Recreation Program Aid

JOB ANNOUNCEMENT
City of Unalaska
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS, CULTURE, AND RECREACTION

OPEN DATE:                                     July 21, 2025
CLOSE DATE:                                  August 5, 2025
POSITION:                                        RECREATION PROGRAM AID
SALARY:                                           $23.50 to $25.85 / hour

The City of Unalaska is accepting applications for the position of Recreation Program Aid in the Department of Parks, Culture, and Recreation. Located in the central Aleutian Islands, Unalaska, Alaska, is a multicultural coastal community of approximately 4,500 full-time residents and is home to the number one commercial fishing port in the United States, the International Port of Dutch Harbor.

The following duties ARE NOT intended to serve as a comprehensive list of all duties performed by all employees in this classification. Shown are duties intended to provide a representative summary.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: This Recreation Program Aid position plays a key role in delivering the PCR 360 Afterschool Program, a dynamic and inclusive program serving up to 30 students with diverse needs. The Program Aid assists in implementing engaging activities, ensuring a supportive environment for all participants, including those with special needs and varied care requirements. Responsibilities include supporting program structure, supervising participants, preparing program spaces, and assisting in creating an inclusive atmosphere where every student can thrive. Flexibility is essential, as the Program Aid may also be asked to support additional PCR programs as needed, contributing to the overall success and positive impact of PCR’s community offerings.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Ability to work well with children, especially those in grades 1-4.

• Demonstrated ability to support children with special needs, including the skill to co-regulate during emotional or challenging moments, helping children manage stressors and develop coping strategies in a calm, empathetic manner.

• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and Canva or other poster design software.

Program Delivery Assistance

• Understands the goals and objectives of PCR programs and collaborates with Recreation Coordinators, under the supervision of the Recreation Manager, to implement and deliver activities that align with these goals.

• Follows guidance from the Recreation Program Coordinator to ensure smooth, consistent program delivery.

• Supports the inclusion, safety, and active engagement of participants with special needs by assisting in supervision and providing reasonable accommodations as needed.

• Prepares snacks for participants, ensuring all dietary needs and preferences are considered.

• Cleans and maintains the kitchen in accordance with DEC regulations for commercial kitchens, including washing dishes and ensuring a sanitary food preparation area.

• Prepares and organizes activity areas and supplies to create an inviting and functional environment for program activities.

• Assists in supervising and coordinating program volunteers to ensure a positive and supportive experience for all participants.

• Provides guidance and instruction to participants during activities, offering constructive feedback to encourage skill development and engagement.

• Offers feedback to the Recreation Program Coordinator on program effectiveness, sharing insights to enhance future program delivery.

Customer Service

• Delivers outstanding customer service to all program participants and users of PCR facilities, ensuring a welcoming and supportive environment.

• Communicates any disciplinary issues or concerns with parents in a respectful and timely manner.

• Administers basic first aid to participants as needed, prioritizing their safety and well-being.

• May be responsible for collecting program registration fees and securely transporting them to a PCR manager or Recreation Assistant for processing in the department's cash handling system.

• Provides accurate information about PCR programs to customers and community members, serving as a positive, knowledgeable representative of PCR within the community.

General Office Work

• Files reports, time sheets, and other necessary paperwork

• Help with the designing and printing of program material including flyers and other materials. 

• Used a computer, printer, and other office equipment.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma and or GED required; Combination of education and experience will be evaluated on an individual basis

• One (1) year of recreation experience such as; child care, counseling, coaching, and programming community center events or similar required.

LICENSES & SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Required to have or be able to obtain an Alaska Driver’s License within 90 days of hire

• Ability to pass all required pre-employment testing, i.e., Criminal background, Reference and History, and future random drug testing.

• Must be eligible to work in the US; requirements by Federal Law, if hired, must complete an employment eligibility verification form (I9).

• Training in child behavior improvement and reinforcement techniques like Kelso’s Choice preferred.

• Training in the supervision and care of children with special needs preferred

• Alaska safe food worker trained

BENEFITS: This position requires less than part-time hours of work in a given work week and is not eligible for benefits.

TO APPLY: Submit the following application documents:

1.   City of Unalaska Application Form
2.   Pre-employment Info. & Voluntary Identification of Disability Form (optional)

All necessary forms are available at City Hall, Administration Department, or by downloading at https://www.ci.unalaska.ak.us/hr/page/employment-application-forms. 

Please return the completed forms to the City of Unalaska: Administration, P.O. Box 610, Unalaska, AK 99685, or email [email protected] or fax (907) 581- 4469.

Questions? Please call us at (907) 581-1252.

WE ARE AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER