hours: Full-time 40 hours per week, including late evening and weekend work. Actual schedule is based on the needs of program assignments. Situational telework may be available and depending on programming season priorities. Must be available to work after hours and during emergencies.

The position is based at Lubber Run Community Center but involves travel within Arlington to other County facilities and the greater metropolitan area for various activities. 

The official job title is DPR Programmer I (NB). 
As an Employer of Choice, Arlington County offers a generous benefits package.  For more information, click here.  

Arlington County is committed to advancing diversity, equity, access, and inclusion across all our services, activities, and programs. Click here to learn more about our commitment. 
Each section of the application must be completed. A resume may be attached; however, it will not substitute for the completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered. In accordance with § 19.2-392.15, applicants are not required to provide information regarding sealed arrests, charges, or convictions in response to any questions or inquiries during the hiring process.

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