Preschool Aide (Recreation Associate)

City of Portland • Multiple Locations, OR

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Join Portland Park's Recreation Preschool for All Team and Connect with Our Community! We are hiring for the 2026-2027 school year. These positions will start mid-August 2026. Become a preschool assistant 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.

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.
• Possess or obtain a Food handler card ( https://www.orfoodhandlers.com/eMain.aspx ), within three weeks of hire.
• Step 4 on the Oregon Registry Online (ORO)
• After 2 years of participating in Preschool for All: Step 5 on the Oregon Registry Online (ORO)
• By 2030, Preschool for All will require: Step 7 on the Oregon Registry Online (ORO) or a Preschool Child Development Associate (CDA)

Nice To Haves

• Speaking a second language is beneficial.
• Staff who do not currently meet the minimum requirements must work with their Supervisor to determine how they are going to reach the required level within two years of employment.

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)
• Maintenance of center facilities, equipment, and materials.
• Support changing diapers and soiled clothes

Benefits

• Limited benefits
• If you speak another language besides English and use it to help the community, you may get extra pay.
• Union: This job is a part of (LiUNA) Labors' Local 483 - Recreation.
• You will start at the entry-level pay rate.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree