Recreation Specialist
New Braunfels, TX, USA
Department:
Das RecFLSA Status:
NonexemptHiring Salary:
$17.56 - $21.07
Welcome, ‘ist das Leben schön!’ (Life is good!) At the City of New Braunfels, we seek out people ready to serve the community, plan for the future, and preserve our well-renowned natural beauty. Our five Core Values serve as a cornerstone of our work: Integrity, Service, Visionary Leadership, Stewardship of Resources, and Cultural Heritage. Do our values speak to you?
The New Braunfels Parks and Recreation Department invites you to take part in helping deliver fun, fitness, and smiles to the community of New Braunfels by joining the Das Rec family. At over 77,000 square feet, Das Rec consists of two full-sized basketball courts, two indoor pools, a fitness floor, an indoor track, and more - the opportunities to help build a happier, healthier, active New Braunfels are endless.
Recreation Specialists exist across multiple divisions in Das Rec. This listing describes the responsibilities specific to the Aquatics Division.
What we’re looking for: Under general supervision, the Aquatics Recreation Specialist assists in coordinating aquatic programs, birthday parties, and operational services to ensure high-quality service, safety, and satisfaction for all patrons and staff at DAS REC, New Braunfels Recreation Center.
Benefits & Total Rewards:
Our City team members are our most valuable asset! We offer Total Rewards when you join our team.
- 2:1 match on retirement contribution
- Vacation and Sick Leave accruals start at date of hire
- Get paid to stay – longevity pay on top of your regular pay after one full year
- Bilingual pay offered
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Employee Assistance Program
- Fitness Center Discounts
- Keep learning – professional and personal development training available
The responsibilities you’ll be trusted with:
The following duties ARE NOT intended to serve as a comprehensive list of all duties performed by all employees in this classification, only a representative summary of the primary duties and responsibilities. Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed and may be required to perform additional, position-specific duties.
- Model the way with a positive attitude toward the organization and co-workers, ensuring actions, appearance, attitude, and attendance serve as a positive example for DAS REC.
- Assist in maintaining DAS REC to ensure a safe condition and to meet community needs in compliance with the City’s policies, procedures, mission, and vision.
- Remain calm under pressure and help resolve conflicts.
- Contribute to a high level of standards for divisional staff and hold self and others accountable to expectations.
- Contribute to hiring, training, orientation, performance evaluations, and documentation for assigned staff.
- Commit to continuous improvement through regular meetings with the Aquatics leadership team.
- Take initiative and work independently and collaboratively with individuals from various backgrounds.
- Manage administrative tasks such as scheduling, reporting, and supply management.
- May work non-standard hours including evenings, weekends, holidays, and emergency response.
- Understand and follow safety protocols and emergency procedures.
- Respond quickly and effectively in emergency situations and support corrective actions as needed.
- Serve as a liaison between lifeguard staff and aquatics leadership to ensure communication and operational continuity.
Aquatic Division Additional Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
- Assist with the planning and delivery of all aquatic programs and events, including swim meets and lifeguard orientations.
- Confirm birthday party reservations via calls and emails; provide event details and support documents.
- Schedule and support pool party staff and update reservations using DigiQuatics.
- Train and onboard Pool Party Attendants, including supervising their readiness for parties.
- Set up, tear down, and clean party areas including decorations and supplies.
- Maintain themed party box inventory using "party supplies" inventory file.
- Print and manage party receipts and checklist documentation.
- Conduct and record pool chemical tests (DPD #1, DPD #2, and pH indicators) and perform safety inspections of equipment.
- Monitor and maintain first aid and aquatic area supply inventory.
- Participate in weekly planning meetings with Aquatics Supervisor and Assistant Supervisor.
- Serve as Supervisor on Duty during swim meets when necessary.
- Assist in supervising swim lesson programs and support registration and coaching staff.
- Support facility cleanliness and safety checks during aquatic programs and events.
- Assist in promoting aquatics programs and special events in coordination with the department.
- Be willing to step into shifts or leadership roles on short notice when operational needs arise.
Your areas of knowledge and expertise that matter most for this role:
Education and Experience:
- High school diploma or GED equivalent.
- At least one (1) year of aquatic programming experience.
- Two (2) years of Lifeguarding experience.
Required Licenses or Certifications:
- Valid Texas Driver’s License.
- Must obtain within three (3) months of employment:
- American Red Cross Lifeguard/First Aid Certification
- Community First Aid and Safety/CPR/AED certification
- Preferred:
- American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor (WSI) Certification
- American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor (LGI) Certification
- Administering Emergency Oxygen certification
Required Knowledge of:
- Principles and practices of excellent customer service
- Federal and State safety laws and regulations
- Aquatic operations, programming, and facility supervision
- Emergency response procedures and aquatic safety best practices
Required Skill in:
- Interpreting customer and facility needs and solving service-related issues
- Communicating clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing
- Establishing positive relationships with guests, coworkers, and supervisors
- Managing aquatic party logistics, lifeguard team dynamics, and event operations
- Using computer software and scheduling tools such as DigiQuatics
- Conducting chemical testing and ensuring aquatic safety compliance
- Analyzing operational issues and identifying safe, effective solutions
Your work environment:
- Work is performed primarily indoors with exposure to humid and chemical-rich environments
- May require standing, bending, lifting up to fifty (50) pounds
- Must be able to work irregular hours including evenings, weekends, and holidays
- May be required to work during emergencies or disasters
- Designated as a safety and/or security-sensitive position
The City of New Braunfels is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, military status, order of protection status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state, or local law.