DPR Teen After-School Program Assistant Directors

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Arlington County requires all applicants to thoroughly complete each section of the application, including prior job responsibilities, duties, and supplemental questions. While you may attach a resume, it will not replace a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Are you ready to be a leader in our dynamic youth and teen programs that change lives, spark creativity, and build the next generation of leaders? The Department of Parks & Recreation (DPR) is seeking passionate and energetic individuals for temporary Teen After School Program Assistant Directors who are passionate about recreation, education, and equity. This is a hands-on, heart-forward leadership role where you’ll design and lead programs that engage young people beyond the school bell.

About the Teen After School Programs

Our Teen After School Programs are a launchpad for personal growth, community engagement, and lifelong memories. Designed for middle and high school students, these programs offer a variety of activities, including: creative arts, sports & games, academic support, service learning, mentorship, and social connections. 

As a Teen After School Program staff member, you'll be a consistent and impactful presence, helping to create a physically and emotionally safe space where teens can explore their interests, develop new skills, and grow into confident, responsible individuals.

• Make a Difference: Play a pivotal role in shaping the lives of Arlington's youth.
• Be Part of a Team: Work alongside dedicated professionals who share your passion for youth development.
• Develop Skills: Gain valuable experience in program planning, leadership, and community engagement.
• Have Fun: Enjoy a vibrant and dynamic work environment where every day brings new challenges and rewards.

Major Job Duties: 

• Assisting with the supervision of daily program operations by supporting a team of 3-6 staff members, ensuring effective program delivery, participant engagement, and adherence to program objectives;
• Collaborating with the Program Director to plan and facilitate staff meetings, support employee evaluations, and promote staff development and program excellence;
• Assisting with the development of program calendars, activity schedules, and staff assignments to ensure diverse, engaging, and well-coordinated programming;
• Maintaining a visible presence during program operations by leading activities, supporting staff, monitoring participant behavior, and ensuring compliance with safety procedures and program standards;
• Modeling and reinforcing positive behavior management practices and Arlington CARES customer service principles while providing coaching and support to staff;
• Managing participant attendance, registration, evaluations, and other program records to support accurate reporting and program administration;
• Assisting with monitoring program budgets, tracking expenditures, and supporting outreach and engagement activities, including school and community events;
• Maintaining a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment that supports participants' social and emotional development and celebrates individual differences;
• Providing exemplary customer service to participants, families, and guardians while planning, leading, and facilitating recreational and enrichment activities with minimal supervision;
• Supporting individuals with disabilities, including providing personal care assistance as needed, completing participant and program evaluations, and performing other duties as assigned to support program operations and departmental priorities.

Successful candidates will be able to collaborate and communicate with others. Additionally, they will have the ability to complete tasks, take initiative, and work successfully in a team environment.

Minimum Qualifications: 

• High School Diploma/GED or equivalent; and
• Some experience administering recreation programs.

Desirable Qualifications: Preference may be given to applicants with experience in one or more of the following:

• Working in youth recreation programs in a leadership role;
• Planning and leading recreational activities;
• Willingness and/or experience working with individuals with disabilities; 
• Working with diverse populations; and/or
• Evaluating and coaching staff.

Special Requirements

Background Check: A pre-employment criminal records check will be conducted. It will include checks of the following: criminal record, driving record, education, professional licensure, and credit history. You will be required to sign a release authorizing the County to obtain your background information.

Driver's License: Applicant must possess, or obtain by time of appointment, a valid driver’s license, and must provide or authorize Arlington County to obtain a copy of official driving record. Any offer of employment may be contingent upon favorable review of the applicant’s driving record. Alternatively, the applicant must have the ability and willingness to use alternative methods of transportation to perform assigned duties and responsibilities at locations other than the primary worksite.

Professional License/Certifications: First Aid/CPR/AED Certifications may be required by the first day of the program.

Please complete each section of the application including the supplemental questions. Your responses to the supplemental questions are required because they provide us with specific information necessary to evaluate your qualifications for this position. These responses are considered part of the selection process. A resume may be attached; however, it will not substitute for a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please do not write "see resume" as a response to the questions.

Additional Information

Work Hours: Program hours are 2:00-6:00 p.m. or 2:00-7:00 p.m. Monday-Friday from September-June. Staff hours are 26-30 hours per week depending on program location, Additional hours may be available with morning DPR pre-school programs and with Youth, Teen, and Family programs on Arlington Public Schools’ early release days, school break days, evenings and weekends. Additional background checks and paperwork are required for staff interested in working with licensed pre-school programs.

The official title of this position is: Recreation Assistant III

The pay range listed above is effective July 1, 2026.

Arlington County is committed to advancing diversity, equity, access, and inclusion across all our services, activities, and programs. Learn more about our commitment.

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