Recreation Programmer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Join Our Mission at Lambs FarmAt Lambs Farm, we are passionately committed to enriching the lives of adults with developmental disabilities by providing them with meaningful work opportunities in a vibrant and intentional community. For over six decades, our farmyard, restaurants, stores, residential programs, and community services have helped individuals lead productive, fulfilling lives while building confidence, independence, and meaningful connections.As we continue to grow, we are expanding our recreation programming to provide more opportunities for participants to engage in sports, fitness, wellness, and community activities. Through adaptive recreation and inclusive programming, we help individuals develop social skills, build self-confidence, and enjoy active, meaningful experiences within the community.Lambs Farm is a place where encouragement, inclusion, and personal growth guide every interaction. Here, recreation is more than activity-it is a pathway to confidence, connection, and independence.Do you have a passion for recreation, coaching, and helping others thrive through active engagement? Lambs Farm may be the place for you.SummaryWe are seeking an energetic and compassionate Recreation Specialist to lead engaging recreation programming for adults with developmental disabilities. In this hands-on role, you will facilitate athletics, Special Olympics training, fitness activities, and community outings while creating inclusive experiences that support participant growth, wellness, and social connection.Reporting to Programs leadership, you will work collaboratively with the recreation team while independently leading activities both on our Libertyville campus and throughout the community. We are hiring for both a full-time weekday position and a part-time weekend position, offering opportunities to support participants across a variety of schedules and recreational programs.The RoleDesign and facilitate recreational programs that promote skill development, confidence, independence, and social engagementLead adaptive sports, fitness, wellness, and leisure activities for adults with developmental disabilitiesCoordinate and lead Special Olympics practices, events, and competitionsFacilitate community outings and recreational experiences that encourage inclusion and community participationAdapt recreational activities to meet varying physical, emotional, and cognitive ability levelsProvide coaching, encouragement, and positive behavioral support during recreational programmingSupport participants in achieving personal recreation, wellness, and fitness goalsBuild and maintain partnerships with community organizations to expand inclusive recreational opportunitiesEnsure recreational spaces, equipment, and activities remain safe, organized, and welcomingTransport participants to community outings, recreation sites, and Special Olympics events as neededMaintain documentation related to participation, programming, and participant progressCollaborate with residential, vocational, and interdisciplinary teams to support participant-centered programmingTravel locally (approximately 50%) to community recreation sites, events, and activitiesSupport flexible scheduling, including weekday, evening, or weekend programming depending on role assignmentQualificationsHigh school diploma required2-3 years of experience in recreation, fitness, coaching, adaptive programming, or working with adults with developmental disabilities preferredExperience leading group activities, sports programs, or community recreation initiatives preferredValid driver's license from Illinois, Indiana, or Wisconsin with a clean driving recordAbility to safely demonstrate and lead active recreational programmingStrong communication, coaching, and interpersonal skillsAbility to adapt activities and communication styles to support individuals with varying abilities and needsBasic computer skills for documentation, communication, and schedulingAbility to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team environmentEnthusiastic, patient, and encouraging approach to participant engagementAvailability for flexible scheduling, including weekday, evening, or weekend hours depending on assigned roleCommitment to inclusion, participant empowerment, and person-centered programmingCompensationThe hourly rate for this role is $17.00 per hourDisclaimer: As part of the pre-employment process, all employees at Lambs Farm are required to successfully complete background and registry checks and medical screenings. These measures are in place to ensure a safe and compliant environment for everyone involved. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.