TJ WATKINS
Glendale,WI
Summary
Detail-oriented municipal professional with experience supporting administrative operations, staff supervision, payroll coordination, records management, and public-facing services within city and village government. Demonstrated ability to step into acting leadership roles, prepare reports for administration and committees, maintain accurate and confidential records, and support efficient daily operations. Known for strong organization, clear communication, and a steady, dependable approach in fast-paced, service-oriented environments.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Recreation Specialist
City of New Berlin
01.2024 - Current
- Oversee daily operations for two municipal recreation facilities, ensuring proper staffing coverage, accurate scheduling, and consistent administrative procedures.
- Supervise, train, and support more than 50 part-time and seasonal employees, including onboarding, timekeeping guidance, and ongoing staff communication.
- Review and verify employee timesheets, track attendance, and coordinate closely with the Finance Department to resolve payroll discrepancies, corrections, and questions.
- Maintain organized personnel, scheduling, and operational records to ensure accuracy, accountability, and compliance with City policies.
- Prepare internal reports, summaries, and documentation for department leadership and City Administration.
- Coordinate large-scale programs and special events, including budgeting, contracts, vendor payments, and post-event financial reconciliation.
- Provide front-counter and phone support to residents, responding to questions, registrations, and concerns in a professional and timely manner.
- Assist with departmental communications, including website updates, newsletters, and public information postings.
Parks & Recreation Supervisor
Village of Brown Deer
01.2023 - 12.2023
- Managed administrative and operational functions for municipal programs and 3recreation facilities, including 50 part-time staff, scheduling, payroll coordination, and documentation.
- Prepared attendance, financial, and operational reports for Village Administration, leadership staff, and committee review.
- Served as Acting Director during absences, overseeing daily operations, supervising staff, addressing resident concerns, and ensuring continuity of services.
- Assisted with drafting and updating internal procedures related to program operations, staff oversight, and facility use.
- Coordinated with schools, community organizations, and external partners to support municipal programming and initiatives.
- Supported department communications and administrative follow-up related to policies, scheduling, and public inquiries.
Recreation Associate
City of New Berlin
02.2022 - 12.2022
- Supported administrative operations including budget tracking, purchasing, personnel onboarding, and program documentation.
- Processed invoices, monitored expenditures, and maintained accurate financial and operational records.
- Assisted with staff scheduling, timekeeping support, and payroll documentation for part-time employees.
- Responded to resident inquiries and worked with internal departments to resolve issues efficiently and professionally.
- Assisted with meeting preparation, report compilation, and general office support functions.
Aquatic Manager
Milwaukee YMCA
05.2019 - 08.2021
- Managed scheduling, payroll approvals, attendance tracking, and personnel records for aquatics staff.
- Maintained compliance with state regulations, safety standards, and organizational policies, including confidential employee records.
- Oversaw program budgets, purchasing, and financial tracking.
- Developed and implemented updated procedures to improve efficiency and compliance during COVID-19 operations.
- Supervised staff, conducted training, and ensured consistent documentation and reporting.
Education
General Education Studies -
Milwaukee Area Technical College
Milwaukee, WI01.2022
Skills
- Municipal Administration & Office Operations
- Meeting Preparation & Report Drafting
- Payroll & Timekeeping Support
- Personnel Records & Confidential File Management
- Staff Supervision & Acting Leadership
- Policy & Procedure Compliance
- Public & Customer Service
- Interdepartmental Coordination
- Microsoft Office & Teams
- Database Management
Certification
- First Aid / CPR / AED Instructor
- CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers Instructor
- Lifeguarding Instructor
- Aquatic Facility Operator (AFO)
Timeline
Recreation Specialist
City of New Berlin
01.2024 - Current
Parks & Recreation Supervisor
Village of Brown Deer
01.2023 - 12.2023
Recreation Associate
City of New Berlin
02.2022 - 12.2022
Aquatic Manager
Milwaukee YMCA
05.2019 - 08.2021
General Education Studies -
Milwaukee Area Technical College