Job Description:
Activity Specialist - Parks & Recreation (Temporary/Part-Time)
Description
ABOUT THE POSITIONThe Activity Specialist will be assigned to Parks and Recreation- Parks or Gym. This position will be responsible for overseeing park operations, park programming, sports programming, supervision of part-time employees, and other various duties.
The City is currently seeking a total of four (4) Activity Specialists to fill the following specialized tracks:
- Sports Programming (1 Vacancy): Responsible for executing athletic programs, coordinating leagues, and overseeing sports-related facility activities.
- Facilities Management & Operations (3 Vacancies): Responsible for day-to-day facility oversight, inventory control, and public works/janitorial operations.
TEMPORARY/PART-TIME APPOINTMENTS : Work hours are flexible for an average of twenty (20) hours per week. Part-Time shifts may not exceed 999 hours on a fiscal year basis (July 1 through June 30).
Temporary/Part-time appointments do not qualify for City benefits, except for those required by law. The City does not belong to the Social Security system; however, enrollment in an alternative retirement program is mandatory which requires an employee contribution of 7.5% of base earnings. The City contributes 2.5% and the employee contributes 5% of base earnings. There are no rights to employment and employment may end with or without cause or advance notice.
Certain City operational budgets may not include funding for mandated CalPERS employer contributions; therefore, a qualified candidate who is a current member of CalPERS may be restricted from temporary/part-time employment with the City of Downey.
EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONSThe following examples are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by persons assigned to this classification.
Depending on assignment, duties may include but are not limited to the following:
- Answers the telephone and serves the general public, giving information as required.
- Coordinates, promotes, implements and evaluates recreation activities as assigned.
- Creates flyers, updates social media, and corresponds with partners.
- Organizes and schedules recreational activities and sports leagues.
- Recruits, supervises, evaluates, trains and disciplines part-time employees.
- Prepares or coordinates the development of event publicity, including news releases, flyers, pamphlets and brochures.
- Schedules working hours for part-time recreation staff.
- Administers and coordinates payroll duties for assigned personnel.
- Participates in the development of the annual budget for a recreation activity or group of activities.
- Maintains records and develops reports concerning new or ongoing programs and program effectiveness.
- Maintains storeroom inventory of supplies, public works materials, and necessary equipment.
- Distributes equipment and supplies to staff.
- Oversees basic facility maintenance, janitorial needs, and general park operations.
QUALIFICATIONSAny combination of education, training, and work experience to demonstrate possession of the knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform in the position is qualifying. A typical combination is as follows:
Education: High School graduate or equivalent.
Experience: Two (2) years of experience in the recreation, sports, or facilities field.
Desired Qualifications:For Sports Programming Assignment:Experience in c oaching and officiating sports programs.
Background in sports marketing and/or sports management.
Experience as a former high school or collegiate athletic player.
For Facilities Assignment:Background or experience in facility management, janitorial operations, or public works.
Experience with storeroom and inventory management.
Knowledge of: Correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary; interpersonal skills using tact, patience, and courtesy; principals and applications of the Microsoft Office Applications including Word and Excel.
Ability to: Communicate clearly and effectively, orally and in writing and maintain effective relationships with public and staff; understand and follow oral and written directions; and work cooperatively with others; provide leadership; work with minimum supervision; and plan and organize their work and the work of others.
License/Certification: Due to the performance of field duties, which may require operation of a motor vehicle, a valid California Class C Driver's License or the ability to utilize an alternative method of transportation when needed to carry out job-related essential functions is required. Those required to drive must have an acceptable driving record at the time of appointment and throughout employment.
California Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) Pull Notice System: An incumbent appointed to certain positions are subject to enrollment in the California DMV Pull Notice Program. The Pull Notice program provides information on the incumbent's driving record and Driver's License status on a periodic basis to the City of Downey. An employee assigned a City vehicle must acknowledge receipt and understanding of City Administrative Regulations covering the use of City vehicles.
Physical Tasks and Environmental Conditions: While performing the essential functions of this job, the incumbent is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects; ascend and descend stairs; maintain body equilibrium to prevent falling when walking, standing, crouching, or running; move about on hands and knees; bend body downward and forward, requiring full use of the lower extremities and back muscles; reach with hands and arms; speak and hear; and push, pull and/or lift 10 to 25 pounds frequently and up to 50 pounds occasionally. bend at the waist; kneel; sit, stand and walk for extended periods of time.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONAll applications materials received by the application deadline will be reviewed and evaluated on the basis of information submitted to determine the level and scope of the candidate's preparation for the position. All information supplied by applicants is subject to verification.
Those applicants, who most closely match the desired qualifications, will be invited to participate in the examination process, which will consist of an appraisal examination weighted 100%. The appraisal examination may consist of performance testing and/or an oral interview to assess the applicant's knowledge, education, experience, and general ability to perform the essential functions of the position.
Candidate(s) who complete testing with acceptable results will be considered by the Department hiring authority. Prior to an employment offer, a comprehensive background investigation is conducted, including fingerprinting. A pre-placement medical examination, including a drug screen will be conducted upon issuance of a conditional offer of employment.
Temporary/Part-Time Appointments: Temporary/Part-time appointments do not qualify for City benefits, except for those required by law. The City does not belong to the Social Security system. However, enrollment in an alternative retirement program is mandatory which requires an employee contribution of 7.5% of base earnings. The City contributes 2.5% and the employee contributes 5% of base earnings. There are no rights to employment and employment may end with or without cause or advance notice.
Part-time shifts may not exceed 999 hours on a fiscal year basis (July 1 through June 30).
Certain City operational budgets may not include funding for mandates CalPERS employer contributions. Therefore, a qualified candidate who is a current member of CalPERS may be restricted from temporary/part-time employment.
The City of Downey is proudly committed to continuously improving the quality of life for the Downey community by providing excellent service in a professional, ethical, and responsible manner.Our values includeIntegrity, Commitment, Respect, Teamwork, Engagement, Passion, and Excellence.
Closing Date/Time: 8/7/2026 5:30 PM Pacific
Salary:
$18.90 - $19.90 Hourly