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Recreation Program Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Performs a variety of duties in support of the MWR Community Recreation program that may include special events, recreation information/resources, command events, community events, trips, tours ...

Recreation Manager

Suffolk, VA ยท On-site

$65K - $103K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Employee must also exercise tact and courtesy in frequent contact with program participants, employees, and volunteers. Reports to the Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation. To perform this job ...

Employee must also exercise tact and courtesy in frequent contact with program participants, employees, and volunteers. Reports to the Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation. To perform this job ...

Licensed Program Assistant

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$37K - $47K/yr

Licensed Program Assistant Loudoun County Government has been named one of Forbes' 2025 Best Large ... Loudoun County Parks, Recreation & Community Services (PRCS) is dedicated to connecting all ...

Showing results 21-40

Recreation Program Assistant information

What is a recreation program assistant?

Recreation Program Assistants are professionals who help organize, implement, and supervise recreational activities and programs for community centers, parks, schools, or other organizations. They work under the direction of recreation coordinators or supervisors and assist with planning events, leading games or activities, and ensuring participants' safety. Their goal is to create engaging, enjoyable experiences for people of all ages while promoting health, wellness, and community involvement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a recreation program assistant?

To thrive as a Recreation Program Assistant, you need knowledge of recreational activities, basic event planning, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with scheduling software, registration systems, and safety protocols is often expected. Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, and the ability to work well with diverse groups help you engage participants and support team efforts. These abilities are crucial for ensuring successful, safe, and inclusive recreation programs that meet community needs.

What are some common challenges faced by recreation program assistants, and how can they be managed?

Recreation Program Assistants often juggle multiple tasks such as setting up activities, coordinating with participants, and handling unexpected schedule changes. One common challenge is managing groups with diverse interests or needs, which requires flexibility and strong communication skills. Building rapport with participants and maintaining clear, proactive communication with supervisors and team members can help address these challenges effectively. Additionally, being adaptable and staying organized are key to ensuring programs run smoothly and participants remain engaged.

What are the most commonly searched types of Recreation Program jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Recreation Program jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Recreation Program Assistant jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Recreation Program Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Recreation Program Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, and 45% Part Time. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Therapeutic Recreation Assistant (Part-Time/Multiple Vacancies)

Arlington County, VA

Arlington, VA โ€ข On-site

$18 - $39.28/hr

Part-time

Posted 25 days ago


Job description


IMPORTANT NOTICE: Arlington County requires all applicants to thoroughly complete each section of the application, including prior job responsibilities, duties, and supplemental questions. While you may attach a resume, it will not replace a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
The Therapeutic Recreation (TR) Office within the Department of Parks & Recreation (DPR) is currently seeking multiple part-time temporary Therapeutic Recreation (TR) Assistants (from entry to leader level) to support our mission of creating accessible, engaging, and meaningful recreational experiences for individuals with disabilities ages 3 to adults in both adapted and general recreation programs.
The TR Office provides inclusive and adapted recreation programs for individuals with disabilities. Programs include teen and adult social clubs, adapted classes in art, fitness, gymnastics, aquatics, and monthly family events. We also provide inclusion support services for individuals participating in general recreation programs, ensuring everyone has access to recreational opportunities.
Responsibilities
Specific duties include:
Not all responsibilities apply to each role. Duties may vary depending on the level and assignment.
  • Assist with leading recreation activities and supporting program operations;
  • Assess participant needs and provide individualized support strategies in inclusive settings;
  • Provide individualized or small group support to participants with disabilities in skill development, expected behaviors, personal care, and fostering independence;
  • Collaborate with staff to facilitate inclusive recreation activities in adapted and general recreation programs;
  • Assist in planning and implementing adapted programs such as social clubs, aquatics, gymnastics, outdoor recreation, art, fitness, and sports classes;
  • Direct or assist in directing adapted programs, by designing and leading inclusive recreation programs, developing individualized support plans, and supervising their implementation;
  • Assistant directors may independently lead activities or program components as assigned;
  • Provide coaching, consultation, and advocacy to staff on inclusion best practices and demonstrate advanced expertise in therapeutic recreation; and
  • Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

The successful candidate will possess integrity, excellent communication skills, and a positive, adaptable approach to supporting a wide range of recreational activities. They will demonstrate initiative, strong organizational skills, and the ability to complete assignments efficiently while contributing to a team-oriented environment.
Qualifications
TR ASSISTANT II (Activity Lead/Inclusion Support): $18.00 -$29.18 Hourly
  • Some experience with individuals with disabilities or supporting recreational programming.

TR ASSISTANT III (Assistant Director/Inclusion Lead): $20.08 - $32.60 Hourly
  • High school Diploma/equivalent; and
  • Some experience administering recreational programs.

TR ASSISTANT IV (Director/Inclusion Lead): $24.17- $39.28 Hourly
  • High school Diploma/equivalent; and
  • Considerable experience administering recreational programs, including experience leading or supervising recreational programs.

Substitution: Successful completion of some college coursework from an accredited college or university may be substituted for the experience requirement.
Desirables: Preference may be given to candidates with experience in one or more of the following:
  • Working with individuals with disabilities, including supporting social inclusion in peer-peer or group settings;
  • Adapting recreational activities to meet individual needs;
  • Assisting participants in and around pools, and providing aquatic instruction or support;
  • Work with a variety of recreational activities; and/or
  • Bilingual in English/Spanish.

Special Requirements
A complete application will include an attached resume.
If selected, staff will be required to:
  • Must possess or obtain the Adult and Child First Aid, CPR, and AED Certifications within 60 days of employment.
  • Provide negative TB results or submit to a TB screening.
  • Provide two references from related work/school experience prior to an offer of employment. Letters of reference may be attached to this application.
  • Successfully complete a criminal background and driver's license check (if the position selected requires a driver's license).
  • Have access to reliable transportation as staff must be able to work and travel to County locations independently.
  • Provide personal care for participants (training provided).

Working Conditions: The worker performs activities inside and outside with exposure to weather.
Please note: Recruitment and interviews for this position will begin in July; however, the projected start date is mid-September. Candidates should be aware that employment is contingent upon successful completion of required pre-employment steps, including fingerprinting/background checks and all HR onboarding documentation. The start timeline is designed to ensure staff are fully onboard and prepared to support the upcoming school year programming cycle.
Additional Information
Work Hours: The position varies in days and hours of work, from 2 hours to 40 hours per week. Programs operate 7 days a week at various times and locations.
The official job titles are Recreation Assistant II, III and IV.
Please note: This recruitment is open continuous, but applicants are encouraged to submit applications as soon as possible. Qualified applicants will be considered and interviewed consistently throughout the recruitment until the job is filled or we receive enough applicants.
Arlington County is committed to advancing diversity, equity, access, and inclusion across all our services, activities, and programs. Learn more about our commitment.
Your responses to the Supplemental Questionnaire are considered part of the selection process. Please do not enter "see resume" as a response to the questions. Each section of the application must be completed. A resume may be attached; however, it will not substitute for the completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered. In accordance with ยง 19.2-392.15, applicants are not required to provide information regarding sealed arrests, charges, or convictions in response to any questions or inquiries during the hiring process.
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