Create Experiences. Spark Community.

First review of applications will occur June 23rd, but the position is open until filled.

Do you love turning big ideas into unforgettable programs? Are you the kind of organizer who can juggle schedules, inspire instructors, and still greet community members by name? The City of Newport is looking for an energetic Recreation Programs Specialist to champion programs and signature events that bring our community together.

In this impact-driven role reporting to the Recreation Superintendent you will:

• Design & Grow Programs
  Brainstorm, plan, and launch fresh classes, camps, and community happenings that keep community members active and engaged year-round.
• Lead Amazing People
  Recruit, train, and mentor Recreation Leaders, part-time instructors, and volunteers—then watch them shine under your guidance.
• Own the Day-to-Day
  Oversee program logistics, from field and gym schedules to equipment purchasing, set-ups, and safety checks.
• Champion Quality & Safety
  Enforce city policies and OR-OSHA standards, ensure facilities meet health codes, and create fun environments where everyone feels welcome.
• Tell the Story
  Track attendance, budgets, and outcomes; produce clear reports; and share wins—and lessons learned—to drive continuous improvement.

What You’ll Bring

• Hands-on experience leading recreation, camp, or event programs.
• Talent for motivating teams and building positive relationships with participants and parents.
• Skill in balancing multiple deadlines, budgets, and venues without breaking a sweat.
• Creativity to develop fresh program ideas—and the follow-through to execute them.
• Confidence with basic tech tools (registration software, MS Office, email) and a readiness to learn more.
• CPR/First Aid (or ability to obtain soon after hire). A valid OR driver’s license at time of hire.

Why Join Us?

• Make an Impact – Your programs will shape positive memories and strengthen community bonds.
• Collaborative Culture – Work for the Recreation Superintendent and alongside the Sports Coordinator who value innovation and teamwork.
• Professional Growth – Set (and reach!) development goals, attend trainings, and build a standout career in parks and recreation.
• Dynamic Work Week – From planning sessions in the office to hands-on events in our parks, no two days are the same.

Ready to Create the Next Great Community Experience?
Apply today! First review of applications begins June 23rd—don’t wait!

Bring your energy, vision, and organizational talent, and let’s make recreation remarkable together.

Minimum Qualifications:

Education and Experience:

• Typical Path:
• Bachelor’s degree in one of the following (or related) fields:
• Recreation
• Education
• Human Services
• Sociology
• Child Development
• PLUS 4 years of related work experience
• Alternative Path:
• Equivalent combination of relevant education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs).

Knowledge (What you need to know):

• Recreation program principles and techniques
• Rules and equipment used in recreational settings
• Behavior management and child development concepts
• Program supervision and instructional strategies
• Philosophy and goals of the recreation field
• Facility and equipment care/maintenance

Skills (What you need to do well):

• Computer and software proficiency (office and recreation-related)
• Time management and organization
• Verbal and written communication
• Customer service
• Team leadership and staff management
• Relationship-building and collaboration

Abilities (What you need to be able to do):

• Build and maintain effective working relationships
• Supervise and evaluate staff
• Plan, organize, and lead recreational programs
• Communicate clearly in writing and speaking
• Resolve conflicts professionally
• Maintain confidentiality
• Work independently and with a team
• Understand and respond to participant and staff needs
• Form community partnerships
• Physically perform job duties
• Legally and safely drive for city business

Special Requirements:

• Valid Oregon Driver’s License at time of hire
• Oregon Food Handler’s License within 30 days of hire
• CPR/First Aid certifications (Infant, Child, Adult, AED) within 3 months of hire

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this position, the employee is frequently required to sit, stand, bend, kneel, stoop, communicate, reach, and manipulate objects. The position requires physical mobility, including the ability to frequently lift or move materials weighing up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lift or move materials weighing up to 60 pounds.

Manual dexterity and coordination are required approximately 35% of the workday to operate equipment such as computers, keyboards, phones, and other standard office equipment. The employee must also have the ability to operate a motorized vehicle and physically interact with and use parks and recreation equipment as part of the role.

Working Conditions / Work Environment

Work is performed in both indoor and outdoor environments, with a majority of time spent in recreational, gymnasium, or park settings. The position may require working in a variety of weather conditions and occasional exposure to noise, physical activity, and varying environmental elements associated with recreational facilities and outdoor programming.

How to Apply

All applications for this position must be submitted via our online application system at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/cityofnewport.Only complete applications will be considered. 

Please do not fax, mail or e-mail any documentation. You will receive a confirmation email when your application has been successfully submitted.

The City of Newport is an EEO and veteran's preference employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under state, federal or local law. The City of Newport follows Oregon law regarding Veterans’ Preference in Public Employment. 

If you are requesting Veterans’ Preference, you must complete the Veteran's Preference Form and attach a copy of your DD214 / DD215. If you are a disabled veteran, you must also include a copy of your Veteran's Administration benefit summary/award letter with your application. 

All offers of employment are subject to successful completion of a pre-employment background check, reference checking, and in the case of safety sensitive positions, drug and alcohol testing. 

To be considered for this position, please submit the following:

• A completed City Employment Application
• Copies of any relevant certifications or licenses (if currently held)

Applications must be submitted by June 23 for initial review to:

City of Newport

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/cityofnewport.

For more information, visit: https://www.newportoregon.gov

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