This is paraprofessional work in developing and implementing recreation programs for the Police Athletic League including educational youth programming.  The work requires knowledge of the techniques, methods, and procedures used in recreational activities such as outdoor and indoor activities and educational games, sports and nature-based pursuits, which involves the use of specialized skills which is learned on the job or through specialized training.  Contacts require skills in understanding, and/or influencing people and are important in providing services to participants, including skills of persuasiveness, assertiveness, and sensitivity to others point of view that are required to influence behavior, change an opinion or turn a situation around. The work is semi-routine in that tasks are covered by procedures or precedents, but some latitude is permitted to consider the most appropriate method, technique or procedure to follow.  The work is patterned involving similar situations and generally requiring only the choice of the correct procedure.  The work is performed indoors and outdoors where there are some risks and hazards, but they are known, predictable and controllable.  Operates a motor vehicle.  Operates a personal computer using word processing, spreadsheet, database and other related software and other standard office equipment. Physical activity is moderate and requires regular physical activity such as playing basketball, completing basic exercises, standing for extended periods of time walking up to 3 miles in a day, and moving/lifting objects weighing less than 50 pounds.  The work is performed under general supervision where the work assignments are varied and, although subject to standard practices and procedures, the worker is permitted some latitude to set own priorities subject to superior’s approval. 

• Develops and implements diverse recreational programs for youth which may include leading exercise programs, participating in athletic activities, and/or providing homework assistance.
• Ensures effective relationships and communications and partnerships with community agencies, governmental/health organizations, educational institutions, and local civic/business organizations in support of PAL initiatives.
• Assists with marketing and outreach activities to encourage program participation through effective communications and the dissemination of publicity and promotional materials.
• Assists with ensuring maintenance of program compliance with funding/grant parameters and applicable local and state regulatory standards and requirements.
• Explains and enforces safety procedures and rules.
• Administers emergency first aid, if necessary.
• Identifies supplies needed for administrative tasks and scheduled programs.
• Maintains inventory of on-site supplies as well as usability and safety of on-site equipment.
• Performs basic administrative tasks including maintaining programming records and completing reports.
• Responsible for the general upkeep/maintenance of the facility.
• May operate a vehicle to collect and deliver supplies.
• Demonstrates proficiency in the City of Jacksonville’s competencies.
• Performs related work as required.

• Knowledge of rules, practices and procedures associated with outdoor and indoor recreational activities and homework assistance.
• Knowledge of safety procedures and rules to be followed during recreational activities.
• Knowledge in conducting community outreach and promoting recreational programs.
• Skill in the use and maintenance of equipment needed for outdoor and indoor recreational activities.
• Ability to read, understand, and follow written materials pertaining to recreational activities, which includes homework assistance and departmental policies and procedures.
• Ability to complete regular physical activity for a minimum of 4 consecutive hours such as playing basketball, completing basic exercises, standing for extended periods of time and walking up to 3 miles.
• Ability to maintain records and prepare reports.
• Ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.
• Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations.
• Ability to provide homework assistance to grades K – 7^th.
• Ability to administer emergency first aid.
• Ability to interact with the general public applying recognized customer service standards.
• Ability to operate standard office equipment such as a personal computer, using word processing, spreadsheet, database and other related software.
• Ability to clean the facility including restrooms, windows, floors, etc.
• Ability to operate a motor vehicle.

OPEN REQUIREMENTS:  Two years of education and/or experience in recreation, leisure services, physical education or a related field or in providing services to school-age children, which must include at least one year of experience or education directly related to the recreation or education field.  Must pass background screening on a local, state and federal level as required by the State of Florida Children and Family Services. 

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:  The probationary period for this class is six months.  This classification performs safety-sensitive functions and is subject to pre-employment, random and other drug/alcohol testing programs as set forth in the City of Jacksonville’s Drug Free Workplace Policy (0401).

The City of Jacksonville is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access Employer and will provide equal opportunity to all employees and applicants in compliance with all applicable federal and state employment laws and the current interpretation of employment discrimination by the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, as set forth in Directive 0528.  There shall be no discrimination or harassment against any person with regard to race, color, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, political affiliation, national origin, disability, age, marital status, veteran status, or any other impermissible factor in recruitment, hiring, compensation, training, placement, promotion, discipline, demotion, transfers, layoff, recall, termination, working conditions and related terms and conditions of employment.