Summer 2026 Recreation Leader

Urbandale, IA - USA

Monthly Salary: Not Disclosed

Posted on: Yesterday

Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

Summary Description

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 611. 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 MondayFriday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and occasional variations based on program needs.

Starting Pay Rates

Recreation Leader I $15.50/hour
Recreation Leader II $17.50/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 611.
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 Drivers 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 Drivers 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 or .

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

Candidates will receive notifications via email from (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 reasonable accommodation is needed please contact the Human Resources Department at or prior to the application deadline.

Summary DescriptionThe 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 child...