Overview
Youth Program Assistant (Pre-K & Gym Coach) Jobs in Portland, OR at Irvington Extended Day
Job Overview
Join our vibrant youth development team as a Youth Program Assistant specializing in Pre-K activities and gym coaching! This dynamic role offers an exciting opportunity to inspire young children through engaging educational and physical activities.
We are seeking a dependable, energetic, and flexible team member to support both our Pre-K program during the school year and lead structured sports and activities during summer camp. This is a hybrid role that combines early childhood classroom support, gym/activity leadership, and summer camp programming.
Duties
School-Year (Pre-K Focus)
- Support lead Pre-K teachers in classrooms serving children ages 3.5–5
- Lead and facilitate age appropriate Pre-K educational activities that promote early learning, social skills, and creativity
- Assist with daily routines including meals, outdoor play, transitions, and learning centers
- Provide break coverage and support classroom flow as a floater/gym lead
- Design and implement engaging gym sessions that incorporate sports coaching, physical education
- Supervise children during recreational activities, ensuring safety and proper behavior management at all times
- Support social-emotional development and classroom behavior guidance
- Contribute to a calm, respectful, and structured early childhood environment
Summer Camp (Gym & Activities Lead)
- Lead and organize daily sports based activities for children ages 4–12
- Run structured games, movement activities, and group challenges
- Support large group management (up to 40 children at times)
- Assist with camp transitions, schedules, and activity setup/cleanup
- Collaborate with Camp Director to ensure safe, engaging programming
Key Responsibilities
- Maintain safety and supervision of children at all times
- Support both preschool and school age programs as needed
- Follow daily schedules, routines, and staff assignments
- Assist with setup, cleanup, and preparation of materials
- Communicate clearly with leadership regarding children, families, or program needs
- Model professionalism, positivity, and teamwork at all times
- Respond appropriately to behavior, safety, and medical needs (including allergies)
Experience
- Prior experience working with young children in childcare, teaching, or youth program settings is highly preferred
- Demonstrated knowledge of physical education principles and sports coaching techniques
- Experience in martial arts such as Karate or Judo, or in swimming instruction is advantageous
- Lifeguard certification is a plus; candidates with swimming or health club experience are encouraged to apply
- Strong background in behavior management strategies to effectively guide children’s conduct in group settings
- Familiarity with working in a gym or health club environment is beneficial
- Passion for working with students of diverse backgrounds and abilities to promote inclusive participation
Qualifications
Required:
- Experience working with children in either early childhood or school age programs
- Ability to lead groups of children in structured activities
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, flexible environment
- Reliable, punctual, and proactive attitude
Preferred:
- Experience in sports, coaching, physical education, or recreation programs
- Experience in licensed childcare or early childhood education settings
- Familiarity with mixed-age group management (4–12 years old)
State Requirements
- Enrollment in the Oregon Central Background Registry (required before start date)
- CPR/First Aid certification (or ability to obtain within 90 days)
- Food Handler’s Card (within 90 days)
- Completion of required childcare safety trainings
Physical Requirements
- Ability to actively supervise children indoors and outdoors
- Ability to stand, move, run games, and engage in physical activity
- Ability to lift up to 40 lbs
- Comfort working in both classroom and outdoor environments
Compensation & Benefits
- $22–$24/hour, depending on education and experience
- Monthly employer contribution toward health insurance
- Opportunity for advancement within a growing nonprofit organization
- 401K Matching
- Paid time off
- Paid Holidays (5)
About IED
Irvington Extended Day (IED) is a nonprofit childcare organization providing a full-day Pre-K program, full-time summer camp, and afterschool care. Irvington Extended Day is committed to providing a safe, engaging, and enriching environment where children can grow creatively, emotionally, and academically. We believe in teamwork, strong relationships, and creating a space where both children and staff thrive.
If you are interested, please reply with your resume & cover letter.
Pay: $20.00 – $24.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Paid training
Work Location: In person
Title: Youth Program Assistant (Pre-K & Gym Coach)
Company: Irvington Extended Day
Location: Portland, OR
