Program Support Aide

Salary: $18.53 - $20.10 Hourly

Location : 414 W. Hanagita, AK

Job Type: Temporary

Job Number: T25.16

Department: Parks & Recreation

Opening Date: 05/13/2025

The City of Valdez Parks & Recreation Department is hiring for a Program Support Aide.

Under the supervision of the Recreation Coordinator, Day Camp Director and/or Program Leader, this position will assist in supervising and implementing daily operations one-on-one or in small groups with youth with special needs in summer day camp program. This position will provide individualized support to help campers participate in activities, maintain safety, and enjoy a positive camp experience. The ideal candidate is patient, energetic, and committed to making an inclusive environment for all campers.

Minimum Qualifications: Recreation

Minimum 18 years of age

Experience working with children with special needs.

Obtain and maintain First Aid/CPR/AED certification within the first month of work (training provided).

Experience working with youth; experience working with youth in a recreation setting is preferred.

This is a temporary, non-benefited position working June through early/mid August. Position may be asked to work days, evenings, weekends, or holidays.

Review of applicants begins May 27, 2025. Position is open until filled.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

Ability to adapt instructions for participants with special conditions or physical limitations.

Encourage camper engagement by offering guidance to promote social interaction and skill-building

Monitor camper behavior and use proactive strategies to support positive behavior and emotional regulation

Collaborate with camp staff to ensure a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable environment for all campers

Participate in staff training and meetings to stay informed on camper needs, safety procedures, and inclusive practices

Model appropriate behavior and attitudes, serving as a positive role model for all campers

Supervise and monitor program participants to ensure well-being, health and safety.

Interact with and create a fun environment for program participants.

Assists with program record keeping, including confidential participant records.

Works in a safe manner and reports unsafe activity and conditions, and intervenes when necessary.

Responds to emergency situations as required and maintains accurate reporting.

Works as a team member; maintains a cooperative attitude with employees, staff and supervisors.

Attends staff meetings and in-service trainings, as required.

May perform general cleaning and light maintenance as needed.

Must comply with City and departmental rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Other Characteristics:

Possess good working knowledge of recreation programs.

Basic understanding of child development and/or experience working with children, especially those with diverse needs or disabilities

Patients, empathy, and emotional resilience, especially when supporting children with behavioral, sensory, or communication differences

Demonstrates excellent communication skills; both written and verbal.

Leadership skills

Ability to work effectively with various age groups.

Ability to work in a fast-paced and changing environment.

Ability to follow instructions and policies; both written and verbal.

Ability to act as a role model to participants during activities and trips (cleanliness, punctuality and sportsmanship).

Physical requirement and work environment:

Work environment is varied depending on facility, venue and program; indoor and outdoor year round.

Possibility of working in inclement weather.

Physical ability to participate in activities; run, climb, swim, lift or support the weight of children.

Minimum Qualifications: Recreation

Minimum 18 years of age

Experience working with children with special needs.

Obtain and maintain First Aid/CPR/AED certification within the first month of work (training provided).

Experience working with youth; experience working with youth in a recreation setting is preferred.

This is a non-benefited temporary position.