The City of Onalaska is seeking a dedicated and dependableRecreation Coordinatorto support the delivery of high-quality recreation programs and community events that enhance resident well-being and engagement. This position assists with planning, coordinating, promoting, and implementing recreation opportunities for a variety of age groups and interests and provides excellent customer service to program participants, volunteers, and community partners. This position works under the direction of theParks & Recreation Manager and supports department goals through responsive service, strong organization, and effective communication.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
- Recruit, interview, hire, train, schedule, supervise, and evaluate seasonal/part-time employees and volunteer coaches/staff.
- Plan, organize, implement, promote, lead, and execute youth, adult, and senior (55+) recreation programs, sports, and special events. Duties include program registration execution, developing program budgets, organizing contests and tournaments, coordinating tryouts/practices, creating team assignments, and overseeing event operations.
- Oversee all aspects of theOnalaska Aquatic Centerand/orSummer Explores Day Camp(as assigned).
- Promote programs and special events through marketing, promotions, advertising, and public relations, including development of biannual activity guides, social media content, brochures, and team/event schedules.
- Prepare and deliver effective presentations to civic, social, and business groups; consult with businesses, school officials, and community organizations regarding programs and facilities.
- Research marketing and outreach opportunities (publications, internet, social media, and other venues) and make recommendations to the Recreation Manager.
- Assist with office and administrative procedures, including recordkeeping, answering phones, attending staff meetings, meeting with community members, assisting walk-in customers, handling complaints, preparing daily cash deposits and financial reports, paying/submitting invoices in a timely manner, and general clerical duties.
- Research and develop new recreation programs and services, including special events and community engagement opportunities.
- Research and prepare grant applications and identify potential revenue sources.
- Assist in the development of departmental policies, procedures, and reports.
- Assess training needs and develop/implement appropriate training for assigned staff.
- Create, edit, and publish special reports such as annual reports, quarterly newsletters, and monthly reports.
- Reserve park shelters and the aquatic center; ensure keys are issued/picked up and deposits are collected prior to reservation dates.
- Manage the annual sponsorship program, including preparing sponsorship materials/guides, tracking financials, sponsor follow-up, communications, and reporting.
- Manage and update Parks & Recreation social media accounts.
- Manage special community amenities/offerings such as dog park passes, community garden, DNR trail passes, WPRA tickets, Aquatic Center passes, CLTS waiver program, Fleis Scholarship program, urban deer registrations, and facility reservations.
- Organize and manage the community garden program, including hanging basket volunteer recruitment.
- Organize and schedule aquatic recreation activities such as swimming lessons, open swim, lifeguard services, and aquatic special events.
- Contribute to a cooperative working effort by demonstrating a willingness to perform other job-related work as needed or requested; assist others and complete special projects as assigned.
- Perform other duties as needed or assigned.
Compensation & Benefits:The 2026 annual salary range for this exempt position is $62,855 (step 1) through $82,444 (step 11). Starting salary up $66,360 (step 3) depending on qualifications. Eligible for annual wage advancement upon approval. Benefits Include: Health insurance effective the first of the month following 60 days of employment. 2026 most affordable plan (Quartz West): $225.36/month (single). $554.72/month (family). No deductible or co-insurance. Dental insurance through Delta Dental (100% premium paid by the City). Automatic enrollment in the Wisconsin Retirement System (pension plan). Voluntary benefits: vision, flexible spending, life insurance, disability insurance, deferred compensation, pet insurance, critical illness, cancer, and accident insurance. Paid vacation, holidays, and sick leave. Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Qualifying employer under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program.
How to Apply:To be considered for this excellent opportunity, submit an online application at:
https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/onalaskawi. Applications are accepted until 12:00 p.m., April 13, 2026. For additional details, contact:
City of Onalaska – Human Resources City Hall (1st Floor)
415 Main Street, Onalaska, WI 54650
Phone: 608-781-9530 ext. 260
Email: afrandsen@onalaskawi.gov
Additional Information: Initial interviews are anticipated for April 20 and 21, 2026. The selected candidate subject to background screening, post-offer/pre-employment drug screening. The City of Onalaska is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Drug-Free Workplace.
Bachelor’s degree in recreation management, physical education, sports management, or related field or combination of education and experience that provides equivalent knowledge, skills, and abilities. One (1) to three (3) years of related work experience in management of youth, adult and senior programs, special event organization, event planning and/or management of multiple programs. Demonstrated experience in event planning (e.g., run/walks, senior programs, community events). Valid drivers’ license with good driving record. Must obtain Certified Pool Operator or Aquatic Facility Operator within one (1) year of employment. Possession of or ability to obtain Lifeguard Instruction and Water Safety Instructor certifications.
