Employment and Internship Opportunities 

FULL-TIME RECREATION LEADER

TOWNSHIP OF SCOTCH PLAINS

The Township of Scotch Plains Department of Parks and Recreation is seeking a Full-Time Recreation Leader to join our team.  This is an entry-level professional position, ideal for recent college graduates or early-career professionals eager to gain experience in the field of community recreation, event management, and/or parks and facility operations.  The Recreation Leader assists in the planning and coordination of a wide variety of recreational programs, activities, and special events that enhance the quality of life for residents of all ages.

Position Details:

• Location: Scotch Plains, New Jersey
• Type: Full-Time
• Level: Entry Level
• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Parks & Recreation, Leisure Studies, Sport Management, or a related field required
• Salary Range: $35,000 - $40,000; includes health benefits

Key Responsibilities:

Program Coordination & Leadership

• Assist in the plan, organizing, marketing, implementing, leading, supporting, and evaluating recreational programs, activities, and community events
• Provide general supervision of scheduled programs; may occasionally lead, oversee, and participate including, but not limited to, filling in as a program instructor, coach, referee/umpire/official as needed
• Assist with scheduling, facility preparation, setup/breakdown, and supply management
• Support the full coordination of programs – ensuring timely registration, schedule creation, team assignments, communicating rules and updates to all participants and seasonal staff, etc.
• Monitor all programs and facility operations to ensure compliance with Township policies, procedures, and safety standards
• Conduct routine checks of program sites, equipment, and participant behavior to identify and correct any issues promptly while maintaining a professional and customer-focused approach to rule enforcement

Customer Service & Administration

• Provide front-line customer service by responding to phone calls, emails, and in-person inquiries in a timely manner
• Answer inquiries, process registrations, collect fees and process payments
• Learn and utilize Community Pass registration software and other point-of-sale systems
• Maintain accurate records, reports, and participant data
• Resolve participant and resident concerns courteously and efficiently
• Provide general administrative support to the department
• Maintain program records, attendance, and reports accurately and promptly

Staff & Volunteer Support

• Play a key role in recruiting, onboarding, supervising, and supporting seasonal employees, coaches, and volunteers
• Lead or assist training sessions for summer camp counselors and youth sports staff
• Conduct or support pre-season parent and/or coaches’ meetings for leagues and programs
• Accompany senior groups on off-site trips to provide supervision and ensure participant safety
• Serve as a hands-on team member, working alongside staff and volunteers to deliver quality programming

Marketing & Promotion

• Collaborate on marketing campaigns to increase awareness and participation
• Develop and design seasonal brochures, flyers, and social media content to promote programs and events using tools like Canva
• Maintain the department’s social media presence by drafting engaging posts, taking photos/videos at events, and assisting with content scheduling
• Maintain and update bulletin boards, display cases, and other promotional signage to keep information current
• Coordinate with local media outlets, schools, and other community partners to cross-promote initiatives

Facility & Operations Management

• ·       Coordinate picnic area and other facility rentals, ensuring accurate scheduling, fee collection, and communication with users
• ·       Monitor parks and building facilities, enforcing policies and maintaining safety standards
• ·       Maintain inventory of supplies and equipment; assist with ordering and procurement
• ·       Perform basic field preparation and facility set-up/breakdown for programs, activities, and events

Financial & Purchasing Support

• ·       Assist with department purchasing and accounts payable processes, including gathering quotes, entering requisitions, and processing purchase orders
• ·       Review and track invoices for accuracy, ensuring timely payment in accordance with the Township’s billing cycle
• ·       Collaborate with the Finance Department to ensure compliance with Township purchasing procedures
• ·       Prior experience is helpful, but training will be provided

Ideal Candidate:

The ideal candidate for this position will:

• ·       Have current or recent experience assisting with the oversight, instruction, or execution of programs/events
• ·       Have experience in facility operations including rentals, equipment set-up/breakdown, and event coordination
• ·       Be comfortable interpreting and enforcing rules/regulations in a public setting
• ·       Be a strong communicator with excellent interpersonal and written communication skills
• ·       Demonstrate creativity, initiative, and reliability – able to follow direction, take ownership of tasks, work independently with minimal oversight, and collaborate effectively as part of a team.
• ·       Exhibit maturity, teamwork, and sound judgment when navigating challenges and working through conflicts as part of a team.

Core Competencies:

• ·       Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills
• ·       Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities
• ·       Basic understanding of sports, recreation programs, and event planning – or a strong willingness to learn the rules, regulations, and operations of a wide range of activities
• ·       Demonstrated ability to lead and engage participants of all ages
• ·       Ability to handle conflict with professionalism, patience, and courtesy
• ·       Creative problem-solving and sound judgment in dynamic environments
• ·       Ability to work independently and meet deadlines

Minimum Requirements:

• Possession of a valid Driver’s License
• Possession of First Aid/CPR/AED certification (or ability to obtain upon hire)
• Ability to work flexible, extended, and irregular hours as required, given the nature of the position
• Strong customer service orientation and willingness to work directly with the public

Application Process:

Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit the following materials for consideration:

• Cover Letter
• Resume
• Three Professional References – include names, titles, and contact information

Send all materials to Julie Buonaguro, Director of Parks and Recreation, at jbuonaguro@scotchplainsnj.com

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.  This posting will remain open until filled; the Township reserves the right to extend an offer at any time during the recruitment process.

The Township of Scotch Plains is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).

MANAGER OF THE RECREATION DIVISION F/T

TOWNSHIP OF MAPLEWOOD

Under the direction of the Director of Community Services, responsible for the organization and supervision of a variety of recreational sports and activities; conducts planned activities with assigned groups, implements programs for all ages, and initiates projects and reports on their progress; does related work as required.  This position includes varying hours including early mornings, evenings, and weekends, as needed. A minimum of two (2) years experience planning, promoting, and developing recreation programs at a recreation facility or community center; or graduation from an accredited college or university with specialization in recreation or similar field required.  Valid NJ driver’s license required. Salary $65,000 - $78,000 DOQ with full health benefits and pension plan.  A full job description can be found on the Township website at www.maplewoodnj.gov. Maplewood reserves the right to review applications and conduct interviews as they are received. EOE. Email cover letter and resume to Melissa Mancuso, mmancuso@maplewoodnj.gov. 

DIRECTOR OF RECREATION

TOWN OF WESTFIELD, UNION COUNTY

The Town of Westfield is seeking an experienced and dynamic management professional for the full-time position of Director of Recreation. This role is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Recreation Department, including the Town’s aquatic facility, recreational programs, special events, and multiple capital improvement projects. The Director is responsible for supervising full-time, part-time, and seasonal staff; managing departmental budgets; and ensuring the successful delivery of high-quality programs and facilities for residents of all ages. Candidates should have experience in aquatic facility management, project management, staff leadership, and the planning and execution of department-wide programs and events. Candidates should be highly organized, detail-oriented, and skilled at managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. A bachelor’s degree in Recreation, Sport Management, or a related field is required, along with a minimum of five (5) years of progressive management and supervisory experience in recreation or parks. CPRP certification is preferred but not required. A full job description is available upon request. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience Salary range: $110,000-$130,000. The Town reserves the right to fill the position prior to the application deadline. To apply, submit cover letter and resume to James H. Gildea, Town Administrator, 425 East Broad Street, Westfield, New Jersey 07090 or to administrator@westfieldnj.gov no later than October 20, 2025. EOE. To view additional information regarding the Director of Recreation job opening, be sure to visit: Director of Recreation Department Information

ATHLETIC PROGRAM COORDINATOR

TOWNSHIP OF EDISON

Responsibilities include planning, organizing, and overseeing Township athletic programs and leagues, coordinating with independent sports organizations, and ensuring proper facility use and program delivery. This position manages equipment, registration, staff, and volunteers; assists with budgets and scheduling; and supports program promotion, requiring strong knowledge of recreation principles, organizational skills, and the ability to work evenings and weekends.

For a detailed job description and to apply, please visit the Township website using the link below:

https://www.primepoint.net/Recruitment/#/EDISON/index.html?job=1010097

RECREATION SUPERVISOR

TOWNSHIP OF RANDOLPH

Department:      Parks & Recreation

Posting Date:     September 19, 2025 until filled

Reports to: Asst. Parks & Recreation Director

Position Type:   Full-time, exempt

Hours/Week:  35

Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as needed

POSITION SUMMARY

Under direction, the Recreation Supervisor is responsible for supervising the planning, development, and implementation of recreation and leisure services and programs in the Township of Randolph. The Recreation Supervisor oversees personnel, manages and executes program operations, coordinates and promotes  community events, and ensures compliance with Township policies and public safety standards. Performs related duties as required.

EXAMPLES OF WORK (not all inclusive):

·        Supervises and coordinates the planning, scheduling, promotion, and execution of recreation programs year-round, leagues, and special events for youth, adults, seniors, summer camps, waterfront lake, and special populations.

·        Oversees the work of Program Coordinators, seasonal staff, volunteers, and contracted instructors.

·        Conducts regular evaluation of programs and services; makes recommendations for improvement based on participation, community feedback, and trends.

·        Develops and maintains collaborative partnerships with schools, non-profits, and other public/private organizations to enhance programming.

·        Coordinates the use and scheduling of recreational facilities, parks, athletic fields, and indoor venues.

·        Enforces department policies and safety procedures; ensures that staff adhere to applicable laws and regulations.

·        Participates in the recruitment, selection, training, and evaluation of program personnel, instructors, seasonal staff and others including feedback, performance evaluations and discipline as appropriate.

·        Assists with preparation and administration of the department or division budget; monitors expenditures and cost recovery strategies.

·        Prepares reports, program guides, grant applications, and marketing content to promote public awareness and engagement.

·        Investigates and responds to inquiries, suggestions, and complaints and feedback from the public and program participants.

·        Operates a computer and recreation management software to maintain program data and participant records.

·        Attends community meetings, public forums, and professional development events as a representative of the agency.

REQUIREMENTS

·        Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s degree in Recreation, Physical Education, Leisure Services, Public Administration, or a related field; may possess a National Recreation and Park Association Certified Parks and Recreation Professional certificate.

• ·        Minimum three (3) years of experience in recreation work involving the planning, promotion, and supervision of varied recreational activities.
• ·        Applicants who do not have the required education and/or experience can substitute any combination of related education, experience, certifications, and licenses that result in successfully performing the essential functions.

·        One (1) year of supervisory experience.

• ·        Valid NJ driver’s license.

·        Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as needed.

KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:

·        Knowledge of principles and practices of community recreation and leisure programming and the methods used to develop, plan, organize, evaluate, promote and supervisor a recreation program.

·        Ability to supervise, motivate, provide assignments and instructions, and evaluate subordinate staff and volunteers.

·        Ability to interpret and implement policies and procedures and establish and prepare reports and press releases.

·        Knowledge of budgeting, program planning, and facility scheduling.

·        Ability to prepare clear reports, program proposals, and promotional materials.

·        Knowledge of community demographics and trends in recreation services and ability to organize, develop and coordinate a recreation program and identify and evaluate community recreation needs.

·        Ability to establish and maintain cooperative and collaborative, effective working relationships with staff, officials, and the general public.

·        Knowledge of the Community Pass Registration program is preferred.

·        Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and ability to learn to utilize various type of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the department.

COMPENSATION

Salary up to $60,000/year commensurate with experience.

BENEFITS

Benefits for full time employees include NJ Division of Pensions & Benefits Public Employees Retirement System pension, health insurance, deferred compensation plans, life insurance and other supplemental insurances and paid time off. 

For further details regarding benefits and total compensation go to: www.randolphnj.org/DocumentCenter/View/1336/Randolph-benefits-flyer-new

CONTACT:

Interested and qualified candidates should submit a pre-employment application found on www.randolphnj.org,  resume and cover letter to seisenstein@randolphnj.org .

DIRECTOR OF AQUATICS & RECREATION ANNOUNCEMENT

ST. FRANCIS COMMUNITY CENTER

Click here for the details.

ICE ARENA GENERAL MANAGER

TOWNSHIP OF EAST BRUNSWICK

Click here for the details.

SUPERINTENDENT PARKS AND FORESTRY 1

STATE OF NEW JERSEY

Click here for the details.

MANAGER OF RECREATION & THERAPEUTIC RECREATION

SOMERSET COUNTY PARK COMMISSION

Click here for the details.

ASST. SUPERINTENDENT OF RECREATION

THE TOWNSHIP OF TEANECK

Click Here For The Details

LABORER - PARKS & PLAYGROUNDS (PART-TIME SEASONAL)

BOROUGH OF ORADELL

Under the direction of the Recreation Director or their designee, responsible for maintenance, repair and improvements to borough owned public recreation areas. Responsible for executing and completing job assignments issued by supervisor. Coordinates with the supervisor to obtain equipment, materials and supplies necessary to complete assignments. Ensures proper care and use of vehicles and equipment, site safety.

See full job description and employment application at www.oradell.org/recreation

Please submit application and resume to David Torres, Recreation Director, at dtorres@oradell.org