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Activity Instructor Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Peoria Park District

STEAM Activity Leader

Peoria, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $17/hr

Under the supervision of the Education Manager - Proctor and the STEAM Instructor, the STEAM activity leader will be responsible for the following: The STEAM Lab features activities in Science ...

Spenga

Fitness Instructor

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$35 - $55/hr

Position Summary: Our instructors are important in not only leading an incredible fitness ... Team building activities and social events * Community driven focus * Also, additional perks!

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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 6, 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.

STEAM Activity Leader

Peoria Park District

Peoria, IL • On-site

$15.50 - $17/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

DUTIES: Under the supervision of the Education Manager - Proctor and the STEAM Instructor, the STEAM activity leader will be responsible for the following:

The STEAM Lab features activities in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math.

Assist the Education Manager and STEAM Instructor in implementing lessons, as well as plan lessons for other leaders to implement.

Lead and/or assist implementation of lessons.

Provide supply requests to the Education Manager in advance, as needed, to replace used inventory and to implement new lessons and activities.

Manage STEAM Lab equipment, supplies, and furniture.

Assist the Education Manager, as needed, with DREAM2 programming and implementation.

Following all safety procedures that pertain to the duties performed. Supporting all aspects of the Park District's safety program.

Performing all other duties as assigned.

ESSENTIALFUNCTIONS: The work requires some physical exertion in handling supplies and materials relevant to programming.Prolonged standing, bending, and stooping. Ability to understand and complete paperwork and record keeping in order to complete duties. Ability to operate computer, copy machine, scanner, etc. Ability to lift up to 50lbs

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education: High School/College

Experience: Experience in leading or participating in recreational and or educational programming.

Knowledge and Ability:

Knowledge and interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.

Interest in trades or engineering, and the ability to learn to use tools to fix and make things.

Interest in working with children and families and ability to communicate verbally with children and adults.

Ability to follow instructions, be an effective listener, and share feedback.

Ability to apply critical thinking & problem-solving.

Ability to be professional, respectful, accountable, innovative, safe, and equitable to both internal and external customers.

The Peoria Park District hires without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, pregnancy, military status or unfavorable discharge from military service, protected veteran status, or on the basis of any characteristic protected by law.

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

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