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Day Program Adults With Disability Jobs in Chicago, IL

DOUGLAS CENTER

Direct Support Professional

Skokie, IL · On-site

$15/hr

... adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in areas of vocational skills training, developmental rehabilitation, social skills training, and community integration in our day program ...

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All JobsDay Program Adults With Disability JobsDay Program Adults With Disability Jobs in Chicago, IL

Day Program Adults With Disability information

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$10

$19

$27

How much do day program adults with disability jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for day program adults with disability in Chicago, IL is $19.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.10 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a day program for adults with disabilities?

A Day Program for adults with disabilities is a structured service that provides social, recreational, educational, and vocational activities during the day. These programs are designed to support adults with physical, intellectual, or developmental disabilities by promoting independence, skill development, and community involvement. Participants benefit from a safe environment, opportunities for personal growth, and social interaction with peers. Day programs may also offer support with daily living skills and access to therapies as needed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a day program coordinator for adults with disabilities?

To thrive as a Day Program Coordinator for Adults with Disabilities, you need experience in disability services, a relevant qualification (such as a certificate in disability support or social services), and knowledge of care standards. Familiarity with individualized service plans, assistive technology, and documentation or scheduling systems is common. Compassion, patience, and strong interpersonal communication are essential soft skills for fostering supportive relationships and addressing participant needs. These skills are critical for ensuring the safety, engagement, and well-being of program participants in a respectful, empowering environment.

What are some common challenges faced by staff working in a day program for adults with disabilities, and how can they be effectively addressed?

Staff in day programs for adults with disabilities often encounter challenges such as managing diverse support needs, fostering engagement among participants with varying abilities, and adapting activities to suit individual preferences. Effective communication, patience, and ongoing training in person-centered approaches are key to overcoming these challenges. Team collaboration and regular debriefings also help staff share strategies, stay motivated, and ensure the best possible experience for participants.

What is the difference between Day Program Adults With Disability vs Supported Employment Specialist?

AspectDay Program Adults With DisabilitySupported Employment Specialist
CredentialsTypically no formal certification requiredOften requires certifications like CPR, First Aid, or supported employment credentials
Work EnvironmentGroup settings focused on social and daily living activitiesOne-on-one or small group settings assisting clients in employment
Employer & Industry UsageNon-profit organizations, community centers, government programsEmployment agencies, vocational rehabilitation services, nonprofits
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding day programs for adults with disabilitiesAssisting clients in finding supported employment opportunities

Day Program Adults With Disability primarily focus on social, recreational, and daily living activities within group settings, often without formal certifications. Supported Employment Specialists work directly with individuals to secure and maintain employment, often requiring specific certifications and working in employment-focused environments. Both roles serve adults with disabilities but differ in their primary objectives and work settings.

What are popular job titles related to Day Program Adults With Disability jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Day Program Adults With Disability jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Day Program Adults With Disability jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Day Program Adults With Disability jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Day Program Adults With Disability jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Day Program Adults With Disability job openings:

Day Program Adults With Disability jobs near you
Infographic showing various Day Program Adults With Disability job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, 37% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,774 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Site Coordinator - Spec Rec Day Program PT

Waukegan Park District

Waukegan, IL • On-site

$15 - $21.26/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Status of Employment
Seasonal, Non-exempt
Compensation & Benefits:
Expected hiring range $16.00 - $17.75 based on education, experience, and skills.
Click here for a quick look at benefits!
Description / Duties:
Provide leadership and guidance while working with individuals with disabilities in an adult day program setting. Provide knowledge for the development of life skills in the areas of health and wellness, education, art, recreation and leisure skills, and job training.
  • Oversee and supervise assigned programs and services.
  • Provide direct leadership and supervision to assigned programs and services.
  • Create developmentally appropriate activities that meet the needs and interests of participants for the HEART Day Program in the categories of Health, Education, Art, Recreation and Training.
  • Plan and implement the schedule of daily activities in program setting.
  • Assist in the development and implementation of goals and objectives specific to area of responsibility.
  • Assist in the evaluation of programs and services in the assigned area of responsibility.
  • Make and implement recommendations.
  • Assist in the recruitment, selection, training, supervision, and evaluation of assigned staff and volunteers.
  • Coordinate with Recreation Specialist and Recreation Supervisor to schedule staff.
  • Assist with assessments of new program participants.
  • Assist in the preparation and maintenance of reports and records regarding participants, programs, and services.
  • Ensure counselors maintain facilities in a clean, organized, and neat manner.
  • Plan field trips and arrange guest speakers and accompany participants on field trips.
  • May transport participants and supplies using a park district vehicle.
  • Assist in the purchase, distribution, and maintenance of proper inventory of all supplies and materials.
  • Establish cooperative working relationship with coworkers, parents, community agencies, and organizations.
  • Attend pertinent departmental/park district meetings and in-house training sessions.
  • Conduct self-according to the policies and procedures as established by the park district.
  • May open and close facilities.
  • Wear assigned uniforms while on duty.
  • Participate in Park District Safety and Training Program.

Age:
  • 18 years and older

Education:
  • High School graduation required. Some college preferred.

Experience:
  • Experience working with adults with disabilities. Supervision of groups of adults with disabilities in a recreational setting. Supervision of staff and volunteers in a recreational setting preferred.

Knowledge:
  • General knowledge of recreation, parks, and leisure services field.
  • General knowledge of out of school programs and services.
  • General knowledge of developmentally appropriate activities for adults with disabilities in a recreational environment.

License:
  • Valid drivers license required for programs including transportation.

Certifications:
  • First Aid, CPR, and AED certification.

Hours:
9:30am 2:30pm Monday and Tuesday with some extra hours for planning.
Contact:
Maria Owens
Recreation Specialist-Special Recreation
Email: mowens@waukeganparks.org
Phone: 847-630-4764

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