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Play Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Vale Park Animal Hospital

Play Yard Attendant

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Play Yard Attendants must be able to perform moderate physical labor including but not limited to lifting and restraining dogs up to 40 pounds. This position will also expose them to animal bodily ...

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All JobsPlay JobsPlay Jobs in Chicago, IL

Play information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$8

$27

$39

How much do play jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for play in Chicago, IL is $27.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $36.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are play jobs?

Play jobs typically refer to roles that involve organizing, facilitating, or participating in activities designed for recreation, creativity, or learning, especially for children. These can include positions such as playworkers, recreation leaders, or those working in play therapy. Professionals in this field support development and well-being by encouraging imaginative and physical play in safe environments. Play jobs can be found in schools, childcare centers, community organizations, and hospitals. The goal is to help individuals, particularly children, express themselves, develop social skills, and have fun.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a play therapist?

To thrive as a Play Therapist, you need a background in psychology or social work, specialized training in play therapy techniques, and relevant licensure or certification (such as Registered Play Therapist). Familiarity with assessment tools, therapeutic toys, and documentation systems is essential. Strong soft skills like empathy, patience, and active listening help build trust and rapport with children and families. These skills and qualifications are crucial for effectively supporting children's emotional and behavioral development through therapeutic play.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in play therapy, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in play therapy often encounter challenges such as building trust with children, working with clients who have difficulty expressing emotions, and navigating complex family dynamics. Addressing these challenges typically involves using creative, child-centered techniques, maintaining clear communication with caregivers, and participating in ongoing professional development. Collaboration with other mental health professionals and regular supervision also help therapists manage difficult cases and maintain effectiveness.

What is the difference between Play vs Game Designer?

AspectPlayGame Designer
Required CredentialsOften no formal degree, but knowledge of game mechanics and user engagementTypically a degree in game design, computer science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentGame development studios, online platforms, or independent projectsGame studios, tech companies, or freelance consulting
Industry UsageUsed broadly in gaming, entertainment, and interactive mediaSpecific role focused on designing game concepts and mechanics
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding what playing involves versus designing gamesLearning about designing game experiences and mechanics

Play generally refers to engaging with games or interactive media for entertainment, requiring minimal formal credentials. Game Designer, however, involves creating and planning game mechanics, often requiring specialized education and experience. While playing is about experiencing games, game designers focus on developing those experiences for others.

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

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

Play jobs near you
Infographic showing various Play job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,911 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

Play Associate

Play Street Museum - South Loop

Chicago, IL

$16/hr

Part-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Join the Fun as a Play Associate at Play Street Museum!

Looking for a job that combines creativity, education, and a whole lot of fun? Play Street Museum (PSM) is on the hunt for enthusiastic and friendly individuals to join our team as Play Associates! If you love working with children, have a passion for learning through play, and enjoy creating memorable experiences, we’d love to hear from you.


About Play Street Museum

At Play Street Museum, we believe in the power of play! Our clean, upscale, and educationally-focused children’s museum is designed to engage kids aged 8 and under in a world of creative and dramatic play. Our mission is to provide superior-quality play and educational experiences for young children and their families, all while inspiring a lifelong love of learning.


What You’ll Do as a Play Associate

As a Play Associate, you’ll play an essential role in creating a welcoming and engaging environment for children and their families. Your day-to-day responsibilities will include:

- Greeting families with a warm smile and ensuring they feel right at home.

- Supervising play areas to maintain a safe, clean, and fun environment.

- Assisting with activities that spark creativity and imagination.

- Helping with birthday parties, special events, and group visits.

- Tidying up and organizing play spaces to keep everything running smoothly.

- Being a positive and energetic ambassador for the Play Street Museum experience!


What We’re Looking For

Just bring your enthusiasm, positive attitude, and love for working with children! Here’s what we’d love to see:

- A friendly, approachable personality with great communication skills.

- A passion for working with kids and making their day extra special.

- A knack for multitasking and staying organized in a fast-paced environment.

- Reliability, punctuality, and a team-player mindset.


Why You’ll Love Working Here

At Play Street Museum, we’re more than just a workplace—we’re a community that values creativity, learning, and fun! While we don’t offer additional benefits, you’ll gain the rewarding experience of working in an environment that inspires young minds and makes a difference in families’ lives.


Our Culture and Values

At PSM, we’re all about play with a purpose. We believe that learning happens best in a fun, hands-on environment, and we’re dedicated to creating a space where children and their families can explore, imagine, and grow. As part of our team, you’ll be surrounded by like-minded individuals who share your passion for creativity, education, and making a positive impact.


Ready to Join the Fun?

If this sounds like the perfect role for you, we’d love to hear from you! Apply today and help us inspire the world through play—one child at a time.

Play Street Museum is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes candidates from all backgrounds.


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