Program Coordinator

The City of Kirkland's Parks & Community Services Department is seeking to hire a Program Coordinator!

Why Kirkland?

• Plans, develops, organizes and implements year round and seasonal park and recreation programs, facilities and services.
• Hires, trains, evaluates and disciplines various part-time contingent staff and volunteer staff as well as contracted staff (e.g. instructors, officials, referees, service providers, etc.). Recognize and motivate staff/volunteers and nominate for service or achievement awards.
• Ensures safe, quality and efficient programs, facilities and services by ensuring compliance with industry standards and providing visibility during peak service periods.
• Provides proactive communication with customers about programs, facilities and services and ensures timely resolution of customer issues.
• Assists with the development, implementation and monitoring of program budgets; carrying out budgeted expenditure, revenue plans and grant, award and scholarship program.
• Follows policies, procedures and relevant national, state and local laws and standard of care guidelines.

• Assists in the development, recommendation and implementation of goals, objectives, policies, procedures and work standards for assigned areas.
• Researches and develops new programs and services to meet community needs and program area objectives. Listens to feedback regarding current offerings and make corrections where needed to ensure quality, safety and customer service.
• Monitors the day-to-day operations of programs, facilities and services including making site visits, handling and resolving complaints, and ensuring that the required materials and supplies are available.
• Facilitates the recruitment, hiring and training of staff and volunteers needed to operate successfully and safely.
• Directs the work of full-time, contingent and instructional staff in area assigned in the absence of the supervisor.
• Assures there is on-call, evening, weekend and emergency coverage for park and recreation programs, facilities and services.
• Assures appropriate coordination of implementation and set-up logistics to pertinent staff to facilitate successful participation in service offerings.
• Provides support to City advisory boards, councils and commissions as assigned. Includes production of oral and written reports, facilitates grants and grant awards.
• Provides direct leadership, subject matter expertise and uses technology knowledge and skills to implement programs.
• Negotiates fees and drafts agreements with concessionaires/vendors/contractors to carryout the offering of services to the community.
• Prepares revenue and expense reports and estimates.
• Ensures adequate inventories of equipment and supplies are maintained for programs, facilities and services.
• Develops comprehensive and effective promotional and public relations materials, including flyers, presentations, brochures, website updates, emails, letters and memos. Proactively communicates with customers about permits, rules, regulations, logistics and preparations to facilitate participation in programs, facilities and services.
• Enters program and facility information in the recreation software to deliver these services to the community, making sure to follow established department standards and effective communication with customers.
• Collaborates and maintains strong relationship with other city departments and outside agencies for area needs as required.
• Assists office staff with customer service, including conducting customer transactions, taking and reconciling payments, record keeping and reporting.
• Carryout technical functions and maintain specialty certifications related to specific area operations under assignment.

• Works with other City staff to complete City related events and programs.
• May work on regional projects as assigned.
• Participates in division and department-wide strategic planning, training and meetings.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the PCS management team.
• Works evening and weekend shifts necessary to provide for the effective oversight of facilities, programs and services.

• Thorough knowledge of specified program/area content and industry standards for park and recreation programs, facilities and services.
• Computer proficiency including recreation software; volunteer, GIS, and asset management software; and the Microsoft Office suite.
• High degree of group and interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with diverse populations of the public.
• Ability to make presentations, facilitate processes, provide effective training, generate enthusiasm, and implement programs.
• Ability to work independently and as a member of a team.
• Consistent exercise of discretion and independent judgment.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Demonstrate excellent customer service practices.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor's Degree in Recreation Management, Business Administration, Environmental Studies or related field
• Experience: 3 years of progressively responsible work experience in the specified area of parks and recreation including 2 years in a lead capacity
• Or: In place of the above requirements, the incumbent may possess any combination of relevant education and experience which would demonstrate the individual's knowledge, skill, and ability to proficiently perform the essential duties and responsibilities listed above.

• Must possess a valid Washington State driver's license.
• Must successfully complete a thorough background check as required by the Child/Adult Abuse Information Act.
• Depending upon area of operation: certification in American Red Cross First Aid, CPR, AED, Water Safety Instructor Trainer, and Lifeguard Instructor Trainer, and National Recreation & Park Association Aquatic Facility Operator is preferred.

Physical Demands and Working Environment:

• Work is performed in a variety of settings and conditions both in a typical office setting as well as field situations. May be outdoors and in various weather conditions.
• May involve working in the water, gym, other fitness environments, forested park land, wetlands or other natural areas.
• Frequently required to visit program, activity, and recreation sites for monitoring purposes.
• Must be able to move objects up to 50 pounds.

Selection Process

Position requires a resume and cover letter for consideration of application. Please note how you meet minimum qualifications within the cover letter. Applicants who are selected for next steps in the hiring process will be invited by phone or e-mail. Candidates are encouraged to apply at the earliest possible date as screening, interviewing, and hiring decisions will be made through the recruitment period, until such time as the vacancy is filled. This posting will be closed on August 25th, 2025 with first interviews beginning the week of September 1st, 2025.

The City of Kirkland is a welcoming community where every person can thrive and grow. We value diversity, inclusion, belonging, and work together to support our community. We do this by solving problems, focusing on the customer, and respecting all people who come into the City whether to visit, live, or work. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we are committed to creating a workforce that does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, age, color, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, marital status, genetic information, veteran status, disability, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law. We encourage qualified applicants of all backgrounds and identities to apply to our job postings. Persons with a disability who need reasonable accommodations in the application or testing process, or those needing this announcement in an alternative format, may call 425-587-3210 or Telecommunications Device for the Deaf 711.