Lead Recreation Assistant Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Description

The Program Lead supports the day-to-day operations of the facility, helping ensure programs run safely, consistently, and efficiently. This role spends the majority of its time on the floor as Manager on Duty (MOD), providing shift-level operational oversight, staff direction, and safety support across all programs. The Program Lead also supports administrative operations and program logistics, and serves as the first line of coverage for open classes when a coach is unavailable and substitute coverage is needed. The Program Lead plays a key role in advancing the Dominique Dawes Academy's mission by keeping the facility running smoothly for athletes, families, and staff, and by stepping in wherever the day's operational needs require.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary Manager on Duty (MOD) for assigned shifts, overseeing daily facility operations and safety, providing day-of direction in the absence of the General Manager (GM) or Program Manager (PM).
• Open and close the facility according to established procedures, including safety walkthroughs and equipment checks.
• Serve as the first point of contact for parent and family concerns, day-of scheduling issues, or on-floor incidents, resolving or escalating as appropriate.
• Monitor class flow, staff coverage, and floor safety across all programs (gymnastics, ninja, recreational) during assigned shifts.
• Respond to and document incidents, injuries, or behavioral concerns in accordance with academy protocols.
• Assist with program and equipment changeovers across all programs including recreational, junior and ninja to ensure the floor is safely and efficiently prepared for scheduled classes and activities.
• Support front desk and check-in operations during peak hours or staff shortages.
• Support staff scheduling coordination, tracking coverage needs and communicating changes to coaches and management.
• Maintain accurate records of incidents, attendance, and shift logs.
• Respond to family communications regarding account, scheduling, or program questions as needed.
• Attend staff meetings, required training, and administrative check-ins with the GM/PM.
• Support coordination of program logistics across departments, including junior gymnastics, ninja, and recreational gymnastics, with class scheduling, space and equipment allocation, and seasonal calendar planning. 
• Support approved programming initiatives by creating instructional resources, including skill demonstration videos, to help coaches consistently execute lesson plans and program standards.
• Support the Program Manager with event and showcase logistics, including registration, staffing, setup, and breakdown.
• Support the implementation and rollout of new programming initiatives across the facility.
• Serve as the first line of coverage for open class subs when a coach is unavailable, stepping in to teach or assist as needed (across junior gymnastics, ninja, and recreational gymnastics).
• Maintain the coaching knowledge and required certifications necessary to safely lead or support assigned classes when providing coverage.
• Uphold and model the academy's core values of respect, teamwork, and excellence in all interactions.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Core Competencies

• Strong operational and organizational skills; ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Sound judgment and composure under pressure, especially when resolving in-the-moment issues.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with staff, families, and leadership.
• Dependable, punctual, and adaptable across a variety of daily demands.

Requirements

• Strong gymnastics knowledge and experience, either as a participant, coach, or both (required)
• CPR, First Aid, and Safesport certifications (required)
• Previous experience in gymnastics, children's enrichment, fitness, or youth development programs (required)
• Prior management or leadership experience preferred
• Excellent customer service, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to maintain a clean, safe, and engaging environment
• Basic knowledge of sales, enrollment, or business development within a service-based environment is a plus

Work Schedule & Environment

• Onsite presence required to support daily gym operations
• Availability to work evenings and weekends as needed for classes, camps, events, or peak programming times
• Active, energetic gym environment with frequent interaction with children, parents, and staff
• Fast-paced and dynamic setting, requiring adaptability to shifting program and operational needs
• Collaborative, team-focused culture committed to safety, excellence, and fun

Physical Requirements

• Regularly standing, walking, and moving throughout the gym and facility.
• Frequent lifting, moving, and adjusting of gymnastics/ninja equipment (up to 40 lbs).
• Ability to assist with spotting and participate in floor activities when needed.
• Comfortable working in a lively environment with children and families.

The company is an equal opportunity employer, drug-free workplace, and complies with ADA regulations as applicable.