Summer 2026 Recreation Leader

The City of Urbandale is hiring creative and self-motivated Recreation Leaders to play a key role in supporting our Kids Kamp summer youth program. Reporting to the Recreation Department leadership team, you will assist with creating fun and engaging activities and events for children ages 6–11. Positions vary in responsibility from activity leadership to program coordination and staff supervision. Candidates will be hired into Recreation Leader I or Recreation Leader II level based on qualifications and experience.

This temporary summer position is open to candidates ages 16+ (Recreation Leader I) and 18+ (Recreation Leader II) who enjoy working with children and have a passion for recreation, youth engagement, and teamwork. The position runs from mid-June to mid-August 2026, with standard hours of Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and occasional variations based on program needs.

Starting Pay Rates

• Recreation Leader I = $15.75/hour
• Recreation Leader II = $18.25/hour

Routine Job Duties/Responsibilities

Recreation Leaders may perform some or all of the following duties depending on level and assignment:

Program & Activity Facilitation

-Implement, lead, and coordinate daily activities including games, crafts, field trips, special events, and guest presentations.

-Encourage positive participation and engagement among children ages 6–11.

-Adjust activities to meet participant and staff needs throughout the day.

-Clean and organize program areas and equipment.

Participant & Parent Communication

-Communicate daily with parents/guardians about schedules, participant updates, and program expectations.

-Provide constructive feedback regarding behavior, progress, or concerns.

Safety

-Maintain a safe and inclusive environment for all participants.

-Ensure safety protocols are followed on-site and during field trips.

-Provide CPR/First Aid as needed.

-Enforce program rules in a consistent and respectful manner.

Program Operations & Administration

-Maintain daily attendance and required participant documentation.

-Assist in planning, preparing, and executing program schedules and lesson plans.

-Interact with program participants and seek feedback to improve the program.

-Address public concerns or suggestions in a calm and professional manner.

Additional Responsibilities for Recreation Leader II

-Oversee lesson and program planning, including supply purchasing, budgeting, and inventory management.

-Supervise camp staff and ensure appropriate staff-to-camper ratios; assist with scheduling and evaluations.

-Conduct staff meetings and coordinate ongoing communication among team members.

-Serve as a liaison between camp staff and the Parks & Recreation Department.

-Complete reports on attendance, accidents, vandalism, and staff hours.

Typical Qualifications

Recreation Leader I

• Must be at least 16 years of age.
• Valid Driver’s License required.
• Strong communication skills and desire to work with children.
• Reliable, responsible, and self-motivated.
• Experience with youth, recreation, or customer service preferred but not required.

Recreation Leader II

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Valid Driver’s License required.
• High School Diploma or GED and at least one year of post-secondary education.
• Prior experience working with children or in recreation or a related field preferred.
• Experience or interest in leading staff, planning programs, or overseeing operations is beneficial.

Supplemental Information

There are multiple openings available for the 2026 season. This opportunity will be posted until filled.

For more information, please contact Chris Barkema at the Urbandale Parks and Recreation Department at (515) 331-6783 or cbarkema@urbandale.org. 

Post-offer/pre-employment reference checks, background/motor vehicle report check, and drug screening are required. 

Candidates will receive notifications via email from www.governmentjobs.com (NEOGOV). Please apply using an active email address that you check often and consider enabling text alerts to stay informed.

The City of Urbandale is an Equal Opportunity Employer. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact the Human Resources Department at hr@urbandale.org or (515) 331-6738 prior to the application deadline.