Parks and Programs Specialist

City of Howell•Howell, MI

About The Position

Under the general direction of the Parks and Programs Coordinator, the Parks and Programs Specialist manages the daily operations of City parks, recreational programs, and seasonal facilities. The role supports facility operations, concessions, rentals, ice rink activities, seasonal and part-time staffing, community events, and program administration. The position may work at multiple park or facility locations and provide support to other public service divisions as needed. The position works under the supervision of the Parks and Programs Coordinator and supervises part-time and seasonal staff. The work includes public interaction and may take place in inclement weather. The City of Howell is a drug-free workplace. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Requirements

Associate’s degree in Recreation, Public Administration, Business, or a related field, or at least four years of related experience in lieu of educational requirements.
Two years of supervisory experience or five years of experience in parks and recreation operations.
Knowledge of cash handling and inventory controls.
Understanding of state and federal laws related to employment and recreation operations.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
Strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Valid Michigan driver’s license and acceptable driving record.
Ability to use hands and fingers and reach with hands and arms, including to change beach flags.
Ability to walk and stand in sand and to talk, hear, and see.
Ability to differentiate colors to place the display with the proper flags.
Ability to occasionally climb, balance, stoop, kneel, and crouch.
Ability to occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
The selection process may include a formal application, rating of education and experience, oral interview, reference check, physical exam including drug screening, and job-related tests.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Event planning and seasonal program management experience preferred.

Responsibilities

Assist with daily operations at Scofield Beach Concessions and the Fire and Ice Pavilion/Ice Rink, maintaining safe, clean, and organized facilities.
Support concession operations at Scofield Park, including daily service, staff supervision, inventory tracking, food safety compliance, and financial reporting.
Prepare facilities seasonally, conduct routine equipment checks, restock supplies, and troubleshoot on site.
Respond to facility rental inquiries about availability, pricing, policies, and documentation for the Fire and Ice Pavilion and Scofield Park pavilions.
Assist renters with room or site setup, signage, cleanliness inspections, and on-site troubleshooting.
Support ice rink operations, including staff scheduling, equipment care, and public engagement activities.
Assist with onboarding, training, and scheduling seasonal and part-time staff in accordance with City policies and procedures.
Help communicate safety guidelines, quality standards, and customer service expectations to staff.
Assist with planning, setup, and execution of community recreation programs and local events.
Provide event support, including staff coordination, setup, participant check-in, and customer service.
Collect and track event data and participant feedback to help evaluate program success.
Track facility and program expenditures, revenues, and supply needs against established budgets.
Maintain inventory records and support purchasing requests for operational supplies.
Respond to public inquiries, answer phones, prepare written correspondence, and present information to visitors and civic organizations about park regulations and recreational facilities.
Represent the Parks & Programs division at community events, meetings, and committees.
Provide cross-coverage and support to other public service divisions as needed.
Work at multiple park or facility locations as staffing and operations require.