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Recreation Assistant Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Recreation Leader I

Lincoln City, OR ยท On-site

$15.55 - $18.05/hr

Part-Time Recreation Leader I Parks and Recreation Department-Community Center Non-Represented/No Benefits $15.55 - $18.05 per hour Open Until Filled Do you enjoy working with children? Are you ...

Showing results 21-40

Recreation Assistant information

See Oregon salary details

$11

$18

$24

How much do recreation assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for recreation assistant in Oregon is $18.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $19.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a recreation assistant do?

A Recreation Assistant helps plan, organize, and lead recreational activities for groups and individuals in community centers, parks, camps, or fitness facilities. Their duties often include setting up equipment, assisting with event coordination, supervising participants, and ensuring safety guidelines are followed. They may also help maintain facilities and provide customer service to participants. Recreation Assistants play a key role in creating enjoyable and engaging experiences for people of all ages.

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

To thrive as a Recreation Assistant, you need knowledge of recreational programming, physical fitness, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with scheduling software, activity planning tools, and CPR/First Aid certification is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, and the ability to motivate others help you engage diverse participants and foster a positive environment. These competencies ensure safe, enjoyable, and inclusive recreational experiences for all participants.

How does a recreation assistant typically collaborate with other team members to ensure successful events and activities?

As a Recreation Assistant, collaboration is a key part of the role. You will often work closely with recreation coordinators, instructors, and facility staff to plan, set up, and supervise activities and events. Regular communication is essential to coordinate logistics, share updates, and address any issues that arise during programs. Being proactive, adaptable, and a team player helps ensure that events run smoothly and participants have a positive experience.

What is the difference between Recreation Assistant vs Recreation Coordinator?

AspectRecreation AssistantRecreation Coordinator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; CPR/First Aid certifications often requiredSame as Recreation Assistant; additional experience may be preferred
Work EnvironmentCommunity centers, parks, recreational facilitiesSimilar settings, often overseeing programs and staff
Employer & IndustryMunicipalities, community organizations, parks departmentsMunicipalities, nonprofit organizations, recreation departments
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles, responsibilities, and qualificationsLooking for roles with more responsibility and program oversight

The main difference between a Recreation Assistant and a Recreation Coordinator lies in their level of responsibility. Recreation Assistants typically support recreational programs and activities under supervision, while Recreation Coordinators oversee program planning, staff management, and larger projects. Both roles often require similar certifications and work in comparable environments, but the Coordinator position generally involves more leadership and organizational duties.

What is a recreation assistant?

A recreation assistant is a staff member who helps plan, organize, and supervise recreational activities and programs for community members or facility users. They often work in parks, community centers, or sports facilities and may require knowledge of safety procedures and customer service skills. The role typically involves assisting with event setup, engaging participants, and ensuring a positive experience for all attendees.

What skills do you need to be a recreation assistant?

A recreation assistant needs strong communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with the public and team members. Organizational abilities, knowledge of recreational activities, and basic first aid certification are also important for planning programs and ensuring safety. Physical stamina and flexibility are often required to assist with activities and outdoor events.

What are the most commonly searched types of Recreation jobs in Oregon?

The most popular types of Recreation jobs in Oregon are:

What are popular job titles related to Recreation Assistant jobs in Oregon?

For Recreation Assistant jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Recreation Assistant jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Recreation Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Recreation Assistant job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,954 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Recreation Employment - Preschool Aide (Recreation Associate) - Talent Pool

City of Portland, OR

Portland, OR โ€ข On-site

$20.59 - $26.60/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Salary: $20.59 - $26.60 Hourly
Location : Multiple Locations, OR
Job Type: Casual
Job Number: 2026-00648
Bureau: Portland Parks & Recreation
Opening Date: 07/06/2026
Closing Date: 12/28/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
The Position
Join Portland Park's Recreation Preschool for All Team and Connect with Our Community!
We're collecting names of people who are interested in working future part-time or seasonal jobs with Portland Parks. This doesn't mean there's a job open right now, but we're happy you're interested! We might not contact you right away. When jobs do open, we will connect you if you're selected for an interview.
Job Summary:
We are hiring for the 2026-2027 school year.
Become a preschool assistant or a preschool substitute with Portland Parks Preschool, a Preschool for All Provider. In this role, you will work in classrooms with children aged 3-5 years. We are looking for individuals who enjoy working with kids and have an understanding of social emotional learning for preschool age students. Additionally, speaking a second language is beneficial.
Your Role
  • Plan and lead various activities like arts, crafts, music, performance, science, games, nature, and sports
  • Support the physical, social, and cognitive development of preschool-aged participants.
  • Toileting and diaper changing support
  • Nap time support
  • Meal and snack support; an active food handlers certificate will be required
  • Supporting dual language learners
  • Supporting children with disabilities and/or learning differences
  • Maintain a safe environment and respond to challenging behaviors in a kind and positive manner.
  • Maintain accurate program records,
  • Represent Portland Parks & Recreation with a positive attitude
  • Work directly with children individually, in small and large groups under the direction of a Lead Teacher.
  • Provide classroom management and facilitate the social and emotional development of children
  • Provide in the moment coaching for students to gain skills in conflict resolution, skills to improve peer social relationships and emotional regulation.
  • Contributes to the creation of an environment that reflects the values and norms of the diverse children and families we serve
  • Attend and participate in staff meetings, planning meetings, and regular training.
  • Facilitate open communication and promote group problem solving
  • Relate in a positive, nurturing way and be sensitive to the needs of children and their families.
  • Medication administration (i.e., Epi pen, inhaler)
  • Maintenance of center facilities, equipment, and materials.
  • Support changing diapers and soiled clothes
Preschool runs Monday-Friday. Full day and half day shifts are available between 8:45am-3:15pm. Assistants may be assigned to a regular site but may be needed to help cover shifts at other program locations.
Note: This is a talent pool and is collecting a list of people who are interested in the job. When a job opens, we will look at your application to decide who to invite for an interview.
Job Type: Casual, Part-time. This job is titled Preschool Assistant, but the City of Portland officially calls it a Recreation Associate.
Schedule: This job has flexible hours and might include working during the day, evenings, weekends, or holidays. The number of hours you work each week can change based on program needs, and there is no guarantee of work hours each week.
Location: These jobs are at different Community Centers around Portland. When you apply you can choose as many Community Centers as you want to work at.
Benefits: This job has limited benefits. Click the Benefits tab for more information.
Language Pay: If you speak another language besides English and use it to help the community, you may get extra pay. To learn more, click
Union: This job is a part of (LiUNA) Labors' Local 483 - Recreation. You will start at the entry-level pay rate. To view the labor agreement, please click
How to Apply:
  • Click "APPLY" to submit your application online.
  • You need to answer the supplemental questions and fill out your work history.
  • If you are a Veteran and want preference, attach your Veteran documents.

Recreation Associate Pay:
Training Pay is $20.59 for all Recreation Associate jobs.
Preschool Aide base pay is $20.59 - $24.03 (entry is $20.59)
Preschool Aide premium pay is $23.16-$26.60 (entry is $23.16)
  • Employees working as Teacher's Assistants in classrooms during the 2026-2027 program year, will receive a premium of $2.57 per hour for Preschool Specialty premium on all hours worked in preschool classrooms. For more information, please
  • The premium pay range listed includes the $2.57 premium.

About Us: Portland Parks & Recreation is dedicated to making sure everyone can enjoy our parks and services, no matter what their background. We value diversity and are committed to equity and inclusion. We encourage people who speak English and other languages to apply.
Contact Information:Loan Tran Polanco, Senior Recruiter
To Qualify
Qualifications Needed:
  1. Be friendly and welcoming.
  2. Communicate well with different people.
  3. Be able to handle safety and emergency situations.
  4. Be able to solve problems and help customers with their concerns.

Applicant must also:
  • Possess or obtain a Food handler card (), within three weeks of hire.
  • Education Requirements and Waivers Requests

All interested applicants are encouraged to apply, regardless of current educational experience. Once hired, staff are expected to meet the following education and Oregon Registry Online (ORO) Step requirements (), or employers submit a Waiver Request *:
Current requirements: Step 4 on the Oregon Registry Online (ORO)
After 2 years of participating in Preschool for All: Step 5 on the Oregon Registry Online (ORO)
By 2030, Preschool for All will require: Step 7 on the Oregon Registry Online (ORO) or a Preschool Child Development Associate (CDA)
* Educational Waiver Requests: Providers can submit a Waiver Request for any staff member that does not currently meet the requirements. Staff who do not currently meet the minimum requirements must work with their Supervisor to determine how they are going to reach the required level within two years of employment.
The Recruitment Process
Hiring Process:
Step 1: Apply online between July 6, 2026 - December 28, 2026.
Step 2: We will review your application to see if you meet the minimum needs for this role.
Step 3: If you qualify, you will be placed on a talent pool list of eligible candidates.
Step 4: We will contact eligible candidates for interviews as positions become available.
Step 5: Job offers will be made after interviews.
Step 6: The start date will be set once all hiring conditions are met.
Additional Information
Click here for additional information regarding the following:
  • City of Portland Core Values
  • Recruitment Process - Work Status
  • Equal Employment Opportunity
  • Veteran Preference
  • ADA, Pregnancy, and Religious Accommodations

An Equal Opportunity Employer
This summary outlines the benefit programs, actual benefits may vary depending on bargaining unit and employment status.
The City of Portland offers a comprehensive benefit package that is competitive with other private and public sector employers.
More detailed information can be obtained by calling the Health & Financial Benefits Office at 503-823-6031.
Health Care (Medical, Vision and Dental)
Casual employees can become eligible for health benefits (medical, dental & vision) through Affordable Care Act (ACA) employer provisions if they meet the necessary paid hours requirement, as determined by the Health & Financial Benefits Office.
Retirement
Membership in the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS)/Oregon Public Service Retirement Plan (OPSRP)
The City currently pays the employee's share of the retirement contribution.
Employees who are OPSRP members are vested after five years of contributions or when they reach age 65 (age 60 for police and fire.)
Sick Leave
Casual employees accrue sick leave as outlined in the City of Portland protected sick time law.
Family Medical Leave
In accordance with federal and state law, and the City policy for family medical leave, the City grants family and medical leave to eligible employees for certain family and medical related reasons.
01
Thank you for your interest in working with the City of Portland! We appreciate your time and want to make sure your application process goes smoothly. The questions that follow are important because they help us see if you meet the basic requirements of the job.
Your answers to these questions really matter. They give us information we need to know about your qualifications, ability, and availability.
Note: If you are asking for Veterans' Preference, please attach a copy of your DD2-14 and/or Benefit letter. Make sure all documents are uploaded by the deadline mentioned in this job posting.
Have you read and understood everything above?
  • Yes
  • No - If you have any questions, please contact the recruiter on the announcement.

02
Where did you first learn about this job opportunity? (If on a website or job board, please specify which one)
03
The City of Portland receives public records requests at times. Please indicate which response you find appropriate:(Answer will not disqualify you from the process)
  • My application was submitted with the understanding that the City of Portland would keep the information confidential and would only disclose the information if ordered to do so. I would not have submitted this application without the promise of confidentiality.
  • You may release my application; I am waiving confidentiality.

04
Have you worked for Portland Parks & Recreation before?
  • Yes
  • No

05
If you answered 'Yes' to question 4, please indicate what position you held with Portland Parks & Recreation and when you were in that position.
06
Please indicate your age.
  • I am 18 years old or older
  • I am under 18 years old. (This will disqualify you from this recruitment.)

07
Preschool Hours are Monday-Friday and can range from 8:45am-3:15pm. What shifts are you interested in? Please select the options that you can do.
  • Full Day: 8:45am-3:15pm
  • Half Day Mornings: 8:45am-12:30pm
  • Half Day Afternoons: 12:00pm-3:15pm

08
Choose the location(s) where you'd like to work. You can pick more than one.
  • Charles Jordan Community Center - 9009 N Foss Ave
  • East Portland Community Center - 740 SE 106th Ave
  • Matt Dishman Community Center - 77 NE Knott St
  • Montavilla Community Center - 8219 NE Glisan St
  • Mt. Scott Community Center - 5530 SE 72nd Ave
  • Peninsula Park Community Center- 700 N Rosa Parks Way
  • Southwest Community Center - 6820 SW 45th Ave
  • St. Johns Community Center - 8427 N Central St
  • Woodstock Community Center - 5905 SE 43rd Ave

09
This position may require help covering shifts at other locations. Please indicate the locations you are able to travel to. You can pick more than one.
  • Charles Jordan Community Center - 9009 N Foss Ave
  • East Portland Community Center - 740 SE 106th Ave
  • Matt Dishman Community Center - 77 NE Knott St
  • Montavilla Community Center - 8219 NE Glisan St
  • Mt. Scott Community Center - 5530 SE 72nd Ave
  • Peninsula Park Community Center- 700 N Rosa Parks Way
  • Southwest Community Center - 6820 SW 45th Ave
  • St. Johns Community Center - 8427 N Central St
  • Woodstock Community Center - 5905 SE 43rd Ave

10
Please describe your experience working with youth in an educational setting, including the ages of participants. Experience can include employment and/or personal experience.
11
I understand this is a talent pool to gather interest, and there are no set dates for interviews or hiring. I know I will only be contacted if a job opens, and that might take some time.
  • Yes, I understand that I will only be contacted when positions are available.
  • No, I do not understand. (Please contact the recruiter on this application for assistance).

12
If you can speak, read, or write in a language other than English, please tell us which one(s). Let us know if you can speak, read, and/or write in that language. If this does not apply to you, type N/A.
13
Please include your pronouns (optional).
Required Question