POSITION SUMMARY:

The Program* *Assistant is a PT year-round position that provides support and assistance in developing and implementing outdoor recreation programs and special events for the Parks Department. This position is required to handle many tasks, including the necessary planning, research, coordination, and supervision of outdoor educational programs, workshops, and tours.  Working under the direction of the Superintendent of Recreation, this position also plays a vital role in assisting in the planning, coordinating, and supervising of County Park special events such as concerts, festivals, and other community-based activities.   

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES

Essential Functions:

1. Assists in the planning, implementing, and supervising of existing Parks-sponsored events such as concerts, festivals, and special events.
2. Assists in the planning, implementing, and supervising of existing Park outdoor recreation programs such as nature hikes, fishing, geocaching, orienteering, boating safety, and educational workshops.
3. Support the development of new outdoor recreation programs through research and comparative analysis.
4. Manage the implementation and supervision of various outdoor experiences, such as hikes, birding, paddling, scouting programs, cycling, kayaking, water safety, and winter sports.
5. Support the scheduling and coordination of programs, including sending out information and scheduling of staff and volunteers.
6. Conduct research and work with the Superintendent of Recreation and Director to identify and develop partnership opportunities to promote outdoor recreation.
7. Help manage outsourced athletic programs, such as tennis lessons and volleyball tournaments, that take place in the Park system. Coordinate with other staff to avoid scheduling conflicts. 
8. Assist with training, recruiting, scheduling, and recognizing volunteers for the Parks Department who may serve as recreation instructors, guides, and special event attendants.
9. Help orient and train seasonal staff and interns in relation to the operation of the Parks Recreation and Special Events Programs.
10. Periodically prepare press releases for related activities.
11. Assist with researching and preparing grant proposals.
12. Responsible for working with other staff to implement and plan special events and recreation programs.
13. Other duties as assigned.

Non-essential Functions

1. Maintenance duties as needed.
2. Office administrative duties.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's degree from a college or university with major coursework in parks and recreation, landscape architecture, environmental studies, or related fields. 
• One (1) year of demonstrated outdoor recreation-related and customer service experience working with visitors and volunteers in a public program setting.
• The equivalent combination of education and experience provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Valid Pennsylvania driver's license.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of the principles and basic methods used in the planning, developing, and implementing special events such as concerts and festivals.
• Knowledge of the principles and basic methods used in the planning, developing, and implementing outdoor recreation programs, classes, activities, and events.
• Knowledge of basic principles and practices of park and recreation programs relating to a County park system.
• An appreciation for the natural environment and an eagerness to share this with others.
• Excellent positive public relations and customer service skills.
• Ability to support the planning, organizing, and implementing programs and events. 
• Ability to plan, organize, and facilitate training for staff and volunteers
• Ability to work with the Superintendent of Recreation and Director to cultivate key partnerships with organizations an institutions.
• Self-motivated and detail-oriented, able to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to work with audiences across a range of ages and diverse personal backgrounds and treat visitors and staff with respect and tact. 
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and grammatically.
• Commitment to departmental collaboration and collegiality.
• Ability to adapt to changing departmental needs and priorities.
• Skill in the use of Microsoft Word and related computer programs.
• Must will be required to work varied shifts, including weekends, holidays, and evenings
• Able to handle stress.
• Physical presence in the office is required.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:Ability to work occasionally for extended hours.

• Ability to stand for long periods of time.
• Ability to lift 25 lbs., bend, stoop, climb, and reach.
• Ability to walk at various intervals.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

Will be required to work outside and be exposed to variable weather conditions.

This position description serves as a guideline for communicating the essential functions and other information about the position to the applicant/employee. It is not intended to create a binding employment contract nor cover every detail of the position and may be changed where appropriate.

About Us

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

The County of Berks provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, political affiliation or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

About Us:

Berks County is a combination of rich farm country, industry, beautiful parks, entertainment, and top-notch educational institutions. Whether you are interested in County services, the availability of our parks, tax rates, or other ?county information, this is the place to start.

About the Team

Mission Statement:

It is the mission of Berks County government and all County employees to administer and deliver services to the citizens of the County in the most effective, efficient and professional manner possible within the constraints of the financial resources available.