Recreation Specialist

Job Responsibilities

If your goal is to build a career that makes a difference and you have a passion for making a difference in the lives of South Carolina's youth, consider joining the dedicated people of the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ).

MISSION:

It is the mission of the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) to impact and transform young lives, strengthen families, and support safer communities through targeted prevention and rehabilitation.

JOB PURPOSE:

The Activity Coordinator at SCDJJ will incorporate and supervise a diverse range of activities and programs with the intention of improving certain physical, cognitive, emotional and social behaviors of the youth assigned to SCDJJ.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

Ensures compliance with the South Carolina Children's Code by providing youth with daily opportunities for large muscle exercise and outdoor recreation, tailored to their age and physical condition.

Facilitates recreational sessions that actively engage youth and promote full participation, inclusion, and group cohesion.

Collaborates with Facility Program Coordinators (PCs), Volunteer Services, and other agency staff to plan and implement facility-wide recreational events that enhance youth engagement, fosters unity among staff and youth and incorporate community or volunteer participation.

Monitors and maintains recreation equipment, supplies, and designated spaces to ensure safety and proper use.

Maintains awareness of youth behavior and individual needs by collaborating regularly with Youth Engagement Specialists (YES), Facility Program Coordinators (PC), and Facility Program Manager (FPM).

Performs other assigned duties as required or directed to support the branch or the agency. Performs other job-related duties as assigned by supervisor.

Minimum and Additional Requirements

STATE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

High school diploma and relevant experience or bachelor's degree in physical education, recreation, therapeutic recreation or related field can be substitute for experience.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Basic understanding of youth development and the role of recreation in promoting positive behavior.
• Skilled in planning and leading age appropriate physical and recreational activities.
• General knowledge of safety practices for group recreational activities.
• Effective communication and relationship building skills with youth and staff.
• Basic organization skills to maintain supplies schedules and activity documentation.
• Ability to engage youth positively and consistently even in challenging environments

Preferred Qualifications

PREFERRED AGENCY REQUIREMENTS:

A high school diploma and minimum one (1) year relevant experience working with youth in structured settings; secure or residential or a bachelor's degree in physical education, recreation, therapeutic recreation or a related field can be substituted for experience.

Additional Comments

The South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice offers an exceptional benefits package for FTE positions that includes:

• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Health, dental, and life insurance
• 15 days annual (vacation) leave per year
• 15 days of sick leave per year
• 13 paid holidays
• State retirement plans and deferred compensation programs
• Discount Programs such as TicketatWork and WeSave

Applications are incomplete if you fail to answer all supplemental questions, education, and work history. Incomplete applications are not referred to hiring managers. Applications are accepted until 5:00 p.m. on the stated closing date.

You will be asked to provide a certified transcript if selected for a position requiring a degree. A background investigation will be conducted that may include but is not limited to, criminal records, driver's license, and child abuse registry prior to an offer of employment. Additionally, a medical examination and drug testing may be required. Please provide an explanation for any gaps in employment. A resume may be attached to your application but not substituted for completing the work history section of the application.