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After School Program Instructor Jobs in Illinois

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After School Program Instructor information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an after school program instructor?

To thrive as an After School Program Instructor, you need experience working with children, a basic understanding of child development, and often a relevant degree or certification in education or youth services. Familiarity with classroom management software, activity planning tools, and first aid certification are commonly required. Patience, creativity, strong communication, and adaptability help you engage students and foster a positive learning environment. These skills ensure that instructors can effectively support students' academic and social growth while maintaining a safe, enriching program.

What is the difference between After School Program Instructor vs Youth Activities Coordinator?

AspectAfter School Program InstructorYouth Activities Coordinator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require CPR/First AidHigh school diploma; experience in youth programs often preferred
Work EnvironmentSchools, community centers, after-school programsCommunity centers, recreational facilities, youth organizations
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, non-profits, after-school providersRecreation departments, youth service agencies, non-profits

While both roles involve working with youth in community or educational settings, the After School Program Instructor primarily focuses on supervising and engaging children during after-school hours, often following a set curriculum. The Youth Activities Coordinator typically plans, organizes, and manages a variety of youth programs and events, often with broader responsibilities in program development and community outreach.

What are some common challenges faced by after school program instructors, and how are they typically addressed?

After School Program Instructors often encounter challenges such as managing diverse groups of students with varying needs and energy levels after a long school day. Balancing structured activities with flexibility is key, as students may require both guidance and space to unwind. It’s common to collaborate with other instructors and staff to develop engaging lesson plans and address behavioral issues promptly and positively. Open communication with parents and school officials also helps ensure each child’s needs are met and fosters a supportive environment for both students and staff.

What does an after school program instructor do?

An After School Program Instructor supervises and engages students in activities outside regular school hours. Their responsibilities typically include planning educational or recreational activities, helping with homework, ensuring student safety, and fostering a positive and inclusive environment. They often work with children of various ages, supporting their social, emotional, and academic growth. Instructors also communicate with parents and school staff to coordinate programming and address any concerns. The role requires strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Program Instructor jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Program Instructor jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for After School Program Instructor jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most After School Program Instructor job openings:

After School Program Instructor jobs near you

Substitute After School Program Instructor

City of Evanston

Evanston, IL • On-site

Temporary

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Parks, Recreation & Community Services - Seasonal
Date Posted:
7/29/2026
Location:
Various Locations
Date Available:
09/08/2026
Closing Date:
04/05/2027
Substitute After School Program Instructor
Nature of Work
Under the general supervision of the Recreation Program Coordinator or designated supervisor, the Substitute After School Program Instructor provides safe, engaging, and developmentally appropriate recreational and enrichment programming for school-age children. This position serves on an as-needed basis and is called upon to work in the absence of the regularly scheduled After School Program Instructor or Lead Instructor. Work assignments are based on program staffing needs, employee absences, and operational requirements.
The Substitute After School Program Instructor is responsible for maintaining a safe, inclusive, and positive environment while supporting the daily operation of the after-school program and ensuring participants receive quality recreational and educational experiences.
Essential Functions
  • Serve as the substitute instructor for the After School Program when the Instructor or Lead Instructor is unavailable.
  • Supervise children at all times to ensure a safe and positive environment.
  • Lead and facilitate age-appropriate recreational, educational, cultural, arts and crafts, STEM, sports, homework assistance, and enrichment activities.
  • Follow established daily schedules, lesson plans, and program procedures while adapting activities as necessary to meet participant needs.
  • Foster positive relationships with participants, parents, staff, volunteers, and the public.
  • Promote inclusion, teamwork, respect, and positive behavior through effective classroom and behavior management techniques.
  • Enforce program rules, safety standards, and City policies consistently and professionally.
  • Assist with participant attendance, sign-in/sign-out procedures, and required documentation.
  • Prepare, organize, distribute, and maintain program supplies and equipment.
  • Maintain clean, organized, and safe activity spaces before, during, and after programming.
  • Monitor participants during indoor and outdoor activities, field trips, snack time, and transitions.
  • Respond appropriately to emergencies, accidents, injuries, illnesses, and behavioral incidents in accordance with City policies and procedures.
  • Complete accident, incident, and behavioral reports as required.
  • Attend required trainings, meetings, and orientations.
  • Perform other duties as assigned in support of the Parks, Recreation & Community Services Department.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Knowledge of recreation, education, or child development principles appropriate for school-age children.
  • Ability to supervise groups of children while maintaining a safe, structured, and engaging environment.
  • Ability to effectively manage participant behavior using positive reinforcement and conflict resolution techniques.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with children, parents, coworkers, and the public.
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment and make appropriate decisions during routine and emergency situations.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while following established procedures.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, participants, families, and community members.
  • Ability to demonstrate professionalism, dependability, flexibility, and excellent customer service.

Minimum Qualifications
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Previous experience working with children in recreation programs, schools, camps, childcare, or youth organizations is preferred.
  • Current CPR, First Aid, and AED certification, or the ability to obtain certification within a specified timeframe.
  • Successful completion of a criminal background investigation and all required child safety screenings prior to employment.

Physical Requirements
The employee must be able to:
  • Stand, walk, bend, kneel, and actively participate in recreational activities for extended periods.
  • Lift and carry supplies and equipment weighing up to 30 pounds.
  • Work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.
  • Respond quickly and appropriately during emergencies.

Working Conditions
Work is performed in recreation facilities, schools, parks, playgrounds, gyms, and other City facilities. The position requires frequent interaction with children, parents, staff, and the public and may involve exposure to moderate noise levels and varying weather conditions.
Schedule
This is a part-time, seasonal, substitute position. Hours are not guaranteed and are assigned on an as-needed basis to cover staff absences, vacations, illnesses, training, and other operational needs. Typical work hours are weekday afternoons during the school year, with occasional opportunities during school holidays, institute days, early dismissal days, and special events.
Core Competencies
  • Customer Service
  • Safety Awareness
  • Communication
  • Teamwork and Collaboration
  • Accountability
  • Dependability
  • Adaptability
  • Initiative
  • Professionalism
  • Problem Solving

Pay Rate ; $16/hour
To apply for this position, please apply online at www.cityofevanston.org on or before the closing date.
Chosen candidates will be required to provide proof of licenses, certifications, and education required for this position. Candidates will also be subject to qualifying pre-employment processes drug/alcohol screen, employment verification, and criminal background check
The City of Evanston is an equal opportunity employer and ensures against discrimination in employment on the basis of a person's race, color, sex, age, religion, disability, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, military discharge status, source of income, housing status, or gender identity. The City of Evanston is also committed to accessibility for persons with disabilities. Any person needing mobility or communications access assistance should contact Human Resources at 847-448-8204 (voice) or 847-866-5095 (TTY)

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