Assistant Recreation Programmer

The Assistant Recreation Programmer (ARP) is responsible for providing direct support to the Recreation Programmer by assisting in the supervision of high performing staff, contract instructors, projects, and other duties, as required.

The Assistant Recreation Programmer provides coordination support of recreation programs and community events and ensures all program areas and equipment are maintained to the highest level and provide quality service to our clientele. This position collaborates with organizations, agencies, and individuals on a specific program or event basis and provides input into future program development for indoor programs. Typical work shifts may include days, evenings, weekends, and statutory holidays.  

Key Responsibilities:  

• Support the planning, coordination, and administration of recreation programs across a variety of program areas
• Support the Recreation Programmer to recruit, hire, train, schedule and evaluate a program staff/contract instructor team
• Assist in day-to-day supervision, ongoing feedback, mentorship, and leadership to instructors, and volunteers
• Collaborate with the Recreation Programmer to develop and enhance staff training, operational procedures, and internal processes that support program excellence
• Coordinate with indoor and outdoor facilities and spaces for program usage
• Support participant engagement initiatives through surveys, feedback collection, guest retention strategies, and orientation programs
• Actively engage with program and facility guests while providing excellent customer service  
• Assist with surveys and feedback collection, guest retention strategies, and orientation programs  
• Attend program, staff, and community meetings as required, representing programs in a professional and positive manner
• Assist with the preparation and distribution of program publicity/promotional material aligning with marketing plans

Qualifications and Skills

• High school diploma combined with a minimum of four years of experience in recreation programming, community services, or a related field
• Experience working in an aquatic environment is considered an asset
• Post-secondary education completed or in progress in Recreation, Physical Education, Tourism, Community Development, or related discipline is preferred. An equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered.
• Minimum two years of program coordination experience, supported by recreation-related leadership and supervisory experience, including staff coaching, performance management, and team development
• Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate teams while maintaining high standards of safety, service excellence, and program quality
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, leadership, and team-building skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with staff, volunteers, participants, and community partners
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant software applications
• Strong customer service orientation with a commitment to creating positive, inclusive, and engaging recreation experiences for all participants

Conditions of Employment:

• Current Intermediate First Aid/CPR & WHIMIS
• Submission of a Satisfactory Vulnerable Sector Check
• Valid Alberta Class 5 Driver’s licence  

Who We Are:
Strathcona County is a specialized municipality located in the heart of Alberta.  Our vision is to become Canada’s most livable community, where our workplace culture and identity are supported by our people plan and values of integrity, respect, safety, collaboration, and accountability.  

Why Join Strathcona County: (depending on position)

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, which includes:
  • Extended health and dental coverage    
  • Health and wellness spending account    
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Retirement and pension programs  
  • Earned day off program
  • Employee and family assistance program
• Commitment to employee development, through internal and external training and development opportunities
• Well-being programs and a safety culture focused on physical and psychological health in the workplace

Equivalencies of education and experience may be considered.

This competition may be used to fill future vacancies for similar positions within the next 6 months.  

Strathcona County is committed to an inclusive, respectful, and equitable workplace that represents the community we serve. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who can contribute diverse perspectives and experiences.
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.