JOB SUMMARY

Under general supervision, plans, develops, organizes, supervises and evaluates department communication, community programming, community wellness initiatives, special events and fitness classes; develops and implements communication and marketing efforts for major City programs, services and events. Acts as a contact between the City, community groups and the public; coordinates events, performs other promotional duties involving frequent and responsive public outreach. Assures programs meet community needs and are delivered effectively, safely, and within budget.

MAJOR DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Plans, organizes, develops and oversees Community Events that blends music, performing arts, community art, cultural celebrations, artisanal and farming vendors, and food trucks.
• Initiates and organizes projects related to community and special events. Analyzes issues, formulates solutions, and makes recommendations. As appropriate, develops budget guidelines, works with special event applicants and inter-department staff to develop budget guidelines and/or solicit event Plans and manages the operations of City Recreation programs; plans, develops, schedules, and supervises recreation programs, fitness activities, community outreach, and special community events.
• Provides leadership, direction, and guidance to assure that Recreation programs are delivered in a safe environment and within budget limits; assures Recreation activities meet community needs and are in compliance with all laws, policies, regulations, goals, and safety standards.
• Plans, organizes, promotes, and evaluates special events, community activities, and recreation programs; evaluates Recreation programs for effectiveness and participation levels; develops priorities and recommends new programs and program changes; tracks services provided, monitors results, and generates operational reports.
• Assists with scheduling fitness events, recreational facilities, and City venues for activities and events; manages fitness programs, contracts and fees; checks that facilities are maintained in clean and safe condition.
• Develops and maintains event calendars and promotional materials; coordinates and promotes program activities with general public, community resource agencies, and other local organizations.
• Establishes and maintains favorable relations with community leaders, information sources and departments of the Identifies or promotes issues or events affecting Decatur residents.
• Recruits participants, performers, fitness instructors, and volunteers; manages service contracts; orders supplies as needed.
• Organizes, schedules, coordinates and monitors day-to-day and overall promotional activities, special programs and special events. Will be required to travel to event sites for on-site coordination, set-up and and/or breakdown of events after hours and on weekends.
• Plans and develops special projects, programs, and events to meet the needs of participants; responds to requests for information; provides assistance to the public within scope of authority. Provides ongoing problem solving and resolution assistance to residents, customers, Council members, and all levels of City staff.
• Evaluates events effectiveness, coordinates debriefing meetings and incorporates changes where appropriate.
• Develops and delivers presentations before the community, business, services organizations and the media; coordinates City staff participation in related events. Prepares public displays and represents the City at community events.
• Maintains accounting and administrative records, tracks revenue, and monitors expenditures and budgets; prepares operational and statistical reports on recreation programs and special events.
• Assists in performing various general office duties to include assisting with class and program registration, preparing meeting packets, and responding to various Supports the relationship between the City of Decatur and the constituent population by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with clients, visitors, and City staff; promotes City goals and priorities in compliance with all policies and procedures.
• Maintains and enforces confidentiality of work-related issues, client records, and City information; monitors staff compliance to security procedures and privacy laws, policies, and guidelines; performs related duties as required or assigned.
• Organizes local wellness events, fitness initiatives, fitness classes and outdoor recreation events.
• Works with the City to promote Cultural Recreation initiatives.
• Performs all other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED BY THE POSITION

• Knowledge of and experience in recreation and leisure services.
• Knowledgeable in the principles and practices of municipal recreation program planning, implementation, and evaluation.
• Knowledgeable of the current trends in community recreation, sports leagues, cultural programs, and special events.
• Knowledgeable of age-appropriate fitness and activities programming for children, teens, adults, and seniors.
• Understanding of ADA compliance and inclusive recreation practices.
• Knowledge of facility scheduling, space utilization, and risk management for community events.
• Knowledgeable in the fundamentals of exercise science, human anatomy, and physiology.
• Knowledge of fitness assessment techniques and ability to interpret results.
• Knowledge of principles of group fitness class design, personal training, and wellness coaching.
• Knowledge of safety protocols for fitness equipment and group exercise environments.
• Knowledge of nutrition basics and health promotion strategies.
• Knowledge of current fitness industry standards as demonstrated through possession of certification(s) (e.g., ACE, NASM, ACSM).
• Knowledgeable of basic first aid, CPR, and emergency response procedures for sports and recreational environments.
• Knowledge of event planning and coordination for recreational, athletic, and community events.
• Knowledge of budgeting and cost control for programs and events.
• Knowledge of effective and modern marketing and promotion of programs.
• Knowledge of customer service principles for diverse populations.
• Knowledge of municipal policies and compliance regarding public recreation programs.
• Knowledge of risk management, safety standards, and incident reporting.
• Basic understanding of first aid and CPR (certifications preferred).
• Knowledge of technology systems used in recreation management (facility scheduling software, membership management systems).
• Understanding of liability and insurance as related to public programs and events.
• Knowledge of public health regulations related to fitness centers, pools, and large events.
• Knowledge of budget management principles.
• Knowledge of management and supervisory principles and practices.
• Skill in planning, organizing, analyzing, decision making, and problem solving.
• Skill in the use of office equipment, including a computer and relevant software.
• Skill in public relations.
• Skill in interpersonal relations.
• Skill in oral and written communication.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

The department director assigns work in terms of general instructions, sets performance goals and objectives, and assesses overall performance.

GUIDELINES

Guidelines include department policies and procedures, federal and state laws, case law, accreditation standards, HR policies and procedures, and other city policies and procedures.  These guidelines require judgment, selection, and interpretation in application. 

COMPLEXITY/SCOPE OF WORK

• The work consists of varied and complex administrative, managerial, supervisory, and programming logistics. Requires a high degree of customer service and interpersonal skills, as well as creative and strategic thinking.

CONTACTS                                  

• Contacts are typically with coworkers, other city personnel, contractors, and the general public.
• Contacts are typically to give or exchange information, resolve problems, and provide services.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Frequent Mobility-Standing, walking, bending, stooping, and lifting for extended periods during events and fitness programs.
• Lifting & Carrying-Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. occasionally for setting up tables, chairs, sports equipment, or event supplies.
• Equipment Setup-Moving and assembling fitness or recreational equipment as needed.
• Demonstration of Fitness Activities-May involve demonstrating proper exercise techniques or instructing classes.
• Visual & Hearing Acuity-Necessary for monitoring facility activities, reading schedules, and communicating effectively in noisy environments.

SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY

May supervise part-time staff, instructors, and volunteers, requiring skills in training, scheduling, and performance oversight to ensure safe and effective program delivery.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in related field (i.e. Recreation, Recreation Management, Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Sports Management, Public Administration, Business, etc.) preferred.
• Current fitness industry standards and certifications (e.g., ACE, NASM, ACSM).
• Must possess and maintain current CPR/First Aid training and certification(s).
• Five (5) or more years related work experience in recreation, event organization, and marketing; or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties listed above.
• Must possess valid driver’s license and be able to reliably commute to City facilities.
• Must be proficient in the English language, both spoken and written.

About The City of Decatur

Known as “The City of Opportunity,” Decatur is a vibrant and welcoming community with much to offer residents, visitors, and the many businesses and industries that call it home. A strong and diverse economy, excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and active community organizations make Decatur a great place to live, work, and play. What truly sets our city apart is the Southern hospitality and giving spirit found in the hearts of our residents: it’s why so many people choose to make Decatur their home and why visitors return year after year. As an employer, the City of Decatur offers diverse career opportunities, competitive compensation, and a supportive environment that values professionalism, teamwork, and public service. The City of Decatur employs several hundred full-time and part-time team members who take pride in serving the community through public safety, parks and recreation, environmental services, administrative support, and technical operations. We’re committed to creating a workplace that values fairness, inclusivity, professional growth, and safety: a place where employees can build meaningful careers while making a difference. The City of Decatur is an equal ...opportunity employer, dedicated to fostering a diverse workforce and providing employment opportunities to all, regardless of race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.

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