2025 Seasonal Fitness and Recreation Coordinator - Brooklyn Bridge Park Conservancy

Brooklyn Bridge Park Conservancy plays a vital role in creating and energizing this community-focused, world-class urban oasis on the Brooklyn waterfront. A 501(c)3 non-profit, we bring this unique park space to life with more than 500 innovative and engaging educational, cultural, fitness and recreational programs each year. Our free and low-cost events create new and exciting opportunities for tens of thousands of NYC residents and visitors to learn, grow, and experience all that Brooklyn Bridge Park has to offer.

The Conservancy is seeking a part-time Seasonal Associate Fitness & Recreation Coordinator to support our fitness & recreational programs & efforts during our 2025 season, March - November 2025. This position will report directly to the Director of Public Programs (DPP) and serve as point of contact for our fit & rec partners and specific wellness programs across the season.

The department presents approximately 150 programs annually. We invite visitors to get moving with athletic and fitness opportunities at the Park, including walk up kayaking, and soccer and volleyball leagues for both adults & youth. Fitness enthusiasts at all levels can challenge themselves with Waterfront Workouts. Our wellness partners Chelsea Piers fitness and  Dodge YMCA will host Zumba & Pilates classes. Abhaya Yoga offers sunset yoga classes. 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES:

• Setting up the season requires some hours of Pre-Production, including working with DPP & Programs Coordinator to determine production needs to begin and execute a season of fitness & recreation programs. 
• Liaise with partners, collaborators, instructors and staff to ensure their needs are met (sound, workout materials, etc), and regular check ins on weather to make sure programs can run safely. 
• Coordinate with PPC to confirm staffing & develop relationships with Park Events Associates & Kayak Associates. 
• Supervise youth and adult soccer programs (Requires some Sat early morning &  weekly Weds late evening shifts). 
• Manage various program  email accounts, communicate with teams & parents as needed. 
• Develop relationship with The kayak Foundation & Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse to ensure smooth functioning of public & youth kayak programs. 
• Keep records of permits, attendance, & feedback from participants, staff, instructors etc.
• Prepare rosters for all classes where necessary. 
• Update DPP & PCC weekly. 
• Work directly with Park Operations to successfully facilitate programs. Liaise with departments across the Conservancy and outside vendors (curatorial, security, concession, etc.) to ensure clear communication and ample time for problem-solving

Successful candidate will gain the following knowledge & experience

Knowledge:

1. Event Coordination & Production:
   • Knowledge of fitness and recreational program logistics (e.g., space setup, equipment, scheduling, permits).
   • Familiarity with seasonal program execution, including coordination with multiple departments and external partners.
2. Health and Wellness Programming:
   • Familiarity with various fitness activities (e.g., yoga, Pilates, soccer, kayaking) and recreational programs.
   • Knowledge of safety protocols for outdoor fitness and recreational activities, particularly in urban or waterfront environments.
3. Customer Service and Community Engagement:
   • Understanding of customer relations and communication within a community-oriented non-profit.
   • Knowledge of community engagement strategies to ensure programs are inclusive and accessible.
4. Collaboration and Partnership Management:
   • Knowledge of how to liaise effectively with external partners (e.g., fitness instructors, wellness organizations, local vendors) and internal teams.
   • Understanding of partnership dynamics and expectations, especially for fitness, recreation, and wellness partners.
5. Weather and Risk Management:
   • Knowledge of how to assess weather conditions and make quick, informed decisions regarding the safety and continuity of outdoor programs.
6. Data Management & Reporting:Understanding of basic data tracking, including attendance records, feedback collection, and progress reporting.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

For the role of Seasonal Associate Fitness & Recreation Coordinator at the Brooklyn Bridge Park Conservancy, the following skills, and abilities are necessary:

Skills:

1. Organizational Skills:
   • Ability to manage multiple programs simultaneously, stay on top of schedules, and track details like permits, staffing, and logistics.
   • Strong time management to ensure programs run smoothly and deadlines are met.
2. Communication Skills:
   • Excellent verbal and written communication skills for working with program partners, park staff, participants, and vendors.
   • Ability to communicate clearly and effectively in both group settings and one-on-one interactions, including with diverse community members.
3. Problem-Solving & Adaptability:
   • Ability to identify and resolve issues on the spot, from logistical challenges to weather-related concerns.
   • Comfort with working in dynamic and changing environments where quick decision-making may be needed.
4. Teamwork and Collaboration:
   • Ability to work collaboratively with different departments (e.g., Park Operations, Public Programs, Park Events, etc.).
   • Ability to build and maintain positive working relationships with park staff, external vendors, and community partners.
5. Leadership and Supervision:
   • Ability to supervise and guide staff, particularly for the youth and adult soccer programs.
   • Experience in managing volunteers or part-time staff and ensuring a productive, safe, and enjoyable program environment.
6. Technical Proficiency:
   • Familiarity with managing email accounts, using scheduling tools, and updating digital records or databases.
   • Comfortable using basic office software (e.g., Google Suite, Microsoft Office) and potentially park-specific management software.

Abilities:

1. Flexibility & Availability:
   • Ability to work evenings, weekends, and early mornings, as required by the program schedule (e.g., weekend soccer programs, evening fitness classes).
   • Ability to adjust plans quickly in response to changing weather, participant needs, or program adjustments.
2. Attention to Detail:
   • Strong attention to detail when managing permits, contracts, and participant data.
   • Ability to ensure all program materials, equipment, and staffing are prepared and organized for each event.
3. Customer-Focused:
   • Ability to engage positively with program participants, from youth to adults, creating an inclusive and welcoming environment.
   • Ability to handle participant feedback, questions, or concerns professionally and effectively.
4. Physical Stamina:
   • Ability to work in an outdoor environment and move between various program sites.
   • Comfortable with physically demanding tasks (e.g., setting up and breaking down equipment, overseeing active programs). up to 40lbs 
5. Conflict Resolution:
   • Ability to manage conflicts or issues among participants, staff, or partners in a calm and professional manner.
   • Skill in de-escalating situations and maintaining a positive program environment.
6. Community-Oriented:
   • A passion for community engagement and creating opportunities for local residents to participate in wellness and recreational activities.
   • Ability to work effectively in a non-profit setting, where collaboration and community engagement are key to success.

Compensation: 

This is a part-time, hourly, non-exempt temporary position.  15 hours per week

Pay rate is $25 per hour for the season, March - November 2025.  Onsite Wednesday evening and Saturday mornings required.

Brooklyn Bridge Park Conservancy provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. Committed to an inclusive and equitable work environment, BIPOC candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.