RECREATION AIDE

Recreation Aide

The Recreation Aide is an entry-level position responsible for supporting the delivery of a wide variety of recreational programs and services. This role assists with program setup and implementation, facility monitoring, customer service, and basic instruction across program areas such as sports, outdoor recreation, youth programs, adult activities, special events, and general community programs. The Recreation Aide helps ensure a safe, positive, and engaging experience for all participants while upholding departmental standards and procedures.

Job Duties

• Assist in teaching, instructing, and conducting recreation activities, classes, camps, and programs for participants of all ages.
• Support the coordination and implementation of recreation programs, including classes, leagues, tournaments, camps, special events, and general activities.
• Set up, break down, and organize equipment, materials, and activity areas to ensure programs operate efficiently and on schedule.
• Assist with the care, monitoring, and maintenance of equipment, supplies, and program materials to support a safe and organized environment.
• Provide basic supervision of program participants, ensuring safety standards, program rules, and facility guidelines are followed.
• Assist with participant check-in, respond to basic customer service inquiries, and communicate professionally with parents, guardians, and community members.
• Support program safety procedures, including completing safety checks, incident forms, and quality assurance reports as directed.
• Assist in maintaining cleanliness and order in facilities, program areas, and activity spaces.
• Observe participant behavior and report concerns, disciplinary issues, or safety hazards to supervisory staff.
• Assist in tracking attendance, distributing program materials, and supporting administrative tasks.
• Represent the department in a professional manner and provide courteous, positive customer service.
• Perform other related duties as assigned by supervisors, lead instructors, or program coordinators.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Basic understanding of rules, skills, and techniques related to assigned program areas.
• Ability to interact positively, respectfully, and effectively in a group and interact with participants of all ages.
• Ability to follow directions and communicate effectively with supervisors and team members.
• Flexibility, positive attitude, enthusiasm, and basic problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to maintain safe work practices in a variety of recreation environments.
• Willingness to work outdoors and in varying weather conditions, depending on program assignment.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

• Depending on the specific program, work is performed in both indoor and outdoor environments, including City parks and public or private facilities.
• Work schedules may include daytime, evening, and occasional weekend hours depending on program needs.
• Must be able to perform routine physical tasks associated with recreation programs, including standing, walking, bending, and lifting equipment.
• Must be able to work safely in active, fast-paced environments with groups of participants.
• Exposure to varying weather conditions may occur when working outdoors.
• Must be able to safely lift and/or carry up to 50 pounds of program equipment and materials.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• Must be 16 years of age or older.
• Ability to communicate effectively with participants, staff, and the public.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and/or weekends, as required.
• Must successfully pass a criminal background check in accordance with applicable regulations.

Other Qualifications: CPR, AED, and First Aid training or have the ability to obtain this training within 6 months of hire (City will provide training).

Supplemental Information

Criminal Background Screening:

• This position may involve access to facilities, worksites, or environments where vulnerable adults and/or minors are present. To help ensure the safety of those individuals, employment is contingent upon successful completion of a criminal background check.
• Background screenings will be conducted only after a conditional offer of employment has been made and will comply with applicable laws, including the Washington Fair Chance Act.
• Applicants must provide consent for the background check before it is conducted.