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Parks Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

ITSugar LLC

Sales Associate

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$16/hr

The Retail Sales Associate oversees setting up a great store experience for all customers by ... Perk Spot (Discounts on cell phone, travel, theme parks, etc.) * 401k with company match beginning ...

ITSUGAR LLC

Sales Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.05 - $17.50/hr

The Retail Sales Associate oversees setting up a great store experience for all customers by ... Perk Spot (Discounts on cell phone, travel, theme parks, etc.) * 401k with company match beginning ...

ITSUGAR LLC

Sales Associate

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$16/hr

The Retail Sales Associate oversees setting up a great store experience for all customers by ... Perk Spot (Discounts on cell phone, travel, theme parks, etc.) * 401k with company match beginning ...

ITSugar LLC

Sales Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.05 - $17.50/hr

The Retail Sales Associate oversees setting up a great store experience for all customers by ... Perk Spot (Discounts on cell phone, travel, theme parks, etc.) * 401k with company match beginning ...

It'Sugar LLC

Sales Associate

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$16/hr

The Retail Sales Associate oversees setting up a great store experience for all customers by ... Perk Spot (Discounts on cell phone, travel, theme parks, etc.) * 401k with company match beginning ...

It'Sugar LLC

Sales Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.05/hr

The Retail Sales Associate oversees setting up a great store experience for all customers by ... Perk Spot (Discounts on cell phone, travel, theme parks, etc.) * 401k with company match beginning ...

VCA Animal Hospitals

Associate Veterinarian

Berwyn, IL · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Join us as an Associate Veterinarian at VCA Berwyn Animal Hospital is located in Berwyn, IL and you ... Enjoy a quick walk to nearby parks during your lunch breaks. * Community & Culture : * Explore ...

VCA Animal Hospitals

Associate Veterinarian

Berwyn, IL

$100K - $150K/yr

Join us as an Associate Veterinarian at VCA Berwyn Animal Hospital is located in Berwyn, IL and you ... Enjoy a quick walk to nearby parks during your lunch breaks. * Community & Culture : * Explore ...

VCA Animal Hospitals

Associate Veterinarian

Chicago, IL · On-site

$77K/yr

Known for its charming lakefront, lush parks, vibrant arts scene, and hometown feel, Highland Park ... Innovative Associate health and well-being resources (Headspace app, Fidelity financial wellness ...

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All JobsParks Associate JobsParks Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL

Parks Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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How much do parks associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for parks associate in Chicago, IL is $16.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $19.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Parks Associate, you need basic knowledge of grounds maintenance, landscaping, and facility upkeep, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with landscaping tools, small machinery, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong communication, teamwork, and customer service skills are crucial for interacting with visitors and colleagues. These skills ensure parks are safe, clean, and welcoming environments for the public.

What are some common challenges faced by parks associates, and how can they be effectively managed?

Parks Associates often encounter challenges such as managing large crowds, maintaining safety standards, and handling guest inquiries in a fast-paced environment. Effective communication, teamwork, and adaptability are crucial to managing these situations successfully. Associates typically receive training to handle emergencies and guest concerns, and they are encouraged to collaborate closely with supervisors and other staff to ensure a positive park experience for visitors. Being proactive and maintaining a friendly, approachable attitude also help in addressing challenges efficiently.

What is the difference between Parks Associate vs Recreation Assistant?

AspectParks AssociateRecreation Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer certifications in parks or recreationHigh school diploma; certifications in CPR or first aid are common
Work EnvironmentOutdoor parks, recreational areas, community centersCommunity centers, parks, recreational facilities
Employer & Industry UsagePublic parks departments, recreation agenciesMunicipal recreation departments, community organizations
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level outdoor recreation rolesCompared for supporting recreational programs and activities

The Parks Associate and Recreation Assistant roles share similarities in work environment and required certifications, often working in outdoor or community recreational settings. While both are entry-level positions in parks and recreation, Parks Associates typically focus more on maintenance and operational tasks, whereas Recreation Assistants support program delivery and community engagement. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the best fit for their skills and career goals.

What does a parks associate do?

A parks associate assists with maintaining and managing park facilities, grounds, and recreational areas. They may perform tasks such as landscaping, cleaning, providing customer service, and ensuring safety standards are met, often working outdoors and using basic tools or equipment. The role typically requires good communication skills and knowledge of safety procedures.

What are the most commonly searched types of Parks jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Parks jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Parks Associate jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Parks Associate jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Parks Associate jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Parks Associate jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Parks Associate jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Parks Associate job openings:

Parks Associate jobs near you

Superintendent of Parks

Deerfield Park District

Deerfield, IL • On-site

$90K - $97K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Superintendent of Parks
Who we are?
The Deerfield Park District was formed in 1951 with a mission to provide outstanding parks, services, facilities, and recreation programs that enrich lives, promote healthy living, and provide memorable experiences. The Park District has over 25 parks and facilities including the Deerfield Golf Club, Sachs Recreation Center, Patty Turner Center, Jewett Park Community Center, Mitchell Pool and Deerspring Pool. The Park District employs an average of 300 staff with over 500 seasonally. The district maintains a modern, well-designed environment and is an IAPD/IPRA Illinois Distinguished Accredited Agency and a two-time National Gold Medal Finalist in 2021 and 2022. For additional information visit us at www.deerfieldparks.org.
What is the Opportunity?
The Superintendent of Parks, reporting directly to the Director of Parks, is responsible for managing daily general park maintenance, special projects, and support for special events across the District. This work requires knowledge of grounds, athletic field, and playground maintenance, and includes oversight of landscaping, site restoration, snow removal operations, and the parks facility inspection program. The role directly supervises the Parks Foreman and a team of 7–12 full- and part-time maintenance employees. This is an exciting opportunity to lead a skilled maintenance team, shape capital improvement projects, and contribute to budget planning and long-range park development.
Key Responsibilities
  • Directly supervise, train, and evaluate full-time, part-time, and seasonal Parks Department staff, creating a positive team environment with clear expectations and consistent, professional feedback.
  • Manage maintenance, landscaping, and site restoration activities, including playgrounds, athletic fields, skate park, disc golf course, sport courts, pathways, drainage, fencing, signage, ice rinks, and special events.
  • Coordinate and oversee the parks facility inspection program and establish proper safety practices for each task performed.
  • Manage and evaluate snow removal operations and oversee outsourced landscape maintenance contracts and service performance.
  • Collaborate with the Director of Parks on annual budget preparation, cost estimates, plans and specifications for park development, and equipment purchases.
  • Ensure compliance with all ADA guidelines and respond to public inquiries and complaints in a professional, timely manner.
Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or equivalent (GED) required; BS or Associate's degree in Park Management, Landscape Architecture, Horticulture, Agriculture, or related field preferred.
  • Minimum three years of progressively responsible or supervisory experience in turf and athletic field maintenance, landscape design and construction, horticulture, natural resource management, or a related field.
  • Valid driver's license required; CDL license preferred.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a National Certified Playground Safety Inspector (CPSI) certification and an Illinois Dept. of Agriculture Pesticide Applicators License in turf, ornamental, and right-of-way categories.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft programs including Word, Teams, and Excel, with the ability to learn in-house computer applications.
  • Strong understanding of grounds maintenance, safety practices, and park operations.
Scheduling, pay and benefits
Full-Time, Exempt Position. Salary Range: $90,000 – $110,000 +/- DOQ.
Excellent benefit package including Pension, Paid days off (vacation, sick, holiday), medical, dental and life insurance, free annual fitness center pass, pool pass and free and/or subsidized Park District activities and events for employee and family members, plus more.
A full job description will be provided during the interview process.

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