Special Recreation Leader (H) Part-time (Citywide) Davis Square

Chicago Park District • Chicago, IL

12d • Onsite

About The Position

Under direct supervision, the Special Recreation Leader assists staff in conducting recreational activities for children and adults with disabilities during day camp operations and performs related duties as required. The position may be based at one of several Chicago Park District locations, including Davis Square, with each listed location budgeted for up to 25 hours per week.

The role supports therapeutic recreation programs, day camp activities, field trips, and recreation equipment use. The position is part-time and pays $22.00 per hour.

Requirements

• One year of experience working with individuals with disabilities.
• Knowledge of competitive sports programs for people with disabilities.
• Effective oral communication skills.
• Ability to enforce safety rules.
• Ability to lead physical, recreational, and leisure activities.
• Basic swimming skills.
• Ability to exercise good judgment.

Nice To Haves

• Graduation from high school or equivalent certification (GED) is recommended.

Responsibilities

• Assist staff with individuals with disabilities in therapeutic recreation programs at day camps.
• Spot for tumbling and gymnastics.
• Lead and participate in drills and agility exercises.
• May accompany groups of children on field trips to educational institutions or public functions, including local and state Special Olympics events.
• Assist with unorganized play and athletic activities at day camps, and encourage and enforce safety standards.
• Issue and collect recreational equipment supplied for public use.
• Assist therapeutic recreation staff in conducting simple arts, crafts, drama, music, physical, and other recreational activities.
• Read to children and teach simple drawing, songs, and painting.

Benefits

• $1.00 per hour increase on January 1, 2026.
• $1.00 per hour increase on January 1, 2027.
• One day of personal leave at the commencement of each quarter, accrued on a pro rata basis.
• Two days of sick leave at the commencement of each quarter, accrued on a pro rata basis.
• After one year of employment, employees who worked 1,040 hours or more in the previous year are typically eligible for 7–10 workdays of paid vacation annually, with additional time after the first five years of employment.
• 12 weeks of paid parental leave upon meeting FMLA eligibility requirements.
• Pension plan through the Park Employees' and Retirement Board Employees' Annuity and Benefit Fund.
• Free admission to most Chicago museums.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED