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Activity Instructor Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

After School Matters

Gardening Instructor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $27/hr

The program will allow students to learn and engage in activities specific to the content area. An instructor will expose teens to a wide range of activities and concepts to meet measurable ...

After School Matters

Gardening Instructor

Chicago, IL · On-site

The program will allow students to learn and engage in activities specific to the content area. An instructor will expose teens to a wide range of activities and concepts to meet measurable ...

Niles Park District

Hockey Instructor

Niles, IL · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Maintain good communication with parents and keep them informed of activities and child's progress ... Instructors need to make sure they are available to do this. * If the instructor is home for summer ...

Niles Park District

Hockey Instructor

Niles, IL · On-site

$20/hr

Maintain good communication with parents and keep them informed of activities and child's progress ... Instructors need to make sure they are available to do this. * If the instructor is home for summer ...

Spartan Education

FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. Supervisory Responsibilities This job has no supervisory responsibilities. However, Flight Instructors are ...

Langara

Instructor, Explore Program

Campus, IL · Hybrid

$45/hr

... activities. Instructors are responsible for delivering the course as described in the Explore Program overview. This includes preparing materials that fulfil the course objectives; planning lessons ...

After School Matters

Welding Instructor

Chicago, IL · On-site

The program will allow students to learn and engage in activities specific to the content area. An instructor will expose teens to a wide range of activities and concepts to meet measurable program ...

After School Matters

Welding Instructor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21 - $35/hr

The program will allow students to learn and engage in activities specific to the content area. An instructor will expose teens to a wide range of activities and concepts to meet measurable program ...

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Activity Instructor information

See Illinois salary details

$5

$16

$31

How much do activity instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for activity instructor in Illinois is $16.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.44 and $16.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an activity instructor?

Activity Instructors are professionals who lead, organize, and supervise various recreational, educational, or sporting activities for groups of people. They often work at camps, community centers, schools, or fitness facilities, guiding participants through activities such as arts and crafts, sports, outdoor adventures, or team-building exercises. Their responsibilities include planning sessions, ensuring safety, providing instruction, and fostering a fun and inclusive environment. Activity Instructors typically need strong communication and leadership skills, as well as expertise in the specific activities they teach.

What are some common challenges activity instructors face when working with diverse groups, and how can they be addressed?

Activity Instructors often work with participants of varying ages, skill levels, and backgrounds, which can present challenges in maintaining engagement and ensuring safety for everyone. To address this, instructors must adapt activities to suit different abilities, foster an inclusive environment, and use clear communication to set expectations. Building strong rapport with participants and being flexible in adjusting plans are essential for overcoming these challenges and creating a positive experience for all.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an activity instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Activity Instructor, you need a strong understanding of activity planning, group management, and relevant safety practices, often supported by certifications in first aid and specific activities (e.g., lifeguarding, outdoor education). Familiarity with scheduling tools, safety protocols, and equipment related to the activities you lead is typically required. Excellent communication, leadership, and motivational skills help create a positive and engaging environment for participants. These abilities are crucial to ensuring participant safety, enjoyment, and successful program delivery.

What is the difference between Activity Instructor vs Camp Counselor?

AspectActivity InstructorCamp Counselor
CertificationsCPR, First Aid, activity-specific certificationsCPR, First Aid, general camp training
Work EnvironmentRecreational centers, sports clubs, outdoor programsSummer camps, residential or day camps
Employer & IndustryRecreation facilities, sports organizationsCamp organizations, youth programs
Primary FocusLeading specific activities or sportsSupervising children, managing camp activities

While both roles involve working with children and require CPR and First Aid certifications, Activity Instructors focus on leading specific activities like sports or arts, often in recreational settings. Camp Counselors typically oversee overall camp supervision, including safety and general activities, in summer camp environments. The roles overlap but differ mainly in scope and setting.

Activity Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Activity Instructor job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,297 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Lead Instructor - Penn School (part-time)

Family Focus

Chicago, IL • On-site

$22/hr

Part-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Title: Lead Instructor (Part-time, Seasonal)
Location: Lawndale - Penn Elementary School
Supervisor: Program & Center Director
Family Focus is your partner in building strong families across Chicago and Northeast Illinois! We're here to support families and their children including emergency assistance, immigration programs, child welfare services, family support services, educational programs, and more. Our goal? To help our community thrive and reach its full potential! With 11 centers around Chicagoland, we're eager to expand our reach and make an even bigger impact. That's why we're on the lookout for passionate individuals who share our vision to join our team as we grow and serve more families. Are you ready to make a difference? We want you to be a part of our journey!
The Lead Activity Instructor will prepare and present materials for academic and enrichment instruction according to the Curriculum Alignment Plan that has been established by the Resource Coordinator. To support and enhance the quality of the Sustainable Community School Out of School program through planning and implementation of student-centered program activities. Under the direction of the SCS Resource Coordinator, the program promotes academic achievement and supports the emotional and social development of participants. This is a seasonal school year position.
Duties include, but are not limited to:
  • Develop and instruct K-8th grade participants in academic & enrichment activities.
  • Activities must be interactive, creative, and combine different learning approaches.
  • Lesson plans are due a week prior to instruction.
  • Keep accurate attendance records.
  • Generate and maintain performance portfolios for each participant.
  • Motivate students to increase their performance, attendance, and program retention.
  • Daily classroom activities will integrate teambuilding, cooperative learning, social emotional development, youth and leadership development.
  • Supervise and ensure the safety of program participants virtually (if required) & in person.
  • Participate in faculty and/or school meetings and training as scheduled.
  • Carry out additional job-related duties as may be directed by immediate supervisor.
  • Uphold Family Focus' mission through a high standard of daily performance.

The ideal candidate will have the following education and experience:
  • An Associate or Bachelor's Degree with an emphasis in Human Services, Education or Youth Development is preferred
  • Passion to support children's learning and success in school through a strength based approach.
  • Experience in instructing meaningful elementary aged, hands-on, after school academic projects
  • Teacher and/or volunteer experience in Chicago Public Schools considered a plus.
  • Training in effective classroom management strategies and techniques
  • Ability to work in a team to develop an integrated program
  • Ability to take feedback in the interest of quality program content
  • Basic computer skills - word processing, email, internet research, on-line timesheet
  • Applicants will preferably be a minimum of 21 years of age

Seasonal position: School Year After-School Program
Availability: Monday - Friday between 12:30 pm- 6:30 pm (up to 25 hours/week)
This is a part-time non-exempt position.
Hourly rate: $22 /hour
Discover all the benefits we offer to support your well-being and professional growth here: https://www.family-focus.org/about/careers/
The team at Family Focus is uniquely committed to the success of our participants and the values that unite us: family support, recognition, respect, and honor for each other, delivery of excellence in all we do, and trust in the richness of our diversity. To learn more about Family Focus, visit www.family-focus.org
Family Focus is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Keywords: Teacher, Part-time Instructor, After School, School Year program, Elementary Education.
Pay Range: $22 per hour

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