Recreation Leader II/III - Adaptive
PART-TIME RECREATION LEADER II/III
Recreation Division – Adaptive Program & Recreation Office
Program hours are typically Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from approximately 12:00 p.m. to 5:15 p.m., with additional evening and weekend hours available as needed.
Level II - $17.65/hour - Level III - $18.77 – $22.10/hour
The City of Gilroy is an equal opportunity employer and supports workforce diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. Join our team!
ABOUT THE POSITION
Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of others? The City of Gilroy is looking for energetic and caring individuals to join our team as part-time Recreation Leaders II/III in our Adaptive Program and supporting the recreation office. This is more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to be part of a community that values inclusion, connection, and personal growth.
At the heart of Gilroy’s Recreation Division is a commitment to creating meaningful programs that bring people together through parks, events, and shared experiences. As a Recreation Leader, you’ll help us deliver high-quality recreational, social, and cultural activities that reflect the spirit of our community.
In this role, you’ll work under the guidance of a Recreation Supervisor to assist in planning and leading engaging activities for participants with special needs. The Adaptive Program serves individuals with a wide range of disabilities, from limited motor skills to non-verbal communication to more complex developmental challenges such as severe autism. You’ll be part of a supportive team that fosters confidence, connection, and joy—one activity at a time. In addition, you’ll be assisting members of the public in the Recreation Office. You’ll be processing class registration, facility reservation, and answering questions about recreation related programs and City services.
While your main assignment will be in the Adaptive Program and supporting the Recreation Office, you may also be called upon to support other areas within the Recreation Division, giving you a well-rounded experience in community recreation. As you gain experience and receive positive performance evaluations, you may have the opportunity to advance from Recreation Leader II to Recreation Leader III, taking on new challenges and leadership responsibilities.
THE TEAM AND THE WORK
The Recreation Division is easy-going, supportive, and passionate about our work. We practice what we preach and are versatile and able to support any recreation related program at any given moment. We work collaboratively with the community to provide positive alternative programs to support and enhance the quality of life for all members of the community.
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE WILL
- Have experience working with a special needs population.
- Demonstrate emotional intelligence and remain calm in tense situations.
- Be energetic and bring enthusiasm to assigned program every day.
- Have experience leading activities, sports games or arts and crafts.
- Be able to communicate in both English and Spanish.
- Have great communication and interpersonal skills while interacting with the public.
- Be reliable and punctual and have ability to independently manage time.
- Be responsible to open, prepare, and close facilities on time and ensure the facility is safely used by participants.
- Have strong computer skills (using email, timesheet software, comfortable using internet browsers).
- Comfortable working in an office setting.
KEY RESPONSIBLITIES
- Plan, lead, and assist with a variety of recreation programs and activities that serve all age groups—children, teens, adults, and seniors.
- Ensure program areas are clean, safe, and equipment is used properly.
- Attend staff meetings and participate in training sessions.
- Provide administrative and clerical support related to program operations.
- Administer basic first aid when needed.
- Operate a City vehicle as assigned.
- Processing program registrations and facility reservations.
- Support additional program needs, including:
- Issuing and collecting equipment
- Setting up and breaking down for activities
- Leading basic instruction in arts, crafts, sports, and recreation
- Recording participation and attendance
QUALIFICATIONS
Recreation Leader II
- Sixteen (16) years of age or older at date of hire.
- One year of paid experience working in a recreation program-type setting.
- Experience supervising children, teens, adults, and/or seniors preferred.
- Experience communicating with parents and the general public preferred.
Recreation Leader III
- High School diploma or equivalent.
- Two years of paid experience working in a recreation program-type setting.
- Must have experience supervising children, teens, adults, and/or seniors.
- Must have experience communicating with parents and the general public.
Recreations Leaders (All Levels):
- Valid tuberculosis (TB) Certificate
- May be required to possess and maintain a valid California Driver License along with a safe driving record necessary to operate assigned vehicles (s).
- Possess (within 12 months of hire) and maintain a valid First Aid and CPR/AED certification.
- Pass a pre-employment drug test.
- Pass an employment background check including a Department of Justice criminal record check.
- Prefer non-tobacco user.
- Bilingual (English/ Spanish) a plus.
APPLICATION PROCESS
If you are interested in pursuing this exciting career opportunity, please attach and submit the following required items with your NEOGOV application:
- A completed City of Gilroy online application including supplemental responses.
- A detailed cover letter expressing your interest in the position with the City of Gilroy is preferred.
- A detailed resume that highlights your related skills and experience is preferred.
City Application Form – Candidates must complete the NEOGOV City of Gilroy application form for this position and submit online. Please prepare attachments prior to completion of the NEOGOV application as incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Apply Online: Go to https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/cityofgilroy. You can apply online by clicking on the job title you are interested in and clicking on the "Apply" link. After viewing the Job Description, click the 'Apply' tab. If this is the first time you are applying using our online job application, you will need to create an account and select a Username and Password. After your account has been established, you can import your resume from LinkedIn, upload it from a saved document on your computer, or manually enter your personal information. This application will be saved and used to apply for future job openings.
Recruitment Schedule – Key Dates*
- Open until Filled
- Priority Screening: Week of September 2, 2025
- First Round Oral Board: September 18, 2025
(*Note: The examination process/schedule may be changed as needed by the City.)
Only complete application packets will be reviewed. Only the most qualified applicants with the most relevant experience and education will be invited to continue in the selection process. In addition, final candidates for the position are required to pass an employment background check, State of California Department of Justice criminal records check, medical evaluation, and drug screen, given at the City's expense, prior to appointment. If special accommodations are necessary at any stage of the selection process, please contact the Human Resources Department right away 408-846-0228.
Attention: Communication regarding your status in this recruitment process will be conducted via e-mail. Be sure to include an e-mail address on the employment application. Applicants are responsible for notifying Human Resources of any changes to an e-mail address and/or other contact information.
THE CITY OF GILROY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER AND SUPPORTS WORKFORCE DIVERSITY.