Recreation Employment - Preschool Aide (Recreation Associate) - Talent Pool

About the role

We are hiring for the 2026-2027 school year. Become a preschool assistant or a preschool substitute with Portland Parks Preschool, a Preschool for All Provider. In this role, you will work in classrooms with children aged 3-5 years. We are looking for individuals who enjoy working with kids and have an understanding of social emotional learning for preschool age students. Additionally, speaking a second language is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Plan and lead various activities like arts, crafts, music, performance, science, games, nature, and sports
• Support the physical, social, and cognitive development of preschool-aged participants
• Toileting and diaper changing support
• Nap time support
• Meal and snack support; an active food handlers certificate will be required
• Supporting dual language learners
• SUPPORTING CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES AND/OR LEARNING DIFFERENCES
• Maintain a safe environment and respond to challenging behaviors in a kind and positive manner
• Maintain accurate program records
• Represent Portland Parks & Recreation with a positive attitude
• Work directly with children individually, in small and large groups under the direction of a Lead Teacher
• Provide classroom management and facilitate the social and emotional development of children
• Provide in the moment coaching for students to gain skills in conflict resolution, skills to improve peer social relationships and emotional regulation
• Contributes to the creation of an environment that reflects the values and norms of the diverse children and families we serve
• Attend and participate in staff meetings, planning meetings, and regular training
• Facilitate open communication and promote group problem solving
• Relate in a positive, nurturing way and be sensitive to the needs of children and their families
• Medication administration (i.e., Epi pen, inhaler)
• Maintain center facilities, equipment, and materials
• Support changing diapers and soiled clothes

Requirements

• Be friendly and welcoming
• Communicate well with different people
• Be able to handle safety and emergency situations
• Be able to solve problems and help customers with their concerns
• Applicant Must Also Possess or obtain a Food handler card (https://www.orfoodhandlers.com/eMain.aspx), within three weeks of hire

Qualifications

• Be friendly and welcoming
• Communicate well with different people
• Be able to handle safety and emergency situations
• Be able to solve problems and help customers with their concerns
• Applicant Must Also Possess or obtain a Food handler card (https://www.orfoodhandlers.com/eMain.aspx), within three weeks of hire

Skills

• Ability to work with children aged 3-5 years
• Understanding of social emotional learning for preschool age students
• Speaking a second language is beneficial
• Food handler certification

Benefits

This job has limited benefits. Click the Benefits tab for more information.

Pay

Recreation Associate Pay Training Pay is $20.59 for all Recreation Associate jobs. Preschool Aide base pay is $20.59 - $24.03 (entry is $20.59) Preschool Aide premium pay is $23.16-$26.60 (entry is $23.16) Employees working as Teacher’s Assistants in classrooms during the 2026-2027 program year, will receive a premium of $2.57 per hour for Preschool Specialty premium on all hours worked in preschool classrooms. For more information, please click here . The premium pay range listed includes the $2.57 premium.

About Us

Portland Parks & Recreation is dedicated to making sure everyone can enjoy our parks and services, no matter what their background. We value diversity and are committed to equity and inclusion. We encourage people who speak English and other languages to apply.

Contact Information

Loan Tran Polanco, Senior Recruiter
Loan.Tran@portlandoregon.gov

How To Apply

Click "APPLY" to submit your application online. You need to answer the supplemental questions and fill out your work history. If you are a Veteran and want preference, attach your Veteran documents.