A best-in-class city that attracts best-in-class talent, Philadelphia is an incredible place to build a career. From our thriving arts scene and rich history to our culture of passion and grit, there are countless reasons to love living and working here. With a workforce of over 30,000 people, and more than 1,000 different job categories, the City of Philadelphia offers boundless opportunities to make an impact.

As an employer, the City of Philadelphia values inclusion, integrity, innovation, empowerment, and hard work above all else. We offer a vibrant work environment, comprehensive health care and benefits, and the experience you need to grow and excel. If you’re interested in working with a passionate team of people who care about the future of Philadelphia, start here.

What we offer

• Impact - The work you do here matters to millions. 
• Growth - Philadelphia is growing, why not grow with it? 
• Diversity & Inclusion - Find a career in a place where everyone belongs.
• Benefits - We care about your well-being.

Agency Description

Philadelphia Parks & Recreation (PPR) advances the prosperity of the city and the progress of her people through intentional and sustained stewardship of over 10,200 acres of public land and waterways as well as through hundreds of safe, stimulating recreation, environmental, and cultural centers. PPR promotes the well-being and growth of the City’s residents by connecting them to the natural world around them, to each other, and to fun, physical, and social opportunities. PPR is responsible for the upkeep of historically significant Philadelphia events and specialty venues, and works collaboratively with communities and organizations in leading capital projects and the introduction of inventive programming. To learn more about Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, visit us at www.phila.gov/parksandrec, and follow @philaparkandrec on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or Tumblr.

The Community Engagement Specialist will provide community engagement and organizing capacity across the PPR system under the direction of the Community Engagement Director. Working closely with the community engagement team, PPR staff, and various partners, the Community Engagement Specialist will expand relationships with community members, build and strengthen recreation advisory councils, and manage a sustainable network of recreation volunteers and community partners. This position will require frequent travel to PPR sites across the City and work will take place both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.

This is a 2-year grant-funded position. Continued employment beyond this time frame is subject to the availability of funds.

Essential Functions

• Represent Parks and Recreation at community meetings, advisory council meetings, Rebuild meetings, and community events
• Strengthen relationships with community members and recreation advisory councils
• Assist with outreach and project development
• Develop relationships with community partners, organizations, and community representatives. 
• Understand community needs and communicate information to key Parks and Recreation staff
• Support PPR staff to build awareness of PPR programs, events, and resources through community outreach and engagement
• Provide technical assistance as needed
• Act as a liaison between the recreation center volunteers, PPR, and City agencies and representatives
• Ensure that program design and events incorporate community voice, community engagement and feedback
• Coordinate engagement activities with Civic Commons community partners. Support PPR staff to build strong networks of community partnerships
• Coordinate with Rebuild staff, community partners, advisory councils, and community members as needed to support community voice in the Rebuild process
• Perform outreach and engagement (i.e. flyering, phone calls, etc) 
• Assist in the development of PRAC and citywide initiatives
• Apply conflict resolution best practices
• Data entry
• Support the Community Engagement team as needed
• Other related duties as assigned

Competencies, Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of community engagement/organization best practices
• Knowledge of conflict resolution best practices
• Detail oriented, with excellent organizational skills
• Ability to communicate both written and verbally at a high level
• Proficient in Microsoft Office
• Ability to work independently, follow organizational procedures, and perform under deadlines
• Ability to facilitate a presentation using computer software and other equipment
• Ability to Self-direct,
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks
• Strong time management skills
• Ability to be flexible with changing priorities
• Ability to build relationships at varying levels

• Highschool diploma or equivalent
• Bachelor’s degree in related discipline preferred
• Two years of experience in community engagement and organizing, youth development or related field
• Knowledge of and experience working in West Philadelphia, Southwest Philadelphia, and Strawberry Mansion communities highly preferred
• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Ability to work nights and weekends required
• Valid PA Driver’s License preferred

TO APPLY: Interested candidates must submit a cover letter and resume.

Did you know?

• We are a Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program qualified employer
• 25% tuition discount program for City employees (and sometimes spouses and dependents as well) in partnership with area colleges and universities
• We offer Comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents
• Our wellness program offers eligibility into the discounted medical plan
• Employees receive paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Generous retirement savings options are available

*The successful candidate must be a city of Philadelphia resident within six months of hire

Please note that effective September 1, 2021 the City of Philadelphia is requiring all new employees to present proof of vaccination against COVID-19. 

The City of Philadelphia is an Equal Opportunity employer and does not permit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, source of income, familial status, genetic information or domestic or sexual violence victim status. If you believe you were discriminated against, call the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations at 215-686-4670 or send an email to [email protected].

For more information, go to: Human Relations Website: http://www.phila.gov/humanrelations/Pages/default.aspx