Out-of-School Youth Program Specialist in Bedford Park, Illinois at Bedford Park District

Department: Recreation
Status: Part-Time, $16 Hourly
Reports To: Recreation Supervisor
Schedule: Approximately 15 hours per week, with the potential for up to 25 hours based on department needs.

Position Summary

The Out-of-School Youth Program Specialist provides instruction, supervision, and activity leadership for elementary school-aged children during KidZone and programs held when school is not in session.

This position works closely with the Recreation Supervisor and other instructors to create safe, organized, engaging programs. The employee will also assist with planning, preparation, supply organization, community outreach, and special events.

This is not a supervisory or management position.

Schedule

The regular KidZone schedule is:

Monday through Friday, 2:30–5:15 p.m.

Additional hours may be scheduled for:

• Program planning and preparation
• Cleaning and supply inventory
• Meetings with the Recreation Supervisor
• School break and days-off programs
• Family events and special programs
• Community outreach and program promotion

Some additional hours may be flexible. Occasional daytime, evening, or weekend availability may be required.

Essential Duties

• Supervise and actively engage elementary school-aged participants.
• Plan and lead age-appropriate games, crafts, recreational activities, and special programs.
• Maintain a safe, welcoming, and organized program environment.
• Follow attendance, dismissal, behavior, safety, and emergency procedures.
• Communicate participant concerns, incidents, and family questions to the Recreation Supervisor.
• Work cooperatively with other instructors and share program responsibilities.
• Prepare program spaces, materials, and supplies before activities.
• Assist with cleaning, organization, and supply inventory.
• Help plan programs offered on school holidays, institute days, and seasonal breaks.
• Attend regularly scheduled meetings with the Recreation Supervisor.
• Support efforts to meet minimum enrollment and, when possible, reach program capacity.
• Assist with approved community outreach and program promotion.
• Provide friendly and professional communication to participants, families, coworkers, and community members.
• Assist with family events and other recreation programs as assigned.

Position Expectations

The employee is expected to:

• Be dependable, punctual, and prepared for each shift.
• Remain actively involved with participants.
• Work respectfully and effectively as part of a team.
• Take initiative while following the direction of the Recreation Supervisor.
• Adapt when schedules, enrollment, activities, or participant needs change.
• Maintain professional boundaries and protect confidential information.
• Keep program rooms, equipment, and storage areas clean and organized.
• Represent the Bedford Park District positively.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Previous experience working with children.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification or willing to obtain.
• Ability to plan and lead activities for elementary school-aged children.
• Strong communication, teamwork, organization, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work Monday through Friday from 2:30–5:15 p.m.
• Availability for additional hours based on program / department needs.

Physical Requirements

The employee must be able to supervise active indoor and outdoor activities, stand and move for extended periods, set up and put away program materials, and lift up to 40 pounds.

Employment may be contingent upon successful completion of applicable background checks, reference checks, and required Bedford Park District training.

This description outlines the primary responsibilities of the position. Duties and scheduled hours may change based on enrollment, the school calendar, and department needs.