Program Aide at Illinois Action For Children – Matteson, Illinois

About Illinois Action for Children

Make a Career Move that Makes a Difference

At Illinois Action for Children (IAFC), we believe in creating brighter futures—not just for the children and families we serve, but for the passionate professionals who join our team. As a recognized leader in early childhood education and family support services, IAFC is committed to equity, advocacy, and systemic change. Our work drives meaningful impact across communities—and when you become part of our team, you become part of that mission.

Our Benefits Package is One of the Very Best

We support our employees with a comprehensive, thoughtful benefits package that promotes financial security, personal well-being, work/life balance, and long-term professional growth.

For Your Financial Security:

• Competitive Salaries

• Rewards and Recognition Program

• 401(k) Plan with Employer Match (100% of the first 3%, plus 50% of the next 2%)

• Flexible Spending Accounts (up to $3,200 medical / $5,000 dependent care)

For Your Health and Well-Being:

• BCBS Medical Insurance: IAFC covers 95% of single coverage; multiple plan options

• Dental Insurance: IAFC covers 75% of single coverage

• Voluntary Vision Insurance & Vision Discount Program

• Group Life Insurance (fully covered, $50,000 benefit)

• Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance (IAFC-paid, with generous income replacement)

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Six free counseling sessions per issue

• Supplemental Life and Additional Voluntary Benefits

For True Work/Life Balance:

• Generous PTO Accrual:

  • Year 1: 23 days

  • Year 2: 28 days

  • Year 3 and beyond: 35 days

For Your Future Success:

• Tuition Reimbursement (up to $3,000/year), including tuition, books, lab fees, workshops, and certifications

• Ongoing Training & Professional Development Opportunities

• Career Advancement Pathways Within the Organization

When you join IAFC, you're not just starting a job—you’re joining a mission-driven organization that invests in your growth while empowering you to help others thrive.

About the Role:

The Program Aide plays a vital role in supporting the delivery and administration of social assistance programs within the Matteson community. This position is responsible for assisting program coordinators in organizing activities, managing resources, and ensuring that services are accessible and effective for all participants. The Program Aide acts as a liaison between clients and program staff, helping to facilitate communication and provide necessary information. Through direct interaction with community members, the aide helps identify needs and contributes to the continuous improvement of program offerings. Ultimately, this role ensures that social assistance initiatives run smoothly and achieve their intended positive impact on the community.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• One to three months related experience and/ or training

Responsibilities:

• Assists the cook with preparation of meals as specified on approved menus. In the absence of the cook, assumes required meal preparation duties.
• Completes state required Food Service Sanitation Manager Certification within 30 days of hire. Inventories food services supply and report any items needed.
• Assists classroom staff with classroom activities and routines, according to the lesson plan and classroom schedule.
• Supervises children to maintain a safe classroom environment and supports positive social-emotional development.
• Assists with the department’s recruitment efforts, including but not limited to community events and door-to-door canvassing.

Skills:

The Program Aide utilizes strong communication skills daily to interact effectively with program participants and team members, ensuring clear and compassionate exchanges. Organizational skills are essential for managing schedules, maintaining records, and coordinating resources to support program activities efficiently. Problem-solving abilities help the aide address participant concerns and adapt to changing program needs. Proficiency with office software enables the aide to document activities accurately and prepare reports for supervisors. Additionally, interpersonal skills foster a welcoming environment that encourages community engagement and trust.

How This Aligns with Our Mission:

At our core, we’re all about catalyzing change by developing strong families and powerful communities. As a teacher with us, you’ll play a pivotal role in this mission by shaping the minds of the next generation while also being a positive force in the lives of their families. You’re not just teaching—you’re helping to create a ripple effect that strengthens entire communities where children truly matter most.

While we desire for this job posting to be comprehensive, all aspects of the position may be amended at any time at the discretion of IAFC including job duties, work location and/or work schedule.

IL Action for Children is EEO/M/F/V/D employer.

Starting salary range: $32,900- $41,600