Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Recreation Intern

🎯 Role Definition

The Recreation Intern will support the full lifecycle of our recreational programs and services. Under the guidance of experienced Recreation Coordinators and Supervisors, the intern will gain invaluable practical experience in planning, promoting, executing, and evaluating a wide range of activities, from youth summer camps and sports leagues to large-scale community festivals and senior wellness programs. This role is designed to be a comprehensive learning experience, bridging academic knowledge with real-world application and preparing the intern for a successful career in the recreation field. You will be an integral part of our team, contributing directly to the health, happiness, and well-being of our community.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Current undergraduate or graduate student in a relevant field of study.
Recent graduate seeking foundational experience in the recreation industry.
Volunteer or part-time employee with experience in camps, sports, or community centers.

Advancement To:

Recreation Coordinator or Program Coordinator
Recreation Specialist (e.g., Aquatics, Sports, Seniors)
Recreation Supervisor or Program Manager
Event Planner

Lateral Moves:

Community Outreach Coordinator
Guest Services Manager
Non-Profit Program Assistant
Facilities Scheduler

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Assist in the comprehensive planning, development, and on-site implementation of diverse recreational programs, special events, and activities for various age groups and demographics.
Actively lead and supervise participants during scheduled programs, ensuring a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment while effectively managing group dynamics.
Develop and create engaging marketing and promotional materials, including social media content, website updates, newsletters, and flyers, to increase program visibility and drive participation.
Provide exceptional front-line customer service by professionally responding to public inquiries via phone, email, and in-person, offering detailed program information, and resolving participant concerns.
Support essential administrative functions by processing program registrations, managing participant rosters, and handling financial transactions using recreation management software.
Conduct research on emerging recreation trends, perform community needs assessments, and brainstorm innovative ideas for future programs and service enhancements.
Actively participate in the setup and teardown of equipment and supplies for programs, classes, and special events, ensuring facilities are ready and safe for public use.
Uphold and enforce all departmental policies, procedures, and safety standards to minimize risk and ensure a positive experience for all participants and staff.
Document program activities through photography, video, and written summaries for use in future marketing materials and departmental reports.
Assist with the procurement, inventory management, and proper maintenance of program supplies, materials, and athletic equipment.
Facilitate activities by developing lesson plans, gathering necessary supplies, and adapting programming to meet the needs and abilities of the participant group.
Evaluate the effectiveness of programs and events by collecting and analyzing participant feedback, attendance data, and anecdotal observations.
Serve as a positive role model and mentor for program participants, particularly children and teens, demonstrating enthusiasm, responsibility, and good sportsmanship.
Collaborate with full-time staff and other interns on long-term projects, contributing to the overall strategic goals of the department.
Attend and actively participate in mandatory staff meetings, professional development workshops, and safety training sessions.

Secondary Functions

Support the coordination and supervision of volunteers and part-time staff during large-scale community events or programs.
Assist in preparing facilities for rentals and reservations, ensuring a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for private groups.
Perform daily inspections of recreational facilities, playgrounds, and equipment to identify and report any safety hazards or maintenance needs.
Help prepare and track program-specific budgets, monitor expenses, and assist with the generation of financial reports under supervision.
Represent the department at community outreach events, school functions, and local fairs to promote our recreational offerings.
Support ad-hoc data requests and exploratory data analysis related to program demographics and participation rates.
Contribute to the organization's mission by performing other related duties and special projects as assigned by a supervisor.
Participate in sprint planning and agile ceremonies if working within a team utilizing project management methodologies for event execution.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher) for creating documents, spreadsheets, and promotional materials.
Current CPR, First Aid, and AED certification, or the ability to obtain it upon hiring.
Valid state-issued Driver's License and a clean driving record.
Experience with cash handling procedures and operating point-of-sale (POS) systems.
Familiarity with social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) for marketing and community engagement purposes.
Experience with or ability to quickly learn recreation management software (e.g., CivicRec, RecTrac, ActiveNet).

Soft Skills

Exceptional verbal and written communication skills for interacting with the public, staff, and volunteers.
Strong leadership and group management abilities, with a talent for motivating and supervising diverse groups.
High level of creativity, energy, and enthusiasm for planning and leading recreational activities.
Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously.
Proven ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
Superior customer service and interpersonal skills, with a friendly, patient, and professional demeanor.
Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills, with the ability to adapt to changing situations and make sound decisions under pressure.
Dependability, punctuality, and a strong sense of responsibility.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High school diploma or GED and currently enrolled in an accredited college or university.

Preferred Education:

Actively pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree from an accredited college or university.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Parks and Recreation Management
Therapeutic Recreation
Sports Management
Hospitality and Tourism Management
Physical Education
Public Administration
Event Management
Child Development

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 0-2 years of relevant experience.

Preferred:

Prior experience (paid or volunteer) working with children, teens, or other specific populations in a recreational, educational, or camp setting.
Demonstrated experience in leading group activities, coaching a sport, or assisting with event planning.