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Urec Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Urec information

What is a URec?

Urec jobs typically refer to positions within University Recreation departments, which are responsible for organizing and managing recreational programs and facilities at universities. These jobs can include roles such as fitness instructors, facility managers, intramural sports coordinators, lifeguards, and front desk staff. Urec staff help promote student wellness, oversee campus recreational centers, and ensure safe, inclusive environments for fitness and leisure activities. Working in Urec can provide valuable leadership, communication, and organizational experience, especially for students or individuals interested in health and wellness careers.

What skills and qualifications are needed to work in URec?

To thrive as a University Recreation (URec) professional, you need knowledge of recreation program planning, facility management, and a relevant degree such as recreation, sports management, or a related field. Familiarity with recreation management software, risk management protocols, and certifications like CPR/AED are typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, leadership, and the ability to work effectively with diverse student populations set candidates apart. These skills and qualities are essential for creating engaging, safe, and inclusive recreational experiences that support student well-being and campus life.

What challenges do URec staff face and how can new hires manage them?

University recreation staff often encounter challenges such as balancing the diverse needs of students, faculty, and community members, as well as managing multiple programs and facility schedules. New hires should be prepared to demonstrate strong communication and organizational skills, quickly adapt to changing priorities, and work collaboratively with a team. Actively seeking feedback, staying open to learning, and participating in professional development opportunities can help staff effectively navigate these challenges and contribute positively to the campus environment.

What is the difference between Urec vs Fitness Instructor?

AspectUrecFitness Instructor
CertificationsCPR, AED, and Urec-specific trainingCPR, AED, fitness certifications (e.g., ACE, NASM)
Work EnvironmentCampus recreation centers, gyms, universitiesGyms, fitness clubs, community centers
Employer & IndustryUniversities, colleges, campus recreation departmentsPrivate gyms, fitness chains, community organizations
Job FocusManaging recreation facilities, organizing activities, ensuring safetyLeading fitness classes, personal training, client engagement

Urec roles typically focus on managing campus recreation facilities and organizing activities, requiring certifications like CPR and AED. Fitness Instructors primarily lead fitness classes and personal training sessions, often holding industry-specific certifications. While both work in health and fitness environments, Urec positions are more centered on facility management within educational institutions, whereas Fitness Instructors focus on direct client fitness training in gyms or community settings.

What are popular job titles related to Urec jobs in Virginia?

For Urec jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Urec job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, and 26% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.

Assistant Teacher - Young Children's Program (Part-Time, Multiple Positions)

JAMES MADISON UNIVERSITY

Harrisonburg, VA • On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


James Madison University rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

338th of 620 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Assistant Teacher - Young Children's Program (Part-Time, Multiple Positions)
Job no: 20001375
Work type: Part-time - Wage / Part-time Salaried
Location: Harrisonburg
Categories: Other
Working Title: Assistant Teacher - Young Children's Program (Part-Time, Multiple Positions)
State Role Title: Education Support Assistant
Position Type: Part-time - Wage / Part-time Salaried
Position Status: Part-Time
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt: Eligible for Overtime
College/Division: College of Education
Department: 100085 - Young Children's Program
Pay Rate: Hourly
Specify Range or Amount: $16 -$20 per hour
Is this a JMU only position? No
Is this a grant-funded position? No
Is this a Conflict of Interest designated position? No
Beginning Review Date: 07/26/2025
About JMU:
JMU is a publicly funded university with a beautiful campus and a supportive community that is committed to preparing students for the future. JMU offers several perks to all employees including:
• A Tuition Waiver Program that allows employees to have tuition waived for undergraduate and graduate level courses taken at JMU.
• Free Access to the University Recreation Center (UREC): Employees can enjoy facility access and program registration privileges at UREC and University Park. This includes the climbing wall, equipment centers, and group exercise studios.
• A variety of voluntary benefits such as Pet Insurance, Identity Theft and Legal Protection Plans, and several other supplemental benefits.
• Holiday Breaks: The university is granted 12 holidays a year.
• Talent Development Trainings: The Talent Development department offers a wide variety of personal and professional trainings, eligible for all employees to join.
Visit our Benefits site to learn more about the benefits that James Madison University offers to part-time employees!
General Information:
The Assistant Teachers will work with other staff members to provide an optimal learning environment for young children. These positions will be responsible for ensuring the physical, social, cognitive and educational needs of young learners are met.
Duties and Responsibilities:
-Supervise and interact with children by supporting opportunities that promote educationally and developmentally-stimulating learning activities.
-Initiate interactions among children and communicate using a style that builds relationships and promotes teamwork.
-Collaborate with and support Lead Teacher.
-Maintain working knowledge of and follow VDSS licensing standards for child care at all times.
-Maintain working knowledge of and follow NAEYC accreditation standards at all times.
-Always be within sight and sound of children.
-Promote the safety and security of all children at all times.
-Support and carry out/implement the program policies to ensure a high level of safety and service.
-Demonstrate ability to anticipate the needs of children and parents.
-Interact professionally and respectfully with parents.
-Participate in meetings and professional development opportunities.
-Ensure assigned classroom or area is properly cleared and cleaned up at the end of the program per VDSS standards.
Qualifications:
Required Qualifications:
-Direct experience caring for young children from birth to age 5.
-Basic knowledge of child development from birth to preschool.
Additional Considerations:
-Previous experience in a preschool classroom or childcare setting is beneficial, but not required.
Conditions of Employment:
Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background check and central registry background check. Requirements of the VA Department of Social Services for criminal background checks, fingerprint checks and a TB test must be met as a condition of initial and continued employment.
These are part-time wage positions working up to an average of 29 hours per week over the course of a calendar year with no benefits.
E-Verify Notice: After accepting employment, new hires are required to complete an I-9 form and present documentation of their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. James Madison University uses the E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.
EEO Statement:
James Madison University is committed to creating and supporting a diverse and inclusive work and educational community that is free of all forms of discrimination. This institution does not tolerate discrimination or harassment on the basis of age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, genetic information, national origin, parental status, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or veteran status.
We promote access, inclusion and diversity for all students, faculty, staff, constituents and programs, believing that these qualities are foundational components of an outstanding education in keeping with our mission. The university is interested in candidates whose experience and qualifications support an ongoing commitment to this core quality.
Anyone having questions concerning discrimination should contact the Office for Equal Opportunity: (540) 568-6991.
Reasonable Accommodation:
If you are an individual with a disability and need assistance searching or applying for jobs please contact us at (540) 568-3597 or jobs@jmu.edu. You may also visit the JMU Human Resource Office, located at 752 Ott Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22807 and we will be happy to assist you.
Advertised: 18 Jul 2025 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:
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