Job Description

The Youth Outdoors Recreation Specialist l, possessing advanced knowledge and skills, plans, implements and assists in evaluation of Youth Outdoors programs to provide urban youth hands-on outdoor adventure recreation and learning experiences that build self-confidence, teach and practice leadership skills, develop decision-making abilities, encourage positive interactions with others and foster an appreciation of nature. Programs also focus on increasing urban youth’s environmental awareness and concern for the conservation and preservation parks and natural areas through experiential outdoor education.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Assists YO Manager in administrative activities including, but not limited to, program development, scheduling, record keeping, data compilation, report writing, grant administration, special events, coordination of research, budgeting, interviews and other responsibilities as assigned

2. Serves as the responsible party in the absence of the YO Manager and 4-H Extension Educator. Maintains communication with Director of Outdoor Experiences, Park Manager, Rangers, City of Cleveland Recreation Centers and others to ensure effective operation of Youth Outdoors.

3. Proposes plans, develops and implements outdoor recreation programs for Youth Outdoors that serve to enhance the mission, vision and values of the Youth Outdoors sponsoring agencies, i.e., Cleveland Metroparks, Ohio State University and City of Cleveland.

• Designs, facilitates, provides skills instruction and helps evaluate quality outdoor adventure recreation and environmental education programs within the park district and at off-site locations.
• Presents programs at assigned locations. Programs will often be at non-standard hours, on weekends, evenings and holidays.
• Assists in training and direction of volunteers, seasonal staff and contract instructors as assigned.
• Ensures that program content reflects the goals of Youth Outdoors.
• Assists in evaluating programs, offers recommendations for improvement and actively participates in revision of programs.
• Drives Youth Outdoors van to transport youth and equipment as required.
• Maintains Youth Outdoors equipment and program materials.
• Maintains accurate records of programs delivered, attendance and program evaluation data.

4. Purchases supplies, as directed, for Youth Outdoors programs.

5. Researches, designs and develops educational or promotional materials such as handouts, brochures and presentations as assigned.

6. May provide coordination for special events or projects involving Youth Outdoors.

​QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor degree, area of specialization in environmental education, outdoor recreation, natural resources, youth development, or related discipline preferred, from an accredited college or university, or equivalent relevant experience.

• Minimum three years experience in park recreation programs, outdoor adventure recreation, or equivalent.

• Experience in program administration and management is beneficial.

• Demonstrated in-depth experience in outdoor recreation skill areas. Preferred skill areas include canoeing, kayaking, backpacking, camping, orienteering, cross-country skiing, fishing, bicycling, rock climbing and initiative ropes course activities.

• Demonstrated experience leading outdoor recreation activities is preferred. Demonstrated experience working with urban youth and volunteers is preferred. Demonstrated ability to work with diverse populations.

• Demonstrated passion for the outdoors, which includes the ability and interest to share knowledge and experiences with youth.

• Demonstrated organizational skills including verbal and written communication, computer and technology skills for the office, problem solving, and conflict management required.

• Successfully pass drug screen, background and criminal investigation checks is required.

• Must have a good driving record (less than six (6) active points on driving records at the application stage of the hiring process) and possess a valid driver’s license.

• Must be a non-smoker/tobacco user.

DATE POSTED: 09/25/2015
FILING DEADLINE: 10/9/2015
FULL SALARY RANGE: $43,196 - $64,794/Annually / Typical Hiring Salary: $43,196 - $53,996/Annually
TO APPLY: Your cover letter must clearly explain how your skills and experience align with the above job qualifications.

E-mail résumé referencing job #15230 to:

resumes@clevelandmetroparks.com