Part-Time Community Recreation Assistant

The Arc of Ocean County•Lakewood, NJ

About The Position

The Arc of Ocean County is hiring part-time Recreation and Community Engagement Assistants to help adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities participate in social activities, explore interests, enjoy community events, and build connections. The role supports recreational programs such as fitness classes, arts and crafts, cooking groups, dances, seasonal celebrations, volunteer activities, and community outings. Assistants encourage participation and individual choice while helping create welcoming, inclusive experiences. Assistants may accompany participants to community activities and, when assigned, safely transport them in agency vehicles. They provide person-centered assistance and supervision, help participants pursue recreational goals and build confidence and independence, and foster social connection. They also prepare activity spaces, assist with event setup, maintain safe and organized activity areas, and share participant achievements, needs, and concerns with supervisors and team members. This is a flexible part-time position with evening and weekend hours based on program needs. Weekend daytime availability is required. Pay is $20.70–$24.70 per hour, paid bi-weekly. The position offers paid on-the-job training, human services experience, a supportive team environment, and opportunities for professional development and future career growth.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age.
High school diploma or GED.
Valid New Jersey driver's license in good standing with no more than five motor vehicle points.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Outgoing and reliable, with enthusiasm and professionalism for recreational and community-based activities.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience supporting individuals with disabilities is preferred.
At least one year with a previous employer is preferred.

Responsibilities

Support individuals as they participate in recreational programs, social gatherings, and activities throughout Ocean County.
Help facilitate fitness classes, arts and crafts, cooking groups, dances, seasonal celebrations, volunteer activities, and other recreational experiences.
Encourage participants to explore activities that reflect their personal interests and preferences.
Accompany individuals on recreational outings, community events, and activities outside the program.
Encourage participants to develop confidence and independence as they engage with their communities.
Safely transport participants in agency vehicles when assigned.
Help individuals pursue personal and recreational goals through participation, guidance, and positive encouragement.
Create opportunities for participants to socialize, start conversations, and develop friendships.
Provide patient, person-centered assistance while honoring individual preferences and choices.
Provide supervision and assistance during recreational programs, special events, and community outings.
Prepare activity spaces and assist with event setup and other recreation program requirements.
Help maintain activity areas that are safe, organized, and welcoming.
Share information about participant achievements, needs, and concerns with supervisors and recreation team members.
Work alongside fellow Recreation Assistants and contribute ideas for new activities or expanded recreational opportunities.