Recreation Programmer

Information on How to Apply

 About the Recreation Programmer Position
The ideal candidate for the Recreation Programmer position will bring a solid understanding of inclusive programming principles, current trends, and best practices to support recreation, social, and cultural services for patrons of all ages, with a focus on youth. This includes expertise in recreation program development and implementation, national and regional trends, relevant literature, and community resources, as well as knowledge of community recreational, social, and cultural needs, and applicable federal, state, and local laws. Familiarity with modern office procedures, equipment, record-keeping practices, and supervisory principles, including staff training and performance evaluation, is essential. This role requires a genuine enthusiasm for engaging with young people, as they represent the primary community served by the Sheldon Center. Working closely with a supportive and creative team, the Recreation Programmer will thrive in a dynamic, forward-thinking environment that values feedback and adaptability.

Salary Range: $60,881.60- $79,123.20 Annually 

The City of Eugene determines starting pay within the range based on relevant education and experience as provided by the applicant in their application materials. This process is consistent with the Oregon Equal Pay Act (OEPA). 

Department/Division:  Library, Recreation and Cultural Services / Recreation Division

Work Location: Sheldon Community Center, 2445 Willakenzie Road, Eugene

Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. with flexibility per business need

Bilingual Pay Benefit: This position qualifies for up to an additional 5% of base salary for bilingual pay. Please see “Supplemental Information” at the end of the posting for more information.

• Develops, organizes, implements, supervises, evaluates, and enhances program activities and services in assigned areas; programs at Sheldon include preschool and afterschool care, summer camps, classes (fitness, arts, technology, and other disciplines), staff-led youth trips, and occasional special events.
• Provides program coverage as needed, adjusting to fluctuating responsibilities based on the needs of Sheldon program participants and city demands; will include driving and training others in using Recreation Buses and equipment for activities and trips. In this role, the Recreation Programmer must be adaptable, with some days dedicated entirely to direct service within a single program or event, while others may require managing multiple programs simultaneously. 
• Assists with long-range planning and the development of program goals and objectives in line with departmental and community needs.
• Supports recruitment, selection, supervision, and evaluation of staff; assigns work, ensures training, and addresses sensitive personnel issues, including disciplinary actions; plans and implements staff training sessions.
• Promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion by implementing the City’s Affirmative Action and diversity work plans; facilitates staff development and ensures program accommodations and accessibility.
• Markets and promotes programs and services through various media channels, including flyers, social media, and partners with department marketing team; manages Sheldon Facebook account.
• Assists with program budget development and monitoring, maintains accurate records, collects program survey data and generates expenditure reports; creates manuals, handouts, and updates center procedures as needed. Purchases and maintains necessary equipment and supplies.

• Collaborates with internal and external partners (e.g., department members, public/private agencies, community groups) to coordinate balanced programs and special events; may serve on City committees and task forces.
• Monitors program compliance with regulations; provides front desk support as needed and oversees maintenance of assigned facilities and equipment; May manages contracts with external contractors in coordination with Recreation Office Coordinator as necessary.

• Performs other related duties as assigned.

More information about the duties of this position can be found in the classification description: Recreation Programmer

Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they are able to perform every task in the job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one who comes with relevant transferrable skills from a variety of sources and experiences. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and skill set for the role. 

When screening your application, the City will consider an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience which provides the applicant with the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to meet minimum qualifications for this position.

 Minimum Qualifications
 Experience

• Two years of experience in the implementation of recreational, social and cultural programs and services directly related to the assigned area of responsibility
• One year of programming related to multi-generational patrons preferred.
• One year experience as lead/manager role preferred.

Education

• Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in recreation, experiential education, child development/education, human/social services, or a closely related field. 

Background

• Must pass a background check.

Certifications

• First Aid certified within first 90 days of hire
• Youth/ Child/ Adult CPR certified within first 90 days of hire

License

• Ability to obtain an Oregon Driver’s License within 30 days of hire; must pass driving records check and, if hired, maintain a driving record that meets the City’s standard. Oregon law requires that an out-of-state license holder must obtain a valid Oregon license (with appropriate endorsements) within 30 days of becoming domiciled in the state (ORS 803.355).

• Plan, organize, and execute camps, programs, and events that meet patron needs.
• Work collaboratively to support division and city goals.
• Supervise, coach, and evaluate both regular and temporary staff effectively.
• Monitor program risks, budget allocations, and record-keeping processes.
• Utilize community resources and effectively market programs and services; Utilize modern office procedures, methods and computer equipment.
• Communicate clearly, prioritize tasks, and handle responsibilities independently.
• Build cooperative relationships, resolve conflicts diplomatically, and respect patron confidentiality.
• Follow instructions and work independently with minimal supervision.

Bilingual Pay Benefit

This benefit compensates non-represented employees up to 5% of their base salary. To qualify for bilingual pay, the employee must demonstrate fluency in an eligible language and pass a language proficiency test that is administrated by the City’s Employee Resource Center division.  

Eligibility List

This posting may also be used to establish an eligibility list of applicants for future vacancies. Candidates that are placed on the eligibility list will be notified via email which will include the duration of the list and how notification of call up will occur.  

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The City of Eugene is committed to a respectful work environment. We value the cultural, educational, and life experiences of each employee. We believe that a diverse workforce enables us to deliver culturally responsive services to all members of our community. As part of our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion we desire to welcome, respect, and create a sense of belonging for a wide range of identities and experiences in our workforce. Women, people with disabilities, and persons of color are strongly encouraged to apply.    

The City of Eugene complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Any applicant with a qualified disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act may request accommodation by contacting an employment coordinator at (541) 682-5061.  

In compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, the City of Eugene will request all eligible candidates who accept employment with the City to provide documentation to prove they are eligible for employment in the United States.