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Day Program Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Description At iCook After School, we believe every child deserves experiences that spark curiosity and build lasting confidence. Through hands-on cooking, STEAM, and financial literacy programs,

E-CADEMY Instructor PLTW

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Description: Position Overview The E-CADEMY PLTW Program Instructor is responsible for the oversight, implementation, and instruction of Project SYNCERE's PLTW program for High School students (9th-

E-CADEMY Instructor PLTW

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$26 - $30/hr

Description Position Overview The E-CADEMY PLTW Program Instructor is responsible for the oversight, implementation, and instruction of Project SYNCERE's PLTW program for High School students (9th-

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Day Program Instructor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$5

$22

$43

How much do day program instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for day program instructor in Chicago, IL is $22.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $27.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Day Program Instructors?

Day Program Instructors are professionals who work with individuals, often those with developmental disabilities or special needs, in structured daytime programs. They plan and facilitate activities that promote skill development, socialization, and independence. Their responsibilities may include teaching daily living skills, supporting community integration, and ensuring participants' safety and well-being. Day Program Instructors also collaborate with other staff and families to create individualized plans and track progress.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Day Program Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Day Program Instructor, you need experience in education or human services, knowledge of developmental disabilities, and usually a high school diploma or higher. Familiarity with individualized service plans (ISPs), documentation software, and basic assistive technology is often required. Patience, creativity, and strong interpersonal skills help instructors effectively engage participants and build positive relationships. These abilities ensure safe, supportive, and enriching environments that promote participant growth and well-being.

What are some common challenges faced by Day Program Instructors, and how can they be managed?

Day Program Instructors often work with individuals who have varying needs and abilities, which can present challenges in adapting activities and communication styles. Managing group dynamics, ensuring participant engagement, and handling unexpected behavioral issues are typical aspects of the role. Successful instructors rely on patience, strong interpersonal skills, and collaboration with colleagues and support staff to create a positive and inclusive environment. Ongoing training and support from the organization can also help instructors effectively address these challenges and foster participant growth.
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Day Program Instructor jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Day Program Instructor job openings:
Program Coordinator

Program Coordinator

iCook After School

Chicago, IL โ€ข Hybrid

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Description

At iCook After School, we believe every child deserves experiences that spark curiosity and build lasting confidence. Through hands-on cooking, STEAM, and financial literacy programs, we're giving K-8 students across IL, CA, VA, MD, CT, NY, DC, TX, and AZ the enrichment that nurtures healthy habits, ignites a love of science, and gives them a foundation that lasts.


Job Summary

iCook After School is seeking a highly organized, independent, and motivated Program Coordinator to join our small Chicago-based team. The Program Coordinator role will oversee the successful delivery of our after-school education programs across an assigned region. This role is responsible for managing day-to-day program operations, including scheduling, quality assurance, and the remote supervision of a team of educators delivering after-school classes.


The Program Coordinator will work closely with school and district partners to ensure programs run smoothly, align with partner expectations and meets company standards, and drive continuous improvement through feedback, evaluation, and relationship management. In addition to program oversight, the Program Coordinator contributes to curriculum development, technical support, and supports supply logistics. This is a great opportunity for someone who is passionate about education and thrives in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment. We're looking for a self-motivated, adaptable individual who enjoys working independently and can effectively manage competing priorities.


The position is based in Chicago, IL, with a schedule of four days per week in the office and one remote workday.


Key Responsibilities

Program Management (80%)

  • Conduct outreach and confirm class scheduling with school and district contacts, ensuring all administrative requirements are met, necessary paperwork is completed, and facilities are reserved where applicable
  • Oversee end-to-end program operations across an assigned region, including staffing, scheduling, and coordination with school and district partners
  • Manage quality delivery of 40-80 weekly classes and remotely supervise 30-50 educators, providing ongoing support and schedule oversight
  • Maintain program compliance while gathering feedback from schools, districts, families, and instructors to drive continuous improvement
  • Serve as primary point of contact for parents and school and district partners, resolving concerns, strengthening relationships, and identifying opportunities for growth
  • Collaborate with HR to communicate hiring needs and conduct second-round interviews for staffing

Invoicing & Billing (5-10%)

  • Manage the full invoicing cycle - generating and submitting accurate invoices for classes performed, following up on outstanding payments, maintaining billing records by partner and program, and coordinating with internal teams to resolve discrepancies or communicate schedule-related changes

Supply Logistics and Support (5-10%)

Manage program supply needs end-to-end - coordinating with the supply team to ensure instructors have

everything required to successfully deliver programs, maintaining accurate and up-to-date records in the

tracking system, and ensuring 100% collection and return of all supplies upon program completion


Other Duties as Assigned

  • Substitute for local Chicago-based classes as needed; provide hands-on training and direct supervision to local Chicago instructors as needed, ensuring program quality and consistency
  • Maintain and update website content as needed
  • Assist in preparing and distributing newsletters to families, school districts and community partners
  • Assist with HR tasks such as first-round interviews as needed
  • Support general administrative and operational tasks as assigned
  • Contribute to the design and development of engaging, age-appropriate curriculum, including activities, lesson plans, and supporting materials
  • Assist with seasonal supply tasks, including washing, organizing, and inventorying supply rooms

Skills

  • Strong organizational, time management, and multitasking skills, with the ability to work independently and proactively solve problems
  • Adaptable and solution-oriented, consistently addressing challenges with initiative and sound judgment
  • Deliver exceptional customer service through prompt, professional, and empathetic communication with clients
  • Clear communication and effective collaboration with school and district partners, especially remotely
  • Passion for education and commitment to safe, inclusive, enriching programs

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience
  • At least 1-2 years of experience in program coordination, administration, operations, or a related role
  • Experience with data management platforms (such as Airtable, Notion, Monday.com), Microsoft Office Suite, and HRIS and/or ATS systems
  • Previous experience working in an after-school program or similar educational setting is preferred

Working with iCook offers several exciting benefits:

  • A supportive and dedicated team that shares a passion for learning, innovation, skill development, and achieving our mission.
  • Opportunity for hands-on experience across multiple areas of a small business
  • Paid time off, remote work Fridays, health insurance, 401(K)
  • Salary starting at $50,000+ per year, based on experience


iCook Inc is an equal opportunity employer.