Activity Programs Instructor - Therapeutic Recreation/Austin Parks and Recreation

About This Position

Job Description:

Purpose:

Under general supervision, this position develops and implements specialized recreational programs and activities.

Duties, Functions and Responsibilities:

Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.

• Develops, markets, schedules, implements, conducts, and coordinates Citywide activities, programs, and special events.
• Coaches and officiates sporting activities.
• Ensures all events and activities conform to appropriate safety rules.
• Modifies classes and workshops to accommodate individuals with a variety of disabilities.
• Prepares and reviews payments, cash receipts, billing, or other accounting transactions by verifying documentation and accurately completing transactions.
• Coordinates with other organizations. Solicits donations.
• Transports and/or accompanies program and event participants.
• Provides participants and the general public with information.
• Completes and maintains forms, records, and reports.
• Ensures proper facility and equipment set up and maintenance.
• Maintains inventory of supplies, tools, equipment, trophies, prizes, and mementos.

Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised:

• May provide leadership, work assignments, evaluation, and guidance to others. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.

• Knowledge of recreational programs and activities.
• Knowledge of City practices and policies and Local laws and procedures.
• Knowledge of Federal, State, and Local laws and ordinances.
• Knowledge of fiscal planning and budget preparation.
• Knowledge of supervisory and managerial techniques and methods.
• Knowledge of safety practices and procedures.
• Skill in oral and written communication.
• Skill in using computers and related software applications.
• Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
• Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
• Ability to plan, market, and promote programs.
• Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
• Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with the City and the public.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must be at least 18 years of age with a High School diploma/GED, and no experience required.

Licenses and Certifications Required:

• Appropriate certifications as specified for the assignment.
• May require certification in CPR, First Aid, Water Safety Instruction, or other areas as specified for the assigned class.
• Texas Class "C" Driver or Commercial Driver license if required for the assignment.

Preferred Experience:

• Experience implementing adapted recreational activities to individuals and groups of individuals with disabilities from age six (6) years old to adults.
• Experience working with youth and teens in recreational programming; and in implementing/teaching recreational classes and activities.

Preferred Skills:

• Ability to fluently communicate (reading, writing, speaking) in English and Spanish, or English and another language.

Preferred Programming Knowledge:
Leading and/or instructing one or more of the following types of recreational programming:

• Recreational Games and Activities (Indoor or Outdoor)
• Sports/Athletic Programs
• Science/Nature/Environmental Education
• Outdoor Recreation
• Arts and Crafts
• Team Building
• Therapeutic Recreation, Inclusion and Special Education
• S.T.E.A.M. – Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math.

Other:

• Ability to travel to more than one work location.

Location:

Various City of Austin Recreation Facilities

Work Schedule:

• Variable schedule, 20 to 40 hours per week.
• May be required to work during special events, evenings, weekends & holidays.
• Work schedule and location is subject to change based on department needs and programs.
• May be required to work during city emergencies such as extreme weather events.

Salary: $22.15 per hour.





Compensation Range:





Notes to Candidate:

The City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department (APR) provides, protects and preserves a park system that promotes quality recreational, cultural and outdoor experiences for the Austin community. Working with the City of Austin provides a number of health and welfare benefits, such as medical, paid leave time, a great retirement plan, training opportunities and more! Click HERE for more information.

The purpose of the Seasonal – Activity Programs Instructor position is to work in a recreation program setting specializing in adaptive programming for special needs participants.

Modification & Support Services Sites*:

• Alamo Recreation Center - 2100 Alamo St, Austin, TX 78722
• Dottie Jordan Recreation Center - 2803 Loyola Ln, Austin, TX 78723
• McBeth Recreation Center - 2401 Columbus Dr, Austin, TX 78746
• Parque Zaragoza Recreation Center - 2608 Gonzales St. Austin, TX 78702

*Please note your location preference in the supplemental section of your application. Work location and assignments will be determined during the hiring process and will be at the discretion of the hiring manager.

Additional Details:

• Instructors must be able to adapt workshops and classes to student age, physical ability, and interests.
• Additionally, Instructors provide classroom management and monitor indoor and outdoor breaks, assist with checking students in and out of the program, provide feedback and encouragement, and ensure safe and proper use of equipment, materials, and facility.
• Instructors should enjoy working with youth and sharing their knowledge and love for recreation and the arts in a creative and fun environment, and working with diverse populations.

Application Instructions/Job Requirements:

• Application: A detailed, complete application is required, and applicants must include on their Employment Record all experience (work and/or volunteer) related to this job posting – up to 10 years or more; this will be used to determine your base compensation. Employment Record dates must include month and year. Verification of employment history dates on resume should match online Employment Application. Statements such as “See Resume” will not be accepted and a resume alone will not be accepted in lieu of a complete online application.
• Skills Assessments: Skills assessment(s) may be required as part of the recruitment process.
• Virtual Interviews: APR may conduct virtual interviews.
• Military/Veteran: An applicant claiming Military/Veteran status must provide a copy of his or her DD-214(s), or valid comparable document, at the time of interview.
• Driving Requirements: This position requires a Texas Class C driver license or the ability to acquire one by your hire date. External New Hires must meet the City of Austin’s Driver Record Evaluation (DRE) requisite. To be considered for a driving position, applicants cannot have more than three moving violations or a total of six Driver Record Evaluation points within a period of thirty-six (36) months.
• Physical Requirements: Tasks may involve bending, lifting, walking, carrying, or using a force equal to lifting up to twenty (20) pounds. Must be physically and mentally able to work with participants adapting to a variety of conditions such as daily walking, hiking, climbing, standing, balancing, kneeling, stooping, running, bending, crawling, swimming, stretching, and reaching in rugged terrain. Tolerate loud noise associated with enthusiasm and excitement. Ability to work outside in all types of weather and/or inclement conditions, and in confined spaces.

Other Information:

• Application Status Communication: Please note that you will be contacted if you are selected to move forward in the hiring process. Once the department is no longer hiring for this position, you may receive a notification informing you the position is closed and the hiring process is concluded.
• Travel: If you are selected for this position, and meet the Driver Safety Standards in the City of Austin Driver Safety Program, you may drive when necessary to multiple locations as part of your regular job duties. Otherwise, you are responsible for getting to and from these locations.
• Tobacco and Vape-Free Workplace: APR work site locations are tobacco-free. Use of tobacco products and/or e-cigarettes is not permitted on any APR work site – including construction sites, parking lots, garages or in any personal vehicles located on the premises.

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JOIN THE CITY OF AUSTIN TEAM

 

At the City of Austin, we are more than just an employer—we are a vibrant community dedicated to shaping one of the nation's most dynamic and innovative cities. As we strive to fulfill our commitment as public servants, it is important that we ground our efforts in a set of guiding principles – Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, Engagement, and Equity – that anchor our delivery of services that significantly impact the lives of Austinites. Joining the City of Austin means embarking on a purposeful career, contributing to the community, and being part of a forward-thinking organization that values every employee.

What Makes the City of Austin Special?

• Make a Difference: Join a team driving meaningful change in one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation.

• Value and Innovation: Work in an environment where employees are valued, and innovation thrives.

• Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits.

• Retirement Security: Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System.

• Sustainable Transportation Options: Commute easily with access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure.

• Focus on Wellness: Stay healthy through wellness programs, on-site fitness centers, and mental health support.

• Career Growth: Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities.

• Modern Workspaces: Work in innovative and sustainable environments that foster collaboration and inspiration.

 

By joining us, you become part of a community that values its people and is committed to making Austin the most thriving and resilient city in the country.

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EEO Statement for City of Austin:

The City of Austin will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. In addition, the City will not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of an individual's AIDS, AIDS Related Complex, or HIV status; nor will the City discriminate against individuals who are perceived to be at risk of HIV infection, or who associate with individuals who are believed to be at risk.

City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application process or have a question regarding an essential job function, please call (512) 974-3210 or Texas Relay by dialing 7-1-1.