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History Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Reading Instructor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

The Academic/Special Ed Instructor performs as an instructor in a regular classroom setting ... history), political affiliation, military service, or other status protected by applicable federal ...

Showing results 21-40

History Instructor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$31.4K

$59.9K

$85.6K

How much do history instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for history instructor in Chicago, IL is $59,897.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $67,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a History Instructor, you need a solid background in history, strong research skills, and at least a bachelor's or master's degree in history or a related field. Familiarity with educational technology, such as learning management systems (LMS) and digital research databases, is typically required. Exceptional communication, organization, and the ability to engage and inspire students are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills ensure effective knowledge transfer, foster student curiosity, and create a dynamic learning environment.

What is the difference between History Instructor vs History Teacher?

AspectHistory InstructorHistory Teacher
CredentialsBachelor's degree in History or Education, teaching certificationBachelor's degree in History or Education, teaching certification
Work EnvironmentColleges, universities, adult education programsMiddle and high schools
Employer & IndustryHigher education institutions, community collegesPublic and private K-12 schools
Search & Comparison IntentPost-secondary education, college-level coursesSecondary education, high school curriculum

While both roles involve teaching history, a History Instructor typically works in colleges or universities, focusing on higher education, whereas a History Teacher works in middle or high schools, teaching younger students. The required credentials are similar, but the work environment and student age groups differ significantly.

What are some common challenges faced by history instructors in engaging students with historical content?

One common challenge History Instructors encounter is making historical content relevant and engaging for students who may not initially see its importance. To address this, instructors often incorporate interactive teaching methods such as debates, primary source analysis, and project-based assignments. Balancing coverage of required curriculum with fostering critical thinking can also be demanding, but collaboration with colleagues and ongoing professional development help instructors refine their approaches. Additionally, adapting lessons to diverse learning styles and backgrounds is important for ensuring all students are included and motivated.

What does a history instructor do?

A History Instructor teaches students about historical events, figures, cultures, and themes, often at the high school or college level. They develop lesson plans, deliver lectures, lead discussions, and assess student understanding through exams and assignments. History Instructors also encourage critical thinking by helping students analyze historical sources and understand different perspectives on the past. Additionally, they may advise students, conduct research, and participate in academic activities within their institution.

What are popular job titles related to History Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL?

For History Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various History Instructor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,897 per year, or $28.8 per hour.

Mah Jongg Instructor - Seniors

Arlington Heights Park District

Arlington Heights, IL

$20 - $30/hr

Part-time

Posted 15 days ago


Arlington Heights Park District rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

247th of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Love Mah Jongg? We'd love to meet you.


AHPD is hiring a Beginning Mah Jongg instructor for adults ages 50+.


Classes meet weekly beginning January 2027 at 10AM-12PM and 12:30-2:30PM. Wednesdays are preferred, but the teaching day is flexible. Class size is limited to 8-12 students.


Part-Time Wages


Senior Center - General Recreation Instructor: Job Description


ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES

  • Prepares lesson plans and activities to meet the program or class objectives
  • Selects and prepares required materials and equipment for each class
  • Welcomes participants and takes attendance at each class and maintains accurate class lists to ensure
    waivers have been completed
  • Completes teacher check list each session and other required documentation
  • Provides a variety of appropriate activities throughout the program
  • Demonstrates appropriate techniques and skills to participants in the program or activity being taught
  • Teaches creativity to develop enthusiasm within students for the program or activity being taught
  • Assists the Senior Supervisor in developing class/program information for inclusion in Program Guide
  • Maintains a high level of instruction for all participants
  • Cleans up and puts away materials and equipment at the end of each class
  • Works directly with the participants and assists them in completing the day's project or activity
  • Communicates with participants regularly regarding their progress and any changes in program/class
  • Oversees the safety and welfare of the participants
  • Communicates with participants regarding Park District emergency and safety procedures
  • Notifies the Senior Supervisor of serious incidents, accidents, or inappropriate conduct and completes
    Incident/Accident Forms, as needed
  • Attends work on a regular basis
  • Performs the job safely and in compliance with District policies, procedures, work and safety rules, and
    the employee handbook
  • Maintains a clean and organized work environment
  • Additional functions as assigned which may be considered essential


EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING

  • High school graduate or G.E.D.
  • Minimum one-year experience instructing adults or seniors in the area of expertise
  • Or, any equivalent combination of education, experience and training
  • Adult CPR and AED Certification required within six months of employment; Adult CPR and AED
    Certification preferred


BENEFITS WE OFFER

  • PTAC Membership to ARC
  • Discounts on some programming
  • KinderCare Discount


AHPD OVERVIEW

The Arlington Heights Park District (AHPD) is a public park and recreation agency located in Arlington Heights, Illinois-one of the largest communities in Chicago's prestigious northwest suburban corridor. Our mission is to enrich the community by providing fun, accessible and impactful recreation and facilities for every age and season. However, you choose to recreate, we have something for you. We aim to serve everyone equally and fairly across our 29 facilities-including five community centers with outdoor pools, Arlington Ridge Center, two tennis clubs, two public golf clubs, Lake Arlington, Arlington Heights Historical Museum, and Senior Center-and 58 parks across 716 acres of land. In our 100-year history, we have earned multiple distinctions recognizing our high-quality standards of excellence, including three National Gold Medal Awards, maintaining a Moody's AAA bond rating for nine years, and receiving multiple awards for fiscal responsibility.


The Arlington Heights Park District commits itself to a cohesive environment to create a mutually respectful, multicultural, and equitable environment.


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