ABOUT THE POSITION This is a lead position that reports to the Library Administrator. An incumbent in this classification is expected to perform a full range of duties and responsibilities, relating to development, scheduling, implementation and evaluation of programs, events and exhibits, under general supervision at the Library.
There is currently one (1) full-time vacancy assisting the Downey Library. However, applicants may be considered for other City Departments based on operational need.
The incumbent is responsible for developing, coordinating, and implementing a variety of specialized activities, programs, and events, as well as supervising part-time employees and volunteers. Duties include scheduling and managing a wide range of programs, such as workshops for all ages, special summer activities, outreach initiatives, professional development sessions, quarterly and annual events, and both hands-on and online activities. Additionally, the incumbent provides direct oversight of the Library's Workshop and Studio spaces, including their staff, programs, and services, ensuring consistent programming throughout the year.
The incumbent also serves as the lead of the Programming Workgroup, composed of staff members across various levels of the organization. They effectively communicate program information and objectives to parent and community groups and collaborate with community-based organizations to co-create programs, activities, and events.
Downey City Library: The Downey City Library is a community centered public library committed to serving the informational, educational and recreational needs of the residents of Downey. The Library offers a wide variety of materials, programs and services to individuals of all ages. The Library recently reopened after a complete renovation that transformed it into a modern and forward-looking public learning place, including new spaces like the Workshop and Studio, along with contemporary resources to better serve its community.
EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS The following examples are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by persons assigned to this classification.
Depending on assignment, duties may include but are not limited to the following:
- Provides oversight in planning, scheduling, implementing, and evaluating of assigned programs;
- Develop and deliver regular programming.
- Organize and schedule activities or events.
- Supervise part-time employees and volunteers;
- Assists the staff in implementation of goals and objectives;
- Assists in the development and monitoring of annual budget;
- Supervises the induction and orientation of new staff;
- Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate the performance of subordinate personnel;
- Interprets the instructional programs to parent and community groups.
QUALIFICATIONS Any combination of education, training, and work experience to demonstrate possession of the knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform in the position is qualifying. A typical combination is as follows:
Education: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree preferably in education and/or science related field. Master's degree is desirable.
Experience: Three (3) years of experience in the implementation of structured programs as an informal educator or teacher, or responsible work experience in after school, education, or relatable hands-on programs involving youth and adults. Experience with social media, website design or archival work is desired.
Knowledge of: Principles, practices, and methods of basic staff supervision and training; effective interpersonal and communication skills using tact, patience, and courtesy; best practices for effective coordination of educational and recreational programs meeting the organization's principles and practices; effective use of Microsoft Office applications including Word and Excel; effective use of Google Workspace applications including Drive, Sheets and Docs; good customer service techniques; principles and techniques of directing group activities; program management, including operations and maintenance; strategic planning techniques; best practices in the use of social media for professional purposes.
Ability to: Effectively coordinate, organize, and implement activities and specialized events; prepare and distribute publicity concerning new or ongoing activities; select, train, supervise, and evaluate performance of assigned personnel; understand community needs in the specialized area of assignment; identify methods to maximize service effectiveness and efficiency; communicate clearly and effectively, orally and in writing; maintain effective and cooperative working relationships with those contacted in the performance of duties; successfully perform under stressful situations, including conflict resolution; understand and follow oral and written directions; provide leadership; and, work with minimum supervision; prioritize job tasks and complete them within specified time frames meeting strict deadlines; work independently and as part of a team; organize and catalogue artifacts and important documents; coordinate and schedule work of temporary and volunteer staff; interpret and enforce policies and procedures; maintain programming and event files; monitor and track fees and payments; use good judgment; be resourceful and take initiative when needed; provide a variety of revenue based programs in the areas of general recreation programs and special events; plan and maintain a budget; evaluate programs for effectiveness. Spanish/English bilingual speaking skills are desired.
LICENSE/CERTIFICATION: Due to the performance of field duties, which may require operation of a motor vehicle, a valid California Class C Driver's License or the ability to utilize an alternative method of transportation when needed to carry out job-related essential functions is required.
California Department of Motor Vehicle (DMV) Pull Notice System: An incumbent appointed to this position is subject to enrollment in the California DMV Pull Notice Program. The Pull Notice program provides information on the incumbent's driving record and Driver's License status on a periodic basis to the City of Downey. An employee assigned a City vehicle must acknowledge receipt and understanding of City Administrative Regulations covering the use of City vehicles.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION PHYSICAL TASKS AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS Work is performed in an office environment with moderate noise levels; duties require the ability to speak, hear, touch and see. Also required is the ability to exert a small amount of physical effort in sedentary to light work involving moving from one area to another; occasionally bending, stooping, kneeling, reaching, pushing and pulling (drawers opened and closed to retrieve and file information); occasionally lifting and carrying materials that weigh less than 20 pounds.
Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter and retrieve data using a computer keyboard, typewriter, or calculator; requires sufficient hand/eye coordination to perform semi-skilled repetitive movements, such as typing on a keyboard, filing, data entry and/or use of a personal computer or other office equipment and supplies; may involve sitting or standing for prolonged periods of time.
Application, Selection, and Testing Process: All required employment application and supplemental questionnaires received will be reviewed and evaluated based on the specialized needs of the education or museum program. All information supplied by an applicant is subject to verification.
Incomplete application materials may result in an application being removed from consideration. A resume will not be accepted in lieu of a completed application and supplemental questionnaire.
Those applicants who most closely meet the desired qualifications will be invited to participate in an appraisal examination process (oral interview). The appraisal examination may include performance testing to assess the applicant's knowledge, experience, and general ability to perform the essential functions of the position.
Candidate(s) who complete testing with acceptable results will be considered by the Department hiring authority. Prior to a Conditional Offer of Employment, a background check that includes employment history review, reference check, and fingerprinting with the California Department of Justice is required. A Conditional Offer of Employment is contingent upon a candidate's completion with acceptable results of a pre-placement job-related medical exam that includes a drug screen.Closing Date/Time: 2/7/2025 5:30 PM Pacific