Recreation Lead Full & Part-time

About the Department

This position is responsible for providing on-site leadership, coordination, and implementation of recreation programming and facility operations across multiple service areas within the Parks and Recreation Department. Primary assignments may include the Viaduct Park complex and system-wide indoor and outdoor ice facilities or aquatic facilities and programming, depending on area of assignment.

Recreation Leads support the delivery of high-quality, year-round programming and facility operations. While the core job functions remain consistent, the specific focus areas and responsibilities will vary based on assigned program and facility areas.

The Recreation Lead works both independently and collaboratively under the direction of the Recreation Coordinator and Recreation Superintendent to support program development, scheduling, staffing, and budget oversight. This position provides direct supervision of seasonal and part-time staff and serves as the lead staff member during assigned shifts, including evenings, weekends, and special events.

Recreation Leads are expected to work collaboratively across program areas and with other Coordinators and Leads to ensure consistency, shared resources, and successful delivery of services across the department.

Ice & Viaduct Focus:
 This assignment emphasizes year-round activation of the Viaduct Park facility, including ice-related programming, youth hockey competitions, open skating, rentals, and non-ice seasonal uses. The position plays a key role in ensuring the facility remains an active and high-quality community destination.

Aquatics Focus:
 The Aquatics Lead plays a key role in creating a safe, welcoming, and engaging aquatic environment for all participants. This position combines lifeguarding responsibilities with leading water fitness classes, planning and conducting lifeguard in-service trainings, and assisting with staff and program scheduling. The Aquatics Lead ensures high standards of safety, instruction, professionalism, and customer service across all aquatic programs.

Specific assignments may be adjusted based on departmental needs.

Full-time position is Monday through Friday, 8am to 4:30pm, with some evening/weekend hours depending on program or event.
Part-time position is Monday through Friday, five days a week, four hour days with some evening/weekend hours depending on program or event.

Position Duties

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Lead the daily operation, coordination, and implementation of programming and activities at assigned facilities.
• Support the development and execution of year-round programming strategies aligned with assigned areas, including ice, aquatics, fitness, and community-based programming.
• Coordinate and schedule facility usage, including rentals, programs, and user groups. Ice assignments include scheduling all indoor and outdoor ice, including youth hockey competitions and open skating.
• Assist in managing and monitoring program budgets, revenues, and expenditures with support and oversight from the Recreation Coordinator.
• Provide direct supervision, scheduling, and coordination of seasonal, part-time, and volunteer staff; assist with hiring, onboarding, and training.
• Serve as the lead staff member during assigned shifts, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality operations and programming.
• Work independently to manage daily operations, troubleshoot issues, and make real-time decisions aligned with department policies and expectations.
• Support and implement recreation programs, events, and activities, including tournaments, community events, and facility activations.
• Coordinate facility setup, scheduling, and operational readiness for programs, events, and rentals.
• Provide high-level customer service and serve as the primary on-site contact for participants, user groups, and the public; resolve concerns in a timely and professional manner.
• Ensure adherence to safety policies and procedures; respond to incidents and emergencies as required.
• Coordinate operational needs with Recreation Coordinators, Parks staff, and other City departments.
• Assist in maintaining program, participation, and facility usage records.
• Support marketing and promotional efforts to increase program participation and community engagement.
• Work collaboratively with other Recreation Leads and Coordinators to ensure consistency, communication, and shared support across programs and facilities.
• Perform related duties as assigned.
• Adhere to all City safety practices and procedures and attend required training.

Assignment-Specific Responsibilities:
Aquatics Focus Areas:

• Monitor pool activities to ensure participant safety and enforce facility rules
• Respond to emergencies, perform rescues, and administer First Aid/CPR
• Plan and conduct lifeguard in-service trainings
• Lead water fitness classes for diverse populations and ability levels
• Assist with opening and closing procedures of aquatic facilities
• Schedule aquatic staff and programs using approved systems and processes
• Maintain accurate records including attendance, incident reports, and training logs
• Support aquatic programs, events, and operations

Ice & Viaduct Focus Areas:

• Lead the activation and programming of Viaduct Park across all seasons
• Coordinate all indoor and outdoor ice scheduling and usage
• Support youth hockey competitions, open skate, and special events
• Assist with event planning, setup, and execution at the facility
• Ensure facility readiness including equipment, lighting, and site coordination

Minimum Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:
High School Diploma or equivalent; and one to two years of experience in recreation programming, aquatics, facility operations, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Certifications in First Aid, CPR, and AED required or ability to obtain within six months of hire.
Preferred Qualifications (Based on Assignment):

• Experience supervising staff or leading programs.
• Experience in ice operations, scheduling, or hockey/skating programs.
• Experience teaching water fitness classes.
• Knowledge of aquatic facility operations and industry standards.
• Higher education in recreation, aquatics, or a related field.
• Strong marketing, communication, and computer software skills.

Aquatics assignments may require or prefer:

• American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification
• Lifeguard Instructor, Water Safety Instructor, or Certified Pool Operator certifications (or ability to obtain)

Supervision Received:
Works under the general supervision of the Recreation Coordinator, or the Recreation Superintendent, depending on area of assignment.
Supervision Exercised:
Provides supervision and direction to seasonal, part-time staff, and volunteers.
Work Environment:
Work is performed in both indoor and outdoor environments, including aquatic facilities, ice facilities, and recreation sites. This position requires evening, weekend, and holiday hours based on programming and facility needs. Work may involve exposure to varying weather conditions and active, high-energy environments.

Other Qualifications

Necessary Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Working knowledge of recreation programming, facility operations, and event coordination.
• Working knowledge of ice operations and/or aquatic operations depending on assignment.
• Ability to supervise staff, provide direction, and maintain accountability.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and make sound operational decisions.
• Ability to organize, prioritize, and manage multiple responsibilities in a dynamic environment.
• Ability to think strategically and support program and facility development.
• Ability to maintain accurate records and utilize recreation management software.
• Ability to provide high-quality customer service and represent the department professionally.

Additional Information:
This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed. It is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications required. The City reserves the right to assign additional duties as needed.

Provides municipal services and community programs to Faribault residents.