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Parks Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

New

ITSUGAR LLC

Sales Associate

Schaumburg, IL

$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

$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 ...

New

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 ...

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 ...

Crystal Lake Parks

Front Desk Associate

Cary, IL · On-site

$15/hr

Join Our Team! Racket Club Front Desk Associate - Where Tennis Meets Top-Notch Service Are you energized by people, passionate about creating great first impressions, and maybe even a tennis ...

Crystal Lake Parks

Front Desk Associate

Cary, IL

$15/hr

Join Our Team! Racket Club Front Desk Associate - Where Tennis Meets Top-Notch Service Are you energized by people, passionate about creating great first impressions, and maybe even a tennis ...

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All JobsParks Associate JobsParks Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL

Parks Associate information

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How much do parks associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 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 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 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 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
Park Maintenance Associate - Summer Seasonal

Park Maintenance Associate - Summer Seasonal

Lake Bluff Park District

Lake Bluff, IL • On-site

$16/hr

Temporary

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Labor/Maintenance Associate
Date Posted:
1/15/2026
Location:
Lake Bluff Recreation Center
Date Available:
05/01/2026
HOURS
This position requires non-traditional work hours at various times throughout the year and/or season. A typical schedule is four weekdays, 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. plus Saturday or Sunday 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Another typical schedule is five weekdays, 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Typically the Park Maintenance Associate season is roughly six months, from approximately April to September. Pay will start at $16.00 depending on qualifications.
POSITION SUMMARY
Responsible for carrying-out a wide variety of general labor projects, including but not limited to; cleaning, maintenance, repairs, painting, construction, landscaping, and seasonal duties as assigned.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
  • Upkeep and maintenance of our parks and facilities as assigned. Assist in the maintenance and in establishing a safe and clean environment for guests.
  • Responsibilities include maintaining and landscaping the parks using motorized, electrical or hand equipment and tools.
  • Ensures that all support and service is conducted and fulfilled in a manner consistent with the goals and objectives of the Lake Bluff Park District.
  • Using weed eater, trim tree wells, park perimeter, trim edges/banks and other boundary-type areas.
  • Rakes and cleans ball fields with both motorized or hand equipment.
  • Cleans, provides preventative maintenance, and simple repairs of maintenance equipment.
  • Performs custodial cleaning, grass mowing, and general park/golf course and building maintenance and construction.
  • Mow turf as assigned. Including athletic fields, parks, fairways, tees, greens and roughs.
  • Maintain trees and shrubs, to include watering, fertilizing and pruning.
  • Maintains the landscape and flower beds.
  • Plants trees, shrubs, flowers, and other landscape materials.
  • Services trash receptacles.
  • Maintains and cleans buildings.
  • Operates automatic and manual transmission vehicles.
  • Operates hand and power tools.
  • Performs the job safely and in compliance with Park District policies, procedures, work and safety rules.
  • Special projects or other duties as assigned.
  • Assist other Divisions as needed.

MARGINAL DUTIES
  • Performs construction and maintenance of athletic fields and special event facilities including but not limited to: temporary fencing, installing and grading infield clay/sand loam, tent/seating set- ups, moving bleachers, soccer goal assembly and repair, drain tile installation and floodwater pumping.
  • Assists staff with maintenance and construction of pavements, buildings, plumbing, carpentry, electrical & lighting, furnaces, ducts, pipe lines, water lines, shelters, benches, playground equipment, signs, fencing, sewers, and drainage structures, asphalt, concrete and brick paving, stone paths, etc.
  • Special projects as assigned.
  • Demonstrate initiative, dependability, punctuality, and the ability to complete tasks assigned in a positive manner.

SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS
Must have at least one (1) year experience in related field of landscape, ground maintenance, property and/or facility maintenance, or any equivalent combination of education, experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
  • Good working knowledge of landscape and grounds, maintenance tools, equipment, shop and field practices.
  • Ability to operate all forms of light and heavy maintenance equipment.
  • Must be able to prioritize and follow/carry out a variety of assignments.
  • Able to work and complete assignments with minimal supervision.
  • Must have a valid Illinois Driver's License and be at least 18 years old.
  • Must be able to read, write, and speak in English

SUPERVISION
Under the general direction of the Deputy Director and the Superintendent of Maintenance/Parks and Facilities, the individual must be self-motivated and capable of initiating and developing tasks on a regular basis. The individual will perform projects as assigned by the Manager. The employee is responsible for prioritizing work tasks, and for identifying and utilizing the appropriate resources to resolve a problem or situation and/or research and analyze specific data. Guidance is provided through departmental policies, Park District operating practices and procedures, and other resources as applicable to the specific project assigned. Work is evaluated at least annually, with respect to problem-solving ability, customer service, research and analytical skills, written and verbal communication skills, and performance in accordance with this classification standard.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Lifting: to load and unload materials up to 50 lbs.
Reaching: to retrieve and replace materials
Standing: to operate machinery
Walking: to and from facilities
Sitting: to operate machinery
Crouching: to retrieve supplies from lower levels
Seeing: to drive park district vehicles
Grasping: to handle tools
Carrying: supplies to and from locations
Pulling: to operate manual shifts
Fingering: to operate machinery
Balancing: while cutting or sawing materials
Speaking: to communicate with co-workers
The considerations described above are representative of those that must be met by an employee performing the essential functions of the position successfully. Must have the ability to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions such as extreme cold, high winds, rain, snow, sleet, high temperatures and humidity; to stand for long periods of time, bend, and work outdoors with limited lighting; to work with chemicals, vehicles or equipment fumes and gasses, dust and dirt. The employee must also be able to exert up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. The employee must be able to operate machinery and handle tools on a regular basis.
The Lake Bluff Park District is an equal employment opportunity employer.

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