Assistant Recreation Center Manager - Recreation Center

Recreation Center Assistant

Under the general supervision of the Recreation Center Manager, this position assists in overseeing the daily operations of the Recreation Center. Responsibilities include ensuring the facility remains clean, organized, and safe; managing opening and closing procedures; monitoring equipment and supply usage; and reporting maintenance needs. This role requires proficiency with various software platforms to support center operations, including systems for accounting, payroll, staff timekeeping, training, and recreation management. In the absence of the Recreation Center Manager, this position assumes leadership responsibilities and plays a key role in facility oversight, program coordination, and operational problem-solving.

This position exercises supervision over full time staff, part time staff, volunteers, and program instructors.

Oversee daily facility operations, including opening/closing procedures, inspections, and equipment readiness. Ensure cleanliness, maintenance, and safe operation of all recreation areas, fitness equipment, and common spaces.

Assist with hiring, training, mentoring, scheduling, and supervising part time staff. Provide daily direction to front desk staff, program instructors, and other personnel. Conduct performance feedback, coach staff on customer service and safety procedures, and help maintain a positive work environment. Fill in on shifts when needed to ensure smooth operations.

Provide excellent customer service to members, patrons, and guests; assist with registrations and facility usage questions. Handle customer conflicts and complaints professionally and effectively. Promote programs, special events, and facility offerings through positive engagement and communication. Build strong relationships with community partners, user groups, and participants.

Assist in planning, organizing, and supervising recreational programs, classes, leagues, and special events. Support instructors with scheduling, set ups, and logistics. Monitor program attendance, quality, and customer satisfaction. Help develop and implement new programs.

Assist in preparing reports, tracking attendance, monitoring usage trends, and maintaining accurate records. Help process registrations, deposits, and daily cash handling in compliance with financial procedures. Support budgeting and purchasing by gathering supply needs and monitoring inventory. Ensure compliance with organizational policies, department, and state/local regulations.

Serve as acting manager when the Recreation Center Manager is away. Make operational decisions, ensure adequate staffing, and resolve issues to maintain consistent service and safety standards.

Operate a personal or City vehicle to visit other work locations, attend meetings, and events.

Perform other job-related duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Knowledge of:

Principles and practices of recreation programming and facility management.

Safety procedures, risk management, and emergency response protocols.

Customer service standards and conflict resolution techniques.

Basic budgeting, inventory management, and administrative practices.

Supervisory principles, including staff training and performance evaluation.

Fitness, sports, youth programs, or community recreation (depending on setting).

Scheduling software, membership management systems, and common office applications.

Facility equipment operation (gym equipment, sports equipment, audio/visual systems, etc.).

Local community needs, trends in recreation, and inclusive program design.

Skill to:

Operate with strong leadership, team-building, and interpersonal communications.

Effectively problem-solve and manage conflict-resolution.

Organize, plan, and coordinate multiple activities and programs.

Supervise full-time staff, part-time staff, volunteers, and program instructors.

Utilize scheduling software, point-of-sale systems, and standard office applications.

Demonstrate strong customer service skills while maintaining positive, respectful engagement with all individual diversities.

Develop and maintain accurate records, reports, and schedules.

Respond as needed in critical situations that may require basic first aid and/or emergency procedures.

Ability to:

Work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, and adapt to changing needs.

Enforce policies and procedures while maintaining a friendly, professional atmosphere.

Train, motivate, and evaluate staff performance.

Maintain a safe, clean, and organized facility.

Communicate clearly and professionally with patrons, staff, and community partners.

Resolve conflicts and respond to emergencies calmly and effectively.

Lift and move equipment, set up program spaces, and perform moderate physical tasks.

Ability to contribute to creating inclusive, accessible, and engaging recreation programs.

Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the course of work, both internally and externally.

Follow and embrace the City of Abilene Core Values Respect, Integrity, Service Above Self, and Excellence in All We Do.

Lead, manage, and perform as a team member in a manner that accomplishes the Division's mission and treats team members with dignity, courtesy, and respect.

Experience and Training Guidelines:

For positions with more than one level, all listed requirements at the lower levels are required at the higher levels. Any combination equivalent to experience and training to provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be qualifying. Knowledge, skills, and abilities may be obtained through:

Experience: One to three years of experience working in recreation, fitness, sports management, community programs, parks & recreation, or a related field required.

Education/Training: High school diploma or GED is required. A bachelor's degree with major coursework in recreation administration, physical education, leisure activity, or a related field is preferred.

License or Certificate: A Texas driver's license, the ability to obtain one within ninety (90) days of employment, or a military waiver is required.

Special Requirements:

Essential duties require the following physical skills and work environment:

Medium lifting no more than 50 pounds; carrying up to 25 pounds

Physical Demand Codes: The following describes whether the position is expected to exert the physical demands listed during a typical workday as well as the overall frequency of the task:

Codes for how often: N = No; E = Extensive (100 70% of the time); M = Moderate (60 30% of the time); I = Infrequent (20 10% of the time); A = Almost Never (<10% of the time)

Code / Task

M Standing

M Sitting

M Walking

I Lifting

I Carrying

I Pushing/Pulling

I Overhead Work

M Fine Dexterity

I Kneeling

I Crouching

I Crawling

I Bending

I Twisting

I Climbing

M Balancing

E Vision

E Hearing

E Talking

___ Other: _____________________