
Title: Recreation Leader
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS: Under direct supervision, provides assistance to staff in planning and conducting cultural and recreational activities. Performs related duties as required.
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Training and Experience: Graduation from high school or an equivalent certification (GED) is required but may be waived where the applicant otherwise demonstrates qualification for the job, including, but not limited to relevant work experience with the Park District.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Basic knowledge of competitive sports (i.e. basketball, baseball, track, etc.), techniques. Effective oral communication skills. Ability to enforce safety rules. Ability to lead physical, recreational and leisure activities.
AVAILABLE POSITIONS:
Please note: The boundaries of the Central Region extend from North Avenue at 1600 North to the southern boundary of 51st Street. The eastern boundary is Lake Michigan, while the western boundary is Harlem Avenue, all within the City of Chicago. Available positions may vary based on current vacancies, and all positions are subject to budgetary approval.
For more information about the Central Region boundaries, please click the link below to access the map.
BENEFITS: As a part-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:
RATE OF PAY: $22.00 per hour
SEIU Local 73 Career Service EEO: Para-professional FLSA: Non-Exempt

The Chicago Park District owns more than 8,700 acres of green space, making it the largest municipal park manager in the nation. The Chicago Park District’s 597 parks offer thousands of sports and physical activities as well as cultural and environmental programs for youth, adults, and seniors. The Chicago Park District is also responsible for 26 indoor pools, 51 outdoor pools, and 26 miles of lakefront including 23 swimming beaches plus one inland beach. From canoeing to batting cages to arts and crafts, there is never a shortage of activities to participate in Chicago’s parks.
The Chicago Park District oversees the Garfield Park and Lincoln Park conservatories, two tropical paradises within the city that house thousands of rare and exotic plants. Popular attractions that fall under the management of the Chicago Park District include the Clarence Buckingham Memorial Fountain. Proudly referred to as Chicago's front yard, Grant Park is among the city's loveliest and most prominent parks. Ten world-class museums are located on Chicago Park District property.
On October 14, 2014 the Chicago Park District received the 2014 National Gold Medal Award
for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management. This award is presented by the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA).
The Chicago Park District's mission is:
- To enhance the quality of life in Chicago by becoming the leading provider of recreation and leisure opportunities
- To provide safe, inviting and beautifully maintained parks and facilities
- To create a customer-focused and responsive park system