Job Description

Title: Program & Event Coordinator – (Special Olympics)

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS: Coordinate and facilitate the development, implementation and evaluation of Special Olympic programs and Special Events. General work area is dependent on the program specific environment which includes both indoor and outdoor settings. Performs related duties as required.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Plans, implements and instructs citywide Special Olympics programs for children and adults with disabilities (blind/low vision and physical disabilities).
• Meet with key individuals from partner organizations to define tasks and timelines, gather and disseminate information and execute projects, programs and events.
• Prepares reports and promotional materials for programs and events.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Training and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation, Physical Education or related field plus three years of related experience; or an equivalent combination of training and experience is required
• Preferred Work experience with individuals with disabilities specific to Special Olympics or Paralympic Sports. One year of supervisory experience. Certified Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP) or Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS).

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Goodknowledge of athletic, leisure and recreational principles and theories as they apply to therapeutic recreation.
• Knowledge of teaching methods and techniques used to instruct individuals with disabilities.
• Ability to understand and implement elements of community-based programming.
• Strong interpersonal, oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks.
• High level of organizational and planning skills.
• Ability to evaluate programs based on value to program participants and industry standards.
• Evidence of customer service focus practices.

BENEFITS: 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:

• +$1.00/hour increase on 1/1/2026.
• +$1.00/hour increase on 1/1/2027.
• 1 day of personal leave at the commencement of each quarter, accrued on a pro rata basis.
• 2 days of sick leave at the commencement of each quarter, accrued on a pro rata basis.
• After one year of employment, employees who work 1,040 hours or more in the previous year are typically eligible for between 7-10 workdays of paid vacation time annually, and additional time after first 5 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, a system covered by the State of Illinois' Reciprocal Act.
• Free Admission to most Chicago Museums.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:

General work area is indoors/outdoors, in a smoke-free environment, with controlled temperature and fluorescent lighting. Perform tasks that involve use of hands to finger, handle or feel, reaching, walking, bending, stooping, standing, kneeling, climbing, reaching and sitting. This position requires continuous sitting at a desk. Drives motorized vehicle to travel to different locations. Performs lifting tasks up to 25 pounds.

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: $79,277.60 /Annually

Local 00: Career Service EEO: Paraprofessional FLSA: Exempt

Updated 06/2025