Part-Time Recreation Specialist

FILING INFORMATION

Applicants must submit a completed City of Los Alamitos employment application and resume online by 5:00 p.m. Monday, March 16, 2026. Please call (562) 431-3538 for additional information or visit www.cityoflosalamitos.org to complete an employment application.

SALARY RANGE

$18.82 - $22.88 per hour (Starting salary based on experience and education)

POSITION

The position serves as a Recreation Specialist in the Los Alamitos Recreation and Community Services Department and performs a variety of recreational program tasks, which include the planning, coordination, and implementation of recreation and senior programs and classes, community services, aquatics programming, marketing, special events, and/or assisting in the formulation of a variety of recreation & community services programs. Approximately (10-40) hours per week, depending on season/program, with a varied schedule, including evenings, weekends, and selected holidays for City events or programs. There are currently two (2) openings in the following areas: (1) - Seasonal Day Camps, responsible for the planning and coordination of summer Day Camp programming, seasonal day camps, and special events; (1) - United Teen Program, responsible for the planning and coordination of the summer teen program.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Under the direction of the Recreation Manager, Recreation Supervisor, and Recreation Coordinator, the Recreation Specialist is required to perform the following essential job functions: Plan, organize, and supervise recreational programs, activities and/or special events Communicate effectively both orally and in writing to participants, parents and community members as well as supervisor and staff. Provide excellent customer service. Assist in the supervision, training, and evaluation of personnel. Prepare reports, news releases, and marketing materials. Be able to lift over their head, twist & turn a minimum of twenty pounds. Be able to stand for a long period of time, either indoors or outdoors. Perform other duties and assignments as assigned.

DESIRABLE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

The nature of the job requires strong communication skills to maintain rapport with participants, local businesses, non-profits, and the general public. The ideal candidate will be flexible, energetic, outgoing, creative, & enjoy working with people of all ages. The successful candidate will demonstrate excellent interpersonal, time management, and organizational skills to accomplish their job. The ideal candidate should possess working knowledge of coordinating and directing a variety of recreation programming, including experience in working with a wide range of recreational programs including but not limited to aquatics, day camp, parks program, preschool, youth programs, staff-led classes, youth and adult sports, older adult programming, and/or special events. Work effectively with the public, including, but not limited to, market recreation programs and classes. Demonstrate effective customer service while promoting the organizational values of the City. Typical word processing, customized computer software, and social media applications. Follow written and oral directions while exercising initiative and independence. Establish and maintain positive, team-oriented working relationships with other City employees. Be able to work a flexible work schedule including weekend, evening, and holiday hours For aquatics positions: Knowledge and understanding of current American Red Cross Lifeguard and Water Safety Instructor requirements; Knowledge of methods, materials, and equipment involved in the maintenance and operation of swimming pools;

DESIRABLE EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING

A minimum of two (2) years of municipal recreation experience or any combination of training and experience that provides the necessary knowledge, ability, and skill needed for the position. Experience working with youth camps, day camps, and/or youth and teen programs preferred. Certification in First Aid, CPR, AED required upon hired or within four weeks of hiring. Valid California Driver's License.

For aquatics position:

Must obtain American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification Possession of Water Safety Instructor certification preferred but not required

SELECTION

A City Screening Committee will review all applications. Those candidates with the most relevant qualifications will be invited to participate in an oral interview to evaluate training, experience, and personal qualifications. Interviews will be held in person, no exceptions. The City of Los Alamitos is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of Race/Color, National Origin, Sex, Religion, Age or Handicapped Status in employment or the Provision of Service.