Recreation Coordinator - Aquatics

Parks Tacoma•Various Parks Tacoma locations, WA

About The Position

The Recreation Coordinator plans, develops, promotes, and directs assigned recreation programs in accordance with Parks Tacoma’s business plans, Mission Led Comprehensive Program Plan, and Strategic Master Plan. The role also oversees, schedules, and manages assigned aquatics facilities and coordinates scheduling for Parks Tacoma programs, Tacoma Public School activities, and private rentals. The position operates under the direction of the assigned Supervisor and, for aquatics programming, the Aquatic Supervisor. The coordinator is responsible for program planning and performance measurement, safety and regulatory compliance, staff recruitment and development, community partnerships, customer service, budgeting, and coordination with district personnel and outside organizations. The role supports program marketing, registration, presentations, and ongoing evaluation to maintain high-quality service. Employees are expected to work professionally and collaboratively, meet deadlines, communicate and coordinate effectively, and follow applicable safety practices. The work includes an active, collaborative office environment as well as indoor and outdoor facilities. Schedules may vary to meet operational needs and may include rotating, call-back, overtime, night, holiday, and weekend shifts. The role involves public interaction and may include exposure to varied weather, noise, airborne particles, chemicals, equipment, and other workplace hazards. The position requires sustained activity, movement across facilities and uneven or slippery terrain, ladder and stair use, working at heights or in confined spaces, and moving or exerting force on objects weighing up to 50 pounds. A valid driver’s license is required, and operation of equipment and motor vehicles may be part of the work. The starting wage is $35.97 per hour, with a posted range of $35.97–$49.24 per hour. Parks Tacoma describes its benefits package as including medical, dental, retirement, vacation, holidays, and more. Employment is at will and subject to a national background check.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in recreation programming and at least two years of related experience in aquatic programs, including at least one year in a lead capacity; alternatively, an additional four years of related experience in aquatic or recreation programming may substitute for the degree.
Experience working with diverse populations, including differences in language, race, culture, physical ability, and sexual orientation.
Ability to respond to life-safety and emergency situations.
Current BLS/CPR, First Aid, and Lifeguard certifications.
Valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record; a current driving abstract will be requested during the reference process at the applicant’s expense.
Ability to work a flexible schedule that includes weekends, evenings, and early morning shifts.
Knowledge of recreation needs and interests of aquatics users; Washington State Administrative Code, Pierce County Health Code, and Metro Parks Tacoma Aquatic Standards; joint programming with outside agencies; communication techniques; recreational activity principles, techniques, supplies, and equipment; group dynamics and teamwork; staff supervision and training; customer service; partnership development; and cash handling.
Ability to plan, develop, promote, and coordinate recreation programs and activities; organize instructional classes and special events; represent program users’ needs to the public and community agencies; analyze performance data and reports; interpret rules and regulations; perform emergency first aid and CPR; communicate clearly verbally and in writing; assess situations; take initiative with minimal supervision; accurately record and calculate data; manage time through scheduling and prioritizing; contribute to an effective team while respecting differences; and report to work regularly and on time.
Ability to perform sustained and repetitive activity; remain stationary or move throughout facilities for extended periods; traverse uneven, narrow, or slippery surfaces; climb ladders and stairs; work at elevated heights, below ground, or in confined spaces; reach above shoulder height or below the waist; maintain balance and positioning; move or exert force on objects weighing up to 50 pounds; use keyboards, phones, and office equipment; observe and assess details at close range and at a distance; communicate safety instructions and accurate information; and detect odors, fumes, contaminants, or smoke.

Nice To Haves

Lifeguard Instructor certification.
Swim Instructor certification.
Swim Lesson Trainer certification.

Responsibilities

Implement assigned program responsibilities under the Strategic Master Plan and Mission Led Comprehensive Plan; establish and report on work plans, benchmarks, and performance objectives.
Ensure safety procedures and guidelines are followed and assigned programs and facilities comply with Parks Aquatic Standards, state and local health codes, and other applicable regulations and standards.
Expand aquatics programs in the community in accordance with work plans and business plans, under the direction of the Aquatic Supervisor.
Recruit, supervise, and evaluate assigned part-time staff; coordinate staff training and conduct orientation and staff meetings.
Assist with marketing and distribution of aquatics program information and, when applicable, organize and schedule program registrations.
Secure external locations for programming and submit required paperwork.
Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with community organizations and external partners to enhance program delivery and maximize resources.
Respond to member and community inquiries and complaints in a timely manner according to Parks Tacoma customer service standards, policies, and procedures.
Adhere to the biennial budget for assigned programs, monitor expenditures within established limits, and provide data and program insight to support budget preparation.
Coordinate with administrators, district personnel, and outside organizations to manage activities and programs, resolve issues and conflicts, and exchange information.
Collaborate with Tacoma Public Schools on in-school and after-school programming.
Work with Fund Development and the Aquatics Supervisor to provide information for promoting assigned programs in accordance with the marketing plan.
Assist the Aquatic Supervisor with preparing and delivering oral presentations about assigned programs, activities, and operations to the public and special-interest groups.
Maintain high-quality programming through program development, evaluation, and ongoing staff training.
Perform emergency first aid and CPR as needed and according to established guidelines.
Perform related duties as assigned.