Preschool Aide; Recreation Associate

Job Summary

Portland Parks & Recreation is hiring Preschool Assistant (Recreation Associate) for the 2026‑2027 school year. Positions begin mid‑August 2026 and may be assigned to various sites across Portland, OR.

• Plan and lead activities such as arts, crafts, music, performance, science, games, nature, and sports.
• Support the physical, social, and cognitive development of preschool‑aged participants.
• Assist with toileting, diaper changing, nap time, and meal/snack support; a valid food handler certificate is required.
• Provide support for dual‑language learners and children with disabilities or learning differences.
• Maintain a safe environment and respond to challenging behaviors positively.
• Keep accurate program records.
• Represent Portland Parks & Recreation with a positive attitude.
• Work directly with children individually, in small and large groups under a Lead Teacher’s direction.
• Manage classroom and facilitate the social and emotional development of children.
• Co‑coach students in conflict resolution and peer relationships.
• Create an environment that reflects the values and norms of the diverse children and families served.
• Attend staff meetings, planning meetings, and regular training.
• Facilitate open communication and promote group problem solving.
• Relate in a nurturing and sensitive way to children and their families.
• Administer medication (e.g., Epi‑pen, inhaler) as needed.
• Maintain center facilities, equipment, and materials.
• Support diaper and clothes changing.

• Friendly and welcoming demeanor.
• Strong communication skills with diverse individuals.
• Ability to handle safety and emergency situations.
• Problem‑solving ability and customer service orientation.
• Must possess or obtain a food handler card within three weeks of hire.
• Education requirements:
  
  Step 4 on the Oregon Registry Online (ORO) at hiring;
  Step 5 after two years;
  Step 7 or a Preschool Child Development Associate (CDA) by 2030.

Limited benefits are available. For additional information refer to the Benefits section on the agency website.

Training Pay: $20.59 per hour.

Preschool Aide base pay: $20.59 – $24.03 (entry $20.59).

Preschool Aide premium pay: $23.16 – $26.60 (entry $23.16).

Teachers’ Assistants in preschool classrooms receive a $2.57 preschool specialty premium on all hours worked. The premium pay range includes this $2.57.

• Apply online between June 8, 2026 and June 29, 2026.
• Applications will be reviewed to determine eligibility.
• Eligible candidates will be placed on a list of qualified applicants.
• Interviews will be scheduled as positions become available.
• Job offers will be made following interviews.
• Start date will be set after all hiring conditions are met.

Loan Tran Polanco, Senior Recruiter
Loan.

Tran

Portland Parks & Recreation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.