1

Program Aide Jobs in Santa Cruz, CA (NOW HIRING)

The Program Aide also performs other related duties as needed. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: Childcare Support: * Provides guidance to small groups of children in the areas of self-concept, sensory ...

The Program Aide also performs other related duties as needed. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: Childcare Support: * Provides guidance to small groups of children in the areas of self-concept, sensory ...

School Aide

San Jose, CA

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

The School Aide is an individual who works with students requiring instructional, and/or behavioral ... Awards and recognition programs *Benefit eligibility is dependent on employment status. About ...

School Aide

San Jose, CA

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

The School Aide is an individual who works with students requiring instructional, and/or behavioral ... Awards and recognition programs *Benefit eligibility is dependent on employment status. About ...

School Aide

Saratoga, CA

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

The School Aide is an individual who works with students requiring instructional, and/or behavioral ... Awards and recognition programs *Benefit eligibility is dependent on employment status. About ...

New

Teachers Aide

San Jose, CA · On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

Teachers Aide Gloria Dei Early Learning Center Preschool Aide Sub. Job highlights Qualifications ... Our program and supportive environment encourage children to participate in activities and ...

Graduated from an accredited Home Health Aide program * High School Diploma or GED * One year prior professional experience * Driver's license required * CPR certification required

Graduated from an accredited Home Health Aide program * High School Diploma or GED * One year prior professional experience * Driver's license required * CPR certification required

next page

Showing results 1-20

Program Aide information

See Santa Cruz, CA salary details

$11

$21

$31

How much do program aide jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for program aide in Santa Cruz, CA is $21.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a program aide?

A program aide provides clerical support of an after-school or summer program for students. Their job duties include helping students with program activities, handling administrative tasks, and interacting with students and parents. The qualifications for a career as a program aide are a high school diploma, although some employers may prefer a post-secondary degree, experience with kids, and teaching skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a program aide, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Program Aide, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with basic knowledge of child development or program-specific procedures. Familiarity with scheduling software, basic computer applications, and safety protocols is often required. Strong communication, patience, and teamwork skills help Program Aides effectively support staff and interact with participants. These competencies enable Program Aides to ensure smooth program operations and create a positive, supportive environment for all involved.

What are some common challenges faced by program aides when supporting classroom activities, and how can they be addressed?

Program Aides often encounter challenges such as managing diverse student needs, balancing multiple tasks, and supporting lead teachers during busy periods. To address these, it's important to maintain open communication with the teaching team, stay organized with daily routines, and seek guidance or training on classroom management techniques. Being proactive and flexible can also help Program Aides effectively support both students and staff, ensuring a positive learning environment.

What is the difference between Program Aide vs Program Coordinator?

AspectProgram AideProgram Coordinator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationsHigh school diploma; some roles may require additional certifications or experience
Work EnvironmentAssists in program delivery, often in community or educational settingsOversees program planning, management, and staff coordination
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, community centers, educational institutionsNonprofits, government agencies, educational organizations

Program Aides typically support program activities and require basic credentials, working under supervision. Program Coordinators have more responsibility for planning and managing programs, often needing additional experience or certifications. Both roles are common in community and educational settings, but they differ in scope and level of responsibility.

What are the most commonly searched types of Program jobs in Santa Cruz, CA?

The most popular types of Program jobs in Santa Cruz, CA are:

What job categories do people searching Program Aide jobs in Santa Cruz, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Program Aide jobs in Santa Cruz, CA are:

What cities near Santa Cruz, CA are hiring for Program Aide jobs?

Cities near Santa Cruz, CA with the most Program Aide job openings:

Infographic showing various Program Aide job openings in Santa Cruz, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,702 per year, or $22 per hour.

PROGRAM AIDE (ON-CALL)

COMMUNITY BRIDGES

Santa Cruz, CA • On-site

$22.28/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Community Bridges, Inc. rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Community Bridges envisions a thriving community where every person has the opportunity to unleash their full potential.Our family of ten programs delivers essential services, provides equitable access to resources, and advocates for health and dignity across every stage of life.

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

Under supervision of the Program Manager, the Program Aide prepares and provides activities for families with children of various ages. The Program Aide also performs other related duties as needed.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Childcare Support:
  • Provides guidance to small groups of children in the areas of self-concept, sensory awareness, problem solving, concept formation and muscle development.
  • As directed, prepares and plans activities appropriate to the developmental needs and expressed interest of children.
  • Assists with supervision of small groups of children whose parents are participating in a discussion or education group.
  • Communicates information about children in care to the child's parent or guardian; initiates communication at arrival and exit to establish important information pertinent to the child's care.
  • Maintains an environment that fosters healthy emotional, social, cognitive and physical growth.
  • Supervises snacks and meals.
  • Cleans and maintains childcare equipment, such as toys, art materials, kitchen areas, storage areas, and rooms.
  • Provides for the health and safety of the children.
  • Assists with general clean up and for the opening/closing of the sites.
Professional Conduct:
  • Maintains professional competence through participation in in-service and early childhood education.
  • Communicates effectively and respectfully with parents, volunteers and other staff at the Center, including persons from different racial, cultural and ethnic groups and from different backgrounds and lifestyles.
  • Abides by child abuse reporting laws.
  • Attends program and agency meetings and training's as required.
  • Maintains confidentiality as it relates to clients, personnel, the agency and all records.

Job descriptions are intended to be illustrative only; they are not designed to be restrictive or to define each and every assigned duty and responsibility. In an organization of this nature, each employee is expected to perform such duties as necessary to fulfill the stated goals of the agency.

We screen all applicants, require background checks on final candidates consistent with funding regulation requirements and are a Drug-Free Work Place.

UNION:

The program aide position is represented by the SEIU bargaining unit.

OTHER JOB DETAILS:

  • This is a FLSA non-exemptposition.
  • This position is eligible for a $.20/hr differential for on-call employees and plus a $.40/hr bilingual differential after passing a test administered by the HR department.
  • On-site attendance during scheduled work hours is required of this position

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS:

Knowledge of:

  • Methods and techniques of early childhood education;
  • Child development and family life education; and
  • Child health and first aid.

Ability to:

  • Supervise children up to the age of 18;
  • Direct classroom activities; and
  • Work cooperatively with other staff, volunteers, parents and representatives of community organizations and agencies.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Must have a combination of education and experience that provides the skills, knowledge and abilities listed. A typical way to obtain these qualifications would be to have obtained units in Early Childhood Education and/or have work or personal experience that demonstrates an interest in and ability to work with children.
  • Bi-lingual English/Spanish preferred.
  • Must be willing to work at various times and days, including some nights and weekends.
  • Must possess physical stamina to stand for long periods of time and sufficient strength to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Must pass a criminal background check and maintain a clean record.

What Community Bridges, Inc. employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom