Whimsy & Wonder Play Cafe Play & Party Host (Experience Attendant) Ankeny, IA · Part time

Apply for Play & Party Host (Experience Attendant)

About Whimsy & Wonder Play Cafe Whimsy & Wonder Play Cafe is Ankeny's newest family destination, combining custom indoor play areas for kids up to age 10 with a modern, high-quality cafe for parents and caregivers. Why We're Different: Elevated Hospitality: We provide a clean, modern, and thoughtfully designed environment where adults can relax while kids engage in imaginative, active play. Clean-Label & Quality Focus: Our cafe emphasizes premium coffee, craft beverages, and high-quality menu options. We believe the right food can help create better behavioral outcomes! Community & Connection: We host memorable private birthday parties, special events, and daily open play, operating with high operational standards and a supportive team culture.

Pre-Opening Phase & Schedule Expectations

• Pre-Opening Month (Onboarding & Setup Phase): Part-time/reduced hours for space setup, toy organization, sanitation protocols, and party walkthroughs.
• Post-Opening Schedule (Regular Operations):
• Type: Part-Time (15–30 hours per week).
• Schedule Expectations: Weekend availability is required (most parties and peak play hours happen on Saturdays and Sundays).

Compensation

• Pay Rate: $13.00 – $16.00 per hour (starting rate based on skill level and experience) + party tips/gratuities.

Ideal Candidate

You are energetic, patient, and love interacting with young kids and parents. You have a sharp eye for keeping spaces clean and organized, enjoy hosting celebrations, and bring great energy to every shift.

Mandatory Prerequisites & Background Requirements

• Age Requirement: Must be at least 16 years of age.
• Mandatory Background Check: Passing federal and state background checks is strictly required prior to hire.
• Certifications: CPR / First Aid certification (or willingness to complete upon hire).

Key Responsibilities

• Play Floor Safety & Supervision: Actively monitor the play floor to ensure safe play and enforce rules (socks-only policy, age guidelines).
• Sanitizing & Tidying: Regularly disinfect toys and high-touch areas with child-safe cleaners, keeping the play floor neat and organized.
• Birthday Party Hosting: Set up party rooms, welcome families, assist with serving snacks/cake, keep parties on schedule, and clean up after events.
• Front Desk Check-In: Greet families, verify waivers, and check guests in on the POS system.
• Cafe Backup: Cross-train to help run drinks and quick bites to tables and clear cafe seating during busy moments.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and move actively for 4–8 hours per shift.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 35 lbs (party bins, toy crates, folding tables).

Shift Examples (subject to change):

Operational Hours - 8am - 6pm (Friday through Monday, more open days will be added)

Opening Shift: 7am - 3pm

Closing Shift: 11am - 7pm

Shorter shifts will be available and assigned as needed.