Recreation Program Assistant

Job Description:

Recreation Program Assistant

Description

Description

The City of Tustin is currently seeking professional, community-focused applicants for the position of Recreation Program Assistant. This recruitment will be used to fill two vacancies that offer an opportunity to support the important work of the Tustin Parks and Recreation Department and contribute to programs and services that create community through people, parks, and programs.

Current vacancies include:

• Two part-time, hourly, non-benefited positions to support either Veterans Sports Park or Tustin Sports Park, working primarily nights and weekends.

THE POSITION

The selected candidates will provide administrative, customer service, and program support within the City’s Parks and Recreation Department. These positions are ideal for individuals who enjoy working with the community, demonstrate leadership and creativity, and understand that every program, event, and interaction contributes to a positive recreational experience. Responsibilities include overseeing programs and classes, assisting with citywide special events, monitoring parks and picnic shelters, coordinating schedules, communicating with permitted users and the public, processing permits and fees, updating field-condition information during inclement weather, and supporting a variety of recreational activities in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.

This is a part-time, at-will, non-benefitted position, with total hours limited to fewer than 1,000 per fiscal year. Hours may vary from week to week; however, this position requires evening and weekend availability. Evening shifts are generally scheduled from 5:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Weekend shifts are typically from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. An additional evening shift from 5:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. may be scheduled on weekends when tournaments or other special events are held. Shift schedules are subject to change based on departmental needs.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

The ideal candidate is dependable, organized, creative, and flexible, with the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team. They communicate professionally, exercise sound judgment, and take pride in supporting recreation programs, community events, park operations, and essential administrative tasks. Strong computer skills, including proficiency using Microsoft Office, are desirable, as well as experience using Canva to create flyers and social media content. Candidates who can manage changing priorities and work comfortably in both office and outdoor settings will thrive in this role.

THE CITY

Tustin is a vibrant and charming city nestled in the heart of Orange County. The City remains true to its quaint heritage while warmly welcoming neighbors and planning for purposeful growth in the future. Called home by a passionate and diverse community, Tustin is a place for all generations and every walk of life. Behind this beloved community, there is a team of practiced public servants who steward the City’s future while maintaining its unique charm and rich history. By balancing the needs of today with optimism for tomorrow, the City of Tustin works to realize its vision of a safe, high-quality and thriving community.

THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS

Application materials will be carefully reviewed to identify candidates who meet the minimum qualifications for the position. Those who are best qualified may then be invited to participate in a one-way video interview (week of 8/17). Candidates who are determined by subject matter experts to be the best qualified for the vacancies will be invited to a structured panel interview (week of 8/31). Dates are tentative and may change if necessary.

All candidates who pass the panel interview will earn placement on the eligible list, which is valid for one (1) year and may be used for current and future vacancies in the job classification.

Examples of Duties

As a part-time Recreation Program Assistant, incumbents will perform a wide variety of duties. Examples of these duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Assists a Recreation Coordinator with planning, developing, and organizing recreation programs and special events
• Implements specific recreation activities such as dances, luncheons, games, and sporting events; plans event activities and assigns staff to required duties
• Prepares promotional materials for scheduled events, including brochures, posters, advertisements, and flyers
• Assists in monitoring the daily operations and activities of a recreation facility; monitors performance of Recreation Leader staff; ensures rules and procedures are followed by patrons
• Prepares equipment, fields, and facilities for assigned activities
• Assists with registering participants in classes and sports programs and booking facilities for events; collects and processes fees; maintains files and records of transactions and schedules
• Provides assistance to facility patrons and the general public; answers questions regarding facility usage and program, activity, and event specifics; responds to requests for human services needs and refers patrons to appropriate resources
• Evaluates assigned programs, activities, and special events; makes recommendations for improvements and new programs and services
• Provides lead supervision to Recreation Leaders and volunteers; trains new employees on work procedures

Minimum Qualifications

A combination of education, experience, and training that has provided the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities is required for entry into the classification. A typical combination includes:

Education and/or Experience:

Graduation from high school; and one (1) year of paid or volunteer recreation experience in the area of assignment.

Licenses and/or Certificates:

Possession of a valid Class C California driver's license and an acceptable driving record. Valid First Aid and CPR certificates are required within six (6) months of employment.

Special Requirements:

Satisfactory results from a background investigation, physical examination and administrative screening. Occasionally required to work extended hours which may include evenings, weekends, and holidays. Bilingual skills are desirable.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

To view the knowledge, skills, & abilities expected of the position, please follow the link here.

Working Conditions & Physical Demands

Information on the physical demands, mental demands, and work environment for the position can be found by following the link here.

The City of Tustin is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities .

Employment for this group is at-will and based on continued programmatic needs. No guarantees are made related to hours or longevity. Hours are limited to less than 1,000 hours per fiscal year.

Employees do not receive health, retirement, or any other benefits unless otherwise required by law .

DEFERRED COMPENSATION

In lieu of Social Security, e mployees are required to contribute 5.5% of salary on a pre-tax basis every pay period to an OBRA 457 deferred compensation plan. The City contributes an additional 2%, for a total combined contribution of 7.5%.

Closing Date/Time: 8/11/2026 5:00 PM Pacific

Salary:

$24.00 Hourly