Job Summary The Township of Scotch Plains is seeking a Full-Time Recreation Leader to join our team. This entry-level professional position is ideal for an energetic, dependable early-career professional interested in gaining hands-on experience in community recreation, special event planning and operations, and facility management. A major focus of this position will be supporting the Township's year-round schedule of community events and activities. The Recreation Leader will play an active role in the planning, preparation, setup, on-site coordination, staffing, and breakdown of events throughout the year, working alongside Recreation Department staff and other Township departments to help deliver successful community experiences.
Position Details Location:
Scotch Plains, NJ Type:
Full-Time Salary Range:
$35,000 - $40,000
Education:
Bachelor's Degree in Parks & Recreation, Sport Management, Leisure Studies, or related field Key Responsibilities Program Coordination & Operations Assist with planning, organizing, marketing, and evaluating recreation programs and community events Supervise and support programs; may serve as an instructor, coach, scorekeeper, or referee when needed Manage registration, scheduling, supplies/inventory, participant communication, and facility preparation Provide general supervision of scheduled programs; ensure safe operations at program sites Customer Service & Administration Provide front-line customer service to residents via phone, email, and in-person Process registrations and payments; maintain accurate records and reports Learn and utilize Community Pass and other registration tools Staff & Volunteer Support Recruit, train, and supervise seasonal staff, coaches, and volunteers Assist with staff orientations, pre-season parent/coaches' meetings, and senior trip supervision Marketing & Communications Help design brochures, flyers, and social media content; post on departmental platforms Maintain and update bulletin boards, display cases, and other promotional signage to keep information current Facilities & Operations Management Coordinate picnic areas and other facility rentals ensuring accurate scheduling, fee collection, and communication with users Support setup and breakdown for programs and events Financial & Purchasing Support Assist with department purchasing and accounts payable process Ideal Candidate Strong communication, organization, multitasking, and decision-making skills Creative problem-solver who works well both independently and as part of a team Basic understanding of sports, recreation programs, and event planning Comfortable engaging the public and enforcing policies professionally Requirements Bachelor's Degree Valid Driver's License First Aid/CPR/AED Certification (or ability to obtain upon hire) Availability for flexible hours including evenings/weekends, as needed Application Process Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit the following materials for consideration: Cover Letter Resume Three Professional References - include names, titles, and contact information Send all materials to Julie Buonaguro, Director of Parks and Recreation, at jbuonaguro@scotchplainsnj.com Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. This posting will remain open until filled; the Township reserves the right to extend an offer at any time during the recruitment process. The Township of Scotch Plains is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).