Job Description

This position is covered by the collective bargaining agreement between the Chicago Park District and the Service Employees International Union Local 73. Pursuant to the collective bargaining agreement, the District will exhaust internal eligible applicants prior to considering external applicants. The District is assembling a list of qualified candidates for this position that will be considered should the position not be filled with internal eligible applicants.

TITLE: Artcraft Instructor

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS:

Under general supervision, responsible for developing, teaching and leading artcraft activities for the Chicago Park District, in one or more related areas of specialization, including, but not limited to, sewing, ceramics, painting, illustrating and handicrafts. Performs other related duties as assigned.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES:

• Plans and implements a course curriculum for the instruction of artcraft activities in one or more related areas of specialization.
• Provides instruction and supervision for Park District patrons involved in artcraft activities.
• Demonstrates proper techniques and skills for artcraft activities.
• Adapts programs to reflect differing levels of participant skill development.
• Enforces and promotes safety guidelines for artcraft programs.
• Develops, promotes and organizes cultural groups, clubs, displays, exhibits and demonstrations sponsored by the Chicago Park District.
• Collaborates with recreation staff or other Park District personnel on special projects; including day camp programs.
• Encourages creativity in participants.
• Communicates constructively with participants, parents, volunteers and the community.
• Consults with individuals and community groups to determine their recreation interests, needs and desires.
• Issues and maintains an inventory of equipment, tools, supplies and other materials used in artcraft programs.
• Demonstrates and provides instruction in the proper use of equipment, tools and supplies.
• Sets up and prepares Special artcraft projects and equipment.
• Supervises unorganized play and enforces Park District rules and regulations at assigned locations.
• Attends workshops and in-service training seminars.
• Stays abreast of current methods, techniques and trends in artcraft specialties.
• Judges at competitions and special events.
• Performs general administrative duties including but not limited to: assisting in course registration, collection of fees, routine recordkeeping and promoting artcraft programs.
• May solicit fabric and other material donations from local businesses and other organizations.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Training and Experience:

An Associate of Arts degree. or completion of two full years of coursework at an accredited College or University which included a minimum of 20 credit hours in One or more or the following areas, including Art, Fashion, Design, Home Economics or a related area of specialization, or graduation from High School or the equivalent (GED) and three full years of closely related instructional or practical experience in a recreation, cultural or business environment. or an equivalent combination of education and experience, is required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of a variety of artcraft skills and techniques including sewing. drawing, painting, ceramics and two- and three-dimensional design.
• Elementary knowledge of leisure and recreation theories and principles.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Technical knowledge and skill in one or more areas of artcraft specialization.

BENEFITS As a full-time Chicago Park District employee in a position covered by the District’s Agreement with SEIU Local 73, eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Competitive Group Insurance benefits including health, life, dental and vision plans.
• 13-20 days of paid vacation time annually (13 days for first year of employment).
• 12 days of paid sick time annually which carryover year to year.
• 4 paid personal days per year.
• 13 paid holidays per year.
• 12 weeks of paid parental leave (upon meeting FMLA eligibility)
• Pension plan through the Park Employees' and Retirement Board Employees' Annuity and Benefit Fund, a system covered by the State of Illinois' Reciprocal Act.
• Deferred Compensation Program – voluntary supplemental retirement plan.
• Optional pre-tax programs – Transit
• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility.
• Free Admission to most Chicago museums.

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Job duties are to be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.

RATE OF PAY: $68,968.91/ annually

SEIU-Local 73 Career Service EEO: Para-Professional FLSA: Non-Exempt