The Specialized Recreation Programs Specialist is responsible for developing, implementing, and supervising special needs programs under the direction and supervision of the Program Manager.

Employee Values: The Town of Wake Forest employees are expected to uphold and exhibit the Town’s shared employee values of caring, commitment, character, and collaboration.

Essential Duties and Tasks

• Oversees, develops, and implements special population programs and events by conducting community surveys; planning activities; supervising and assigning volunteer schedules; reserving facility space; managing program and activity schedules; ordering supplies; evaluating programs; preparing activity and attendance reports; coordinating participant support; and co-sponsoring programs.
• Prepares and maintains program participant files and records
• Analyzes programs and suggests improvements/adjustments as necessary
• Performs intermediate professional and administrative work assisting the Program Superintendent with the planning, organizing, and directing of specialized recreation programs.
• Recruits and recommends sponsors and volunteers
• Prepares reports and records related to special needs programs, including inventory of equipment and recommendations regarding purchases
• Participates in special projects and assignments by assisting Town employees in ADA training; creating procedures and guidelines; participating in accreditation task teams; participating in departmental committees and task t
• Build and maintain relationships with vendors and patrons, providing outstanding customer service through various communication methods when assisting the public.
• Assist with other duties as required.

• Recruit and supervise part-time staff, volunteers, performers, and contract instructors for scheduled programs
• Monitor budget expenditures associated with programming initiatives.
• Provide exceptional customer service, both internally and externally.
• Attend training, conferences, seminars, meetings, etc., to maintain awareness of changing trends and legislation in special events.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of principles, practices, and programming methods for youth and adults with specific needs.
• Ability to effectively plan, schedule, execute, and evaluate small and large special events.
• Ability to plan and coordinate the work of volunteers.
• Ability to express ideas and communicate effectively in written and oral presentations.
• Ability to deal tactfully and courteously with the public.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with parents, volunteers, employees, school personnel, citizens, and Town departments/staff.
• Ability to interpret and explain policies, rules, and procedures to participants, parents, and officials.
• Possess proficiency in basic office software packages (MS Office)

Education/Experience
Any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university with major coursework in therapeutic recreation, physical education, or a related field and some experience in therapeutic, athletic, or physical education programs.  Must have at least 5 years related experience to be considered.

• Possession of a valid North Carolina driver's license.
• The selected candidate will be expected to obtain the following certifications within six months of hire: First Aid/CPR/AED certifications.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to physically perform the basic life operational functions of reaching, talking, and hearing.
• Must be able to perform sedentary work, occasionally exerting up to at least 50 pounds of force and up to a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects of at least 50 pounds.
• Must possess the visual acuity to prepare and analyze data, operate a computer terminal, do extensive reading, utilize measuring devices, and inspect the work of others.