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 Department of Parks & Recreation (DPR) is seeking passionate and energetic individuals for temporary Teen After School Program Staff positions. This is your opportunity to be part of a dynamic team dedicated to creating fun, safe, and enriching after-school experiences for local youth.
About the Teen After School Programs
Our Teen After School Programs are a launchpad for personal growth, community engagement, and lifelong memories. Designed for middle and high school students, these programs offer a variety of activities, including: creative arts, sports & games, academic support, service learning, mentorship, and social connections.
As a Teen After School Program staff member, you'll be a consistent and impactful presence, helping to create a physically and emotionally safe space where teens can explore their interests, develop new skills, and grow into confident, responsible individuals.
- Make a Difference: Play a pivotal role in shaping the lives of Arlington's youth.
- Be Part of a Team: Work alongside dedicated professionals who share your passion for youth development.
- Develop Skills: Gain valuable experience in program planning, leadership, and community engagement.
- Have Fun: Enjoy a vibrant and dynamic work environment where every day brings new challenges and rewards.
Responsibilities
Major Job Duties:
- Maintaining a physically and emotionally safe environment for all participants by celebrating differences, creating appropriate relationships with all participants that are under your care, and supporting participants as they navigate social and emotional development;
- Providing exemplary customer service to each participant, family and guardian;
- Planning, leading, and conducting consistent site programming and recreation activities independently, with minimal Directorial instruction or assistance;
- Maintain a consistent presence on the program floor, leading activities, and ensuring adherence to safety protocols and behavior management standards;
- Model and reinforce positive behavior management techniques in line with Arlington CARES customer service values;
- Planning & leading monthly teen evening special event programs;
- Attending monthly team meetings;
- Participating in program activities enthusiastically and collaboratively to engage teens and encourage participant retention;
- Leading or assisting with completing participant and program evaluations;
- Working with individuals with disabilities and providing personal care of participants (training provided); and
- Performing other job-related duties as assigned.
Successful candidates will be able to collaborate and communicate with others. Additionally, they will have the ability to complete tasks, take initiative, and work successfully in a team environment.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
- Some experience administering recreation programs or working with youth.
Substitution(s): Additional education may be substituted for experience.
Desirable Qualifications: Preference may be given to applicants with experience in one or more of the following:
- Working in youth recreation programs in a leadership role;
- Planning and leading recreational activities;
- Willingness and/or experience working with individuals with disabilities; and/or
- Working with diverse populations.
Special Requirements
Background Check: A pre-employment criminal records check will be conducted. It will include checks of the following: criminal record, driving record, education, professional licensure, and credit history. You will be required to sign a release authorizing the County to obtain your background information.
Driver's License: Applicant must possess, or obtain by time of appointment, a valid driver's license, and must provide or authorize Arlington County to obtain a copy of official driving record. Any offer of employment may be contingent upon favorable review of the applicant's driving record. Alternatively, the applicant must have the ability and willingness to use alternative methods of transportation to perform assigned duties and responsibilities at locations other than the primary worksite.
Professional License/Certifications: First Aid/CPR/AED Certifications may be required by the first day of the program.
Please complete each section of the application including the supplemental questions. Your responses to the supplemental questions are required because they provide us with specific information necessary to evaluate your qualifications for this position. These responses are considered part of the selection process. A resume may be attached; however, it will not substitute for a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please do not write "see resume" as a response to the questions.
Additional Information
Work Hours: Program hours are 2:00-6:00 p.m. or 2:00-7:00 p.m. Monday-Friday from September-June. Staff hours are 21-26 hours per week depending on program location, Additional hours may be available with morning DPR pre-school programs and with Youth, Teen, and Family programs on Arlington Public Schools' early release days, school break days, evenings and weekends. Additional background checks and paperwork are required for staff interested in working with licensed pre-school programs.
The official title of this position is: Recreation Assistant II
The pay range listed above is effective July 1, 2027.
Arlington County is committed to advancing diversity, equity, access, and inclusion across all our services, activities, and programs. Learn more about our commitment.
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