Recreation Aide-Child Watch

City of Maricopa•Copper Sky, AZ

About The Position

The Recreation Aide – Child Watch supervises children of various ages and developmental levels and plans and leads activities such as crafts, games, structured play, and lessons. The role helps ensure a safe, welcoming environment by following safety protocols, facility rules, and City policy. The aide follows the Recreation Services Leader’s direction, works independently when needed, and may exercise judgment to support safe program operations when a lead is absent. This can include addressing routine parent or guardian concerns, enforcing rules, managing minor behavioral issues using approved guidance, implementing emergency procedures, and completing required documentation. The position supports Child Watch operations, including opening and closing the program area, checking children in and out, communicating with families and coworkers, and maintaining the cleanliness and sanitation of the area. The aide may also assist in other facility areas, train new Recreation Aides, and be rotated or transferred to other facilities or assignments according to department or seasonal needs.

Requirements

Must be at least 16 years old.
Six months of experience working in the care of children.
Must be available to work flexible hours, including weekends, evenings, and holidays.
Knowledge of specialized childcare best practices, including infant care and care for children with special needs or disabilities.
Knowledge of common child safety practices and facility rules, programs, policies, and operating procedures.
Skills in problem solving, conflict resolution, supervising and engaging children of all ages, multitasking, prioritizing tasks, effective verbal and written communication, relationship building, customer service, and using required technology.
Ability to be tactful and courteous with children and adults; follow direction while exercising sound judgment and initiative; build rapport with children from varied backgrounds; communicate effectively with coworkers, supervisors, and the public; lead staff and customers when the emergency plan is activated; provide accurate information on youth and teen programs; and respond to customer requests.

Nice To Haves

CPR, First Aid, and AED certification; certification is required within the first six months of employment.
American Red Cross Babysitting Certificate.
Previous public sector or recreation experience.
Bilingual skills.
Level 1 Fingerprint Clearance Card.
Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered for preferred qualifications at the hiring authority’s discretion.

Responsibilities

Provide a safe and enjoyable environment for children and their parents or guardians.
Assist with daily operations, including opening and closing the program area and checking children in and out using established Child Watch safety protocols.
Activate and execute the Emergency Action Plan when needed.
Develop and coordinate daily and weekly activities.
Supervise children of varying ages and developmental levels.
Manage challenging behaviors using age-appropriate guidance and positive behavior techniques.
Explain park, facility, and program rules, equipment care, and acceptable conduct to patrons and participants in a helpful and positive manner.
Communicate with parents or guardians when needed.
Answer Child Watch telephone and radio calls.
Complete and report accidents or injuries occurring in the assigned area.
Communicate with the lead and supervisor about needed supplies and program materials.
Develop positive relationships with customers and provide routine information about facility rules and division activities.
Assist with housekeeping and maintain area cleanliness and sanitation, including handling bodily-fluid exposure according to safety guidelines.
Assist in training and mentoring new Recreation Aides.
Assist in other facility areas, including the Service Desk and Fitness areas.
Perform related duties while temporarily filling in for other Recreation positions and undertake other duties as assigned.