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Professional Development Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

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Professional Development Assistant information

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$9

$22

$33

How much do professional development assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional development assistant in Chicago, IL is $22.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a professional development assistant?

A Professional Development Assistant is an administrative professional who supports the planning, coordination, and execution of training and development programs within an organization. Their responsibilities typically include scheduling workshops, managing registration, maintaining records, and assisting with event logistics. They may also help with tracking employee progress, preparing training materials, and communicating with staff about available learning opportunities. This role is vital in ensuring that employees have access to educational resources that promote growth and skill development within the company.

What are the typical responsibilities of a professional development assistant?

As a Professional Development Assistant, you'll often coordinate logistics for training sessions, such as scheduling workshops, preparing materials, and managing participant registrations. You may also track employee attendance, assist in evaluating training effectiveness, and maintain databases of learning activities. Collaboration with trainers, HR staff, and other departments is common to ensure smooth delivery of professional development programs. This role provides valuable exposure to learning and development processes, which can open pathways to more advanced HR or training positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a professional development assistant?

To thrive as a Professional Development Assistant, you need organizational skills, attention to detail, and experience with event planning or administrative support, often supported by an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS), Microsoft Office Suite, and registration or scheduling software is typically required. Excellent communication, interpersonal skills, and a proactive approach help build positive relationships and anticipate program needs. These abilities ensure smooth coordination of professional development activities, effective support for staff, and successful program delivery.

What is the difference between Professional Development Assistant vs Career Counselor?

AspectProfessional Development AssistantCareer Counselor
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in education, human resources, or related fieldsOften requires a master's degree in counseling, psychology, or career development
Work EnvironmentEducational institutions, corporate training departments, nonprofit organizationsEducational institutions, career centers, private practice
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in academic and corporate settings to support employee or student growthUsed to guide individuals in career planning and job search strategies

The Professional Development Assistant focuses on supporting training programs and skill-building initiatives, often within organizations. In contrast, a Career Counselor provides personalized guidance to individuals seeking career advice, making their roles complementary but distinct in scope and focus.

What does a professional development assistant do?

A professional development assistant supports employees' training and growth by organizing workshops, maintaining training records, and coordinating development programs. They often work with HR teams and may use learning management systems to track progress and ensure compliance with organizational goals.

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

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

$18 - $24.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Description

Job Summary

Youth Development Assistants (YDAs) play a vital role in creating a safe, positive, and engaging after-school environment for Club members. YDAs help deliver high-quality programs and activities that support the Boys & Girls Club mission while upholding the Five Key Elements of Positive Youth Development:

  • A Safe, Positive Environment
  • Fun
  • Supportive Relationships
  • Opportunities & Expectations
  • Recognition

YDAs support program planning, member engagement, and site operations to ensure every child feels valued, supported, and inspired to succeed.

Key Responsibilities

  • Arrive 20 minutes prior to program start to prepare materials and plans
  • Lead and support activities across program areas (education, arts, sports, STEM, etc.)
  • Display and review daily schedules with staff and members
  • Provide clear instructions, set expectations, and encourage participation
  • Promote member engagement and regroup members as needed for activities
  • Assist with small-group and special program opportunities
  • Ensure program areas are clean, organized, and safe
  • Monitor supplies and communicate needs to the Site Coordinator
  • Take attendance for each program and organize records for entry into MyClubHub
  • Take photos of member participation at least weekly
  • Highlight member achievements in program areas and displays
  • Communicate professionally via walkie-talkie and during interactions
  • Support Youth Program Quality Assessment (YPQA) and other evaluation processes
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Key Competencies

  • Program implementation
  • Safety awareness
  • Behavior management
  • Communication skills
  • Adaptability
  • Dependability
  • Emotional intelligence

Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Requirements

  • Must be 18 years of age or older
  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Strong organizational skills and effective time management
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks, set priorities, and problem-solve
  • Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team
  • Experience working with children or teens preferred
  • Ability to be flexible, patient, and supportive
  • Commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment
  • Alignment with the mission, vision, and values of Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Illinois
  • Availability to work Monday-Friday between 2:00 PM - 6:30 PM (specific shift times vary by program)
  • Bilingual abilities are a plus

Education and Experience

  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • Experience working with children or teens preferred
  • Prior non-profit experience a plus

Mental / Emotional Requirements

  • Proficiency in planning, organizing, and coordinating activities
  • Effective time management to balance multiple responsibilities
  • Maintain patience and resilience in challenging situations
  • Stay calm and model positivity under pressure
  • Resolve conflicts effectively and de-escalate tense situations
  • Adapt to unexpected changes or challenges during program hours

Trauma-Informed Standards of Practice

  • Ensure compliance with safety training and promote physical and emotional safety in all interactions
  • Communicate transparently, set clear expectations, and foster trust-based relationships
  • Engage with intentionality and trauma awareness; seek resources to support members, families, and staff
  • Provide equitable, inclusive, and culturally relevant services
  • Empower youth, families, and staff through voice, choice, and ownership of the Club experience
  • Build connections that promote growth, collaboration, and shared problem-solving

Five Key Elements in Practice

  • Safe, Positive Environment: Promote safety, consistency, and stability. Maintain clean and organized spaces.
  • Fun: Create daily fun through team-building, icebreakers, and spontaneous activities.
  • Supportive Relationships: Build meaningful connections with youth, families, and colleagues.
  • Opportunities & Expectations: Help youth build skills, develop character, and pursue educational success.
  • Recognition: Celebrate and display member achievements. Provide positive reinforcement as youth grow and succeed.