The City of Takoma Park Recreation Department is seeking an enthusiastic Recreation Program Leader to work with youth and teens grades 6-12. Under the guidance and direction of the Teen Program Supervisor, incumbents will assist with planning, organizing, and leading a variety of program activities including crafts, sports, and more. This position will work out of the Takoma Park Community Center (7500 Maple Ave), and will be generally scheduled between the hours of 2:30pm to 6:30 pm. Monday through Friday following MCPS schedule and additional hours available when school is on break. Occasional Saturday or Sunday hours may be required.

Typical Duties Include:

Assisting the Recreation Specialist in researching and developing programs for youth and teens in line with the Recreation Department's Teen Program mission and vision; Communicating with youth and teens to determine their needs and interests; Implementing Teen Lounge and program activities, including the Mentorship Monday program and special events; Encouraging local youth and teens to participate in programs; Working with the Recreation Specialist and Recreation Supervisor to develop daily or weekly activity schedules; Organizing space and supplies; Leading activities that positively impact youth and teens in Takoma Park; Managing youth and teen behavior through positive reinforcement, redirection, and progressive discipline, as per the Community Center's Code of Conduct; Recording attendance and other program data for activities, field trips, special events, etc.; Maintaining a professional demeanor in all dealings with youth, fellow staff members, parents, visitors, etc.; Setting up for and cleaning up after activities; Attend Defensive Driving Course and drive for Recreation Department as needed. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities required to be successful are: One to two years of progressively responsible experience working with youth or any combination of education and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job; Ability to provide leadership, have fun, be flexible and share enthusiasm; Ability to create effective working and mentoring relationships with diverse participants, staff members, and parents; Excellent interpersonal communication and writing skills; Must be service oriented and have the ability to organize, multi-task, and meet deadlines; Must have ability to guide, direct, and supervise youth and teens; Ability to create effective working and mentoring relationships with diverse participants, staff members, and parents.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Must be at least 21 years of age; Must have valid Driver's License, Must possess or have the ability to possess Standard CPR/First Aid certifications. The hourly wage for this position is expected to be between $18.98 and $22.94 and will be offered at a level consistent with the experience and qualifications of the candidate. The position will remain open until filled. The City of Takoma Park is a small jurisdiction in Montgomery County, Maryland bordering the District of Columbia and Prince George's County. Inhabited by a diverse and politically active population of 17,000 residents, Takoma Park is known for its progressive policies, historic tree-lined neighborhoods, and independent businesses. We are proud to be a workforce of almost 200 full-time and part-time employees that are as diverse as the community we serve. We strive to maintain excellent customer service and responsiveness to our residents and everyone we work with. It is with this in mind that we seek to improve by championing quality and efficiency through a dedicated workforce and cooperative spirit.