Part- Time Exceptional Needs Program Aide

City of Madison, AL • Madison, AL

31d • $17

About The Position

Position supports the inclusion and participation of individuals with disabilities in Parks and Recreation programs, including camps, sports, arts, and community events. Working under the supervision of program coordinator, the aide provides one-on-one or small group assistance to participants with physical, developmental, behavioral, or emotional challenges. Responsibilities include facilitating communication, adapting activities, assisting with mobility or personal care, and promoting positive peer interactions. The aide plays a vital role in ensuring a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment where all participants can thrive. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and a commitment to inclusion are essential.

Requirements

• Dependability and consistent attendance is required due to program needs.
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, or sitting on the floor to interact with students.
• May require lifting or assisting students with physical disabilities, including transferring to and from wheelchairs or helping with mobility.
• Assisting with personal care tasks such as toileting, feeding, or hygiene may be required.
• Must be able to respond quickly in physically active or emergency situations.
• Regularly works with participants who may exhibit challenging behaviors, including aggression, noncompliance, or emotional dysregulation.
• Requires patience, emotional resilience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
• Frequent use of de-escalation strategies and behavior support plans.
• Exposure to bodily fluids or contagious illnesses is possible.
• Must maintain confidentiality.
• Required to complete ongoing training in areas such as first aid, CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention), disability awareness, and behavior management
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Strong background record required due to accessibility to employee and city property and children using city parks and facilities.
• Strong work history of dependability and performance.
• Ability to assist with basic caregiving tasks (e.g., toileting, feeding, mobility support) is required.
• Experience working in high-energy environment is required.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with individuals with physical and/or developmental disabilities is strongly preferred. Examples include, but are not limited to, social work, occupational therapy, physical therapy, SPED classrooms, CNA, or similar.

Responsibilities

• Provides direct support and companionship to event participants throughout the duration of any exceptional needs programming/events.
• Assists individuals with mobility, feeding, personal care, and other daily needs as required.
• Participates in and helps facilitate recreational, social, and physical activities.
• Monitors participating in their well-being and promptly report any concerns to supervisory staff.
• Ensures a safe, respectful, and inclusive atmosphere for all attendees.
• Works collaboratively with other aides, volunteers, and event coordinators.
• Assists with setup, cleanup, and transitions between activities as needed.
• Follows all event protocols and emergency procedures.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support
• Education Level: High school or GED