Seasonal Recreation Aide

City of Olympia•Olympia, WA

10d•$19 - $23•Onsite

About The Position

We are hiring Seasonal Recreation Aides to support our summer youth programs. This is a hands-on role that directly impacts the success of our summer camps, which serve children ages 3-12. As a Recreation Aide, you will assist in planning and leading activities such as arts and crafts, sports, field games, and special events, all while ensuring a safe and engaging environment for participants. Our department offers a variety of summer programs that have become a core part of Olympia’s community life. Your role will help provide innovative, reliable, and fun experiences for local youth, contributing to our goal of enriching lives through quality recreational activities.

Requirements

Must be at least 16 years old by the start of employment.
Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and work collaboratively with other staff.
Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with a diverse audience.
Completion of supplemental application questions is required for consideration.
Applicants must undergo a criminal background check as required by the Child and Adult Abuse Act (RCW 43.43).
General knowledge of child oriented recreational activities, non-competitive games, sports, and craft activities.
Skill in working with diverse groups of and individual youth and children.
Skill in interpersonal conflict/dispute resolution methods.
Ability to communicate with the public in a calm, tactful, and nonjudgmental manner.
Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with diverse groups and individuals.
Ability to monitor and conduct outdoor/indoor playground related activities.
Ability to clearly explain recreation programs, rules, procedures, and regulations.
Ability to clearly explain and demonstrate safe use of play equipment, creative craft materials, and games.
Ability to work as a member of a public service oriented team.
Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with a wide diversity of individuals and groups.
Ability to respond to questions and complaints in a courteous and tactful manner.
Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
Ability to understand, learn, and apply the rules of outdoor sports, games, and activities.
Ability to communicate effectively with diverse individuals and groups.
Experience providing in-person service to a diverse public.
Candidates must be at least 18 years old before starting work.
In accordance with RCW 43.43.830, persons selected for positions in this classification must successfully complete a criminal record check prior to beginning employment with the City of Olympia.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with children in a recreation or educational setting is preferred but not required.
Be enthusiastic, reliable, and eager to work as part of a team.
Possess strong communication skills and the ability to engage and motivate children.
Be adaptable and flexible to changing schedules and tasks.
Have an interest in recreational activities such as sports, arts, and games.
Demonstrate a commitment to fostering environments that celebrate diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Education and/or experience providing public service to children in recreation, community based programs, physical education, or a closely related field preferred.

Responsibilities

Plan and prepare materials for activities, including arts and crafts, sports, games, and special events.
Lead and supervise groups of children (ages 3-12) in structured and unstructured activities.
Assist the Recreation Program Lead in the implementation of camp programs and activities.
Foster a positive, inclusive, and engaging atmosphere for campers, encouraging participation and teamwork.
Ensure safety and proper conduct by monitoring participant behavior and maintaining an orderly environment.
Be actively involved in the day-to-day activities of the camp, working in both outdoor and indoor settings.
Provide excellent customer service to children, parents, and other staff members.
Follow City policies and safety regulations, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all participants.
Under direct supervision, assist with the provision of recreational activities to youth 6 to 12 years old in outdoor settings in local public parks and recreational facilities.
Conduct athletic events, arts and craft activities, and non-competitive games by preparing play areas, equipment, and materials for use by program participants, explaining rules and regulations, demonstrating craft projects, providing assistance, monitoring participant play and conduct, and encouraging active, positive, and enriching participation in activities.
Keep activities on schedule and within guidelines as required.
Resolve customer service or conduct problems in person or with supervisory/law enforcement assistance as needed.
Punctual, regular and reliable attendance is essential for successful job performance.