River Recreation Specialist

Class Title: River Recreation Specialist

Class Code: RIV REC SPEC

Hourly: $25.26 - $33.41 | Monthly: $4378.66 - $5790.96 | Annually: $52543.95 - $69491.46

Benefits: Full-time

OVERVIEW:

This classification is responsible for establishing white water play waves and safe passage water flow settings and for operations of pneumatic bladders to shape waves and control river levels.  This classification is also responsible for providing stewardship of the site promoting safety and proper river use etiquette.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

Works under the general supervision of a Manager.  Follows standard processes and procedures without supervision but confirms changes to standard practices and significant decisions in advance.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED:

Supervision is not a responsibility of the position; however, leadership is exercised over seasonal employees that assist with the wave operations and stewardship.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES:

The information provided below encompasses the typical duties and capabilities linked with this classification.  Duties may include, but are not limited to the following:

• Operates a pneumatic bladder system to shape waves for the white water play area and to control water flows through three river channels, emphasizing safety.
• Analyzes river flow data to adjust and fine tune bladder system; researches and adjusts bladder settings to achieve appropriate upriver pond elevations to ensure a sustainable ecosystem for the threatened species as well as optimal wave conditions for various users’ abilities.
• Develops and maintains bladder operations procedures to include a daily log of settings river and reservoir data, and results.
• Monitors patron and other activity through live-feed webcams.
• Markets and updates Bend Whitewater Park information through a variety of portals, including social media outlets and the District’s website.
• Promotes safety and river etiquette with the public.
• Performs the duties of site steward encouraging the public to follow park rules and regulations.
• Educates the public on the features of the river park and schedules for different ability levels.
• Operates standard office equipment including computers and associated software programs for daily operations as well as tablets/i-pads for remote operation of bladder system.
• Provides training and leadership to seasonal staff in the operation of the pneumatic bladder system.
• Coordinates and meets with regulatory agencies on maintenance activities and water levels.
• Performs park and facility maintenance when operation of bladder system is not required.
• Provides assistance to other restoration and conservation projects within the river corridor.
• Maintains equipment in clean and safe condition
• Makes safety inspections, enforces safety regulations, and actively promotes safe work practices.
• Acts as a Mandatory Reporter; reports incidents of child abuse/neglect.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILL, AND ABILITY REQUIREMENTS:

The individual in this classification is expected to possess and exhibit the following knowledge, skills and abilities.

Strong Knowledge of:

• Safety hazards/issues associated with fast-moving water;
• Pneumatic systems operating procedures and mechanical systems;
• Common characteristics of moving water and familiarity with activities related to whitewater; and
• Boat kayaking and/or surfing.

Skill and Ability to:

• Effectively communicate with others verbally and in writing, including by phone, e-mail or in person;
• Work independently while also able to work cooperatively with others;
• Exercise initiative and good judgement;
• Plan, organize and coordinate pneumatic bladder operations;
• Strong mechanical aptitude; operate and maintain mechanical system;
• Accurately read, analyze and judge water dynamics and river flow data;
• Strong personal swimming skills;
• React quickly and make effective decisions in an emergency situation and maintain emotional and professional composure;
• Effectively de-escalate situations;
• Computer competency in word processing, data entry and spreadsheet applications; and
• Establish and maintain effective, cooperative and respectful working relationships with all contacts.

QUALIFICATIONS:

The following are minimum qualifications for this classification.

Education, Experience, and Training:

1. High school diploma or equivalent; AND
2. Three (3) years of experience in water recreation and working with the public; OR
3. Any satisfactory combination of education, experience and training.

Licenses and Certifications:

1. Possession of or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire a valid Oregon driver’s license.
2. Possession of or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire a valid CPR/First Aide certification.
3. Possession of swift-water rescue and/or EMT/Paramedic certification, preferred.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

The following are working conditions, including environmental and physical demands, required for this classification. 

• Work is performed outdoors in varied extreme weather conditions.
• Physical exertion includes frequent walking, standing or sitting for prolonged periods of time, traversing uneven terrain, bending and the ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds unassisted, pushing, pulling, crouching, crawling, bending, balancing, and kneeling in order to set-up and operate equipment.
• Daily precise control of fingers and hand movement and repetitive motions.
• Regular exposure to hazardous chemicals, vibration, fumes and high noise levels.
• Daily operation of a motor vehicle on public roadways.
• Due to summer and event schedules, ability to work periodic evenings, weekends, and holiday hours may be required.
• Participants in rotating on-call schedule.  May require working for emergency call-out during off duty hours.
• Physical exposures to noise, water, and chemicals.
• May be exposed to stressful emergency situations.

STATUS:

Non-Exempt

Full-Time

Benefits: Full-time

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