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The Program Specialist develops, plans, implements, and evaluates child related program and education within the Arts, Parks, and Recreation Department. Major responsibilities include operating, evaluating, and managing multiple Ohio Department of Job and Family Services licensed childcare programs; to include teaching a part-time preschool program, before and after school program, toddler classes, and a full-time summer day camp program. The City of Athens Arts, Parks and Recreation Department holds high value in a positive culture and successful programming.  This position is in the classified service of the City, requires a six month probationary period, and is exempt from the Fair Labor Standards Act.

This position is in Pay Grade 5 of the Non-Union pay scale with a range of $21.71 - $29.30 per hour with a target starting range of $21.71 - $23.61 per hour. The normal schedule is 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday – Friday.  The regular reporting location will be at the Athens Community Center, 701 E. State St., Athens, OH 45701.

Applications will be accepted until Thursday, December 7th at 4 p.m. Save the exam information below and as long as you apply before the deadline you should plan on attending the exam.

A Civil Service Exam will be administered for this position on Friday, December 8th, 2023 at 10 a.m. at the Athens Community Center, 701 E. State St., Athens, OH 45701. Applicants must show a valid, government issued Picture ID for entry to the test. Applicants must achieve a minimum passing score of 70% on the exam. To be eligible for military credit, a copy of the DD-214 showing honorable discharge must be submitted with the application packet. Members of the National Guard are also eligible for 15% credit. Only one type of military credit will be applied to a passing grade. No further notice will be given about the exam.  General inquires may be sent to Human Resources via email: HumanResources@ci.athens.oh.us or by calling: 740-592-3367.

Employees enjoy a generous benefits package such as:

• Paid holidays
• Sick leave
• Vacation time
• A comprehensive health insurance plan (including but not limited to prescription, vision, dental, and life insurance)
• Public employee pension match of 14%
• A fitness center membership.

Job Duties:

• Develops, organizes, supervises, and evaluates recreation programs, daycare programs, summer camp, specialized camps, and special events for all age groups.
• Directs childcare programs for pre-school to grade school children and other leisure programs.
• Teaches Pre-school.
• Adheres to the child program guidelines and licensing requirements of the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.
• Coordinates off-site programs.
• Enforces rules of facilities, equipment use and programs.
• Assists with budget preparation and report writing.
• Interviews and recommends applicants for program supervisors, teachers, instructors, student teachers, practicum students, externs, and volunteers.
• Supervises and evaluates program staff, including part-time and seasonal employees.
• Schedules programs and use of facilities in relation to child specific programming.
• Coordinates fund raising activities and promotes interest in programs.
• Writes grant applications.
• Purchases equipment and supplies for all child programs.
• Assumes other responsibilities and performs other related duties as needed.

Job Specifications & Qualifications:

• Meet Administrator Qualifications for ODJFS Rule 5101:2-12-07
• Meet the attendance requirements of the position, which calls for a flexible work schedule including evenings, weekends and holidays.
• Occasional standing, walking, sitting, lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling up to 50 pounds.
• Frequent direct, email, and telephone communications.
• Occasional visual staff/child and program observation at near and far distance.
• Work both inside and outside in varying climatic conditions.
• Frequent writing, math calculations, problem solving, reading, proofreading, reasoning, and analyzing.
• Strong computer skills and registration software skills are essential.
• Excellent written, oral, organizational and interpersonal communications skills.
• Extensive knowledge of licensing regulations regarding programs for children and experience in supervising and teaching multiple child programs.
• Possession of a valid Ohio driver’s license and an excellent driving record.
• Bachelor of Science in Recreation Studies, Education or Family Studies or related discipline from an accredited college or university is preferred, not required.
• Experience in a recreation setting developing, implementing, and supervising programs for various age groups is preferred.
• Six hour Communicable Disease Course and a 6 hour Child Abuse and Neglect Course are required within 30 days of hire.

The City may consider any other equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

A background is required, including FBI/BCI. TB test.

First Aid and CPR certification must be obtained upon employment.

This position has been identified as being occupationally-at-risk for bloodborne pathogens.

This is a general description intended to provide general duties and qualifications.  Any one position may not include all of the duties listed, nor do the examples cover all of the duties that may be performed.  It is not intended to cover all situations, or all necessary qualifications.  Job descriptions are subject to change.

The City of Athens, OH is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.