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Sport Development Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Lead Softball Instructor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description EL1 is an industry leading sports development company created by ... Manage time slot turnover * Set up/breakdown and cleaning of stations and equipment * Manage open ...

Job Type Full-time Description EL1 is an industry leading sports development company created by ... The LI will report directly to the assigned facility's Program Manager, in addition to having a ...

Description EL1 is an industry leading sports development company created by athletes, for athletes ... The LI will report directly to the assigned facility's Program Manager, in addition to having a ...

New

Senior Manager, Sports

Chicago, IL · On-site

$120K - $151K/yr

As a Senior Manager, Sports Marketing, you will be at the center for some of the biggest decisions ... Lead the negotiation, development and execution of league, team and athlete partnerships in sports ...

Training & development Love sports? Played minimum varsity high school in either soccer or football ... Help run summer camp activities, including organizing groups, managing transitions, keeping kids ...

Description EL1 is an industry leading sports development company created by athletes, for athletes ... Manage time slot turnover * Set up/breakdown and cleaning of stations and equipment * Manage open ...

New

Description EL1 is an industry leading sports development company created by athletes, for athletes ... Manage time slot turnover * Set up/breakdown and cleaning of stations and equipment * Manage open ...

New

Description EL1 is an industry leading sports development company created by athletes, for athletes ... The LI will report directly to the assigned facility's Program Manager, in addition to having a ...

New

Lead Baseball Instructor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description EL1 is an industry leading sports development company created by ... The LI will report directly to the assigned facility's Program Manager, in addition to having a ...

Job Type Full-time Description EL1 is an industry leading sports development company created by ... Manage time slot turnover * Set up/breakdown and cleaning of stations and equipment * Manage open ...

Showing results 21-40

Sport Development Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$34K

$79.8K

$137.1K

How much do sport development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for sport development manager in Chicago, IL is $79,836.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,300.00 and $93,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Sport Development Manager do?

A Sport Development Manager is responsible for promoting and increasing participation in sports within a community or organization. They design and implement programs, secure funding, and work with various stakeholders such as local authorities, schools, and sports clubs. Their role often includes managing budgets, evaluating program effectiveness, and ensuring that activities are inclusive and accessible. Ultimately, they aim to foster a positive sporting culture and support talent development at all levels.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a Sport Development Manager?

To thrive as a Sport Development Manager, you need expertise in sports management, program development, and stakeholder engagement, often supported by a relevant degree such as sports management or physical education. Familiarity with event management platforms, CRM systems, and knowledge of governance or safeguarding certifications are typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills help foster partnerships and motivate teams. These competencies are essential for effectively growing sports participation, managing projects, and delivering successful development initiatives.

How does a Sport Development Manager collaborate with local communities to increase participation in sports programs?

A Sport Development Manager often works closely with local schools, community groups, and sports clubs to identify needs and implement initiatives that encourage greater participation. This collaboration may involve organizing workshops, developing outreach campaigns, and securing funding for grassroots programs. Building strong relationships with stakeholders is key, as it ensures programs are accessible, inclusive, and tailored to the community's interests. Regular feedback and communication help refine these initiatives and maximize their impact.

What is the difference between Sport Development Manager vs Sports Program Coordinator?

AspectSport Development ManagerSports Program Coordinator
ResponsibilitiesStrategic planning, program development, stakeholder engagementAssisting with program implementation, event coordination, participant management
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in sports management or related field, experience in program developmentBachelor's degree preferred, experience in sports or event coordination
Work EnvironmentOffices, community centers, sports organizationsSports facilities, community events, schools
Industry UsageUsed in sports organizations, government agencies, non-profitsCommonly used in community sports programs, schools, local clubs

The main difference is that a Sport Development Manager focuses on strategic planning and developing sports programs at a higher level, while a Sports Program Coordinator handles the day-to-day coordination and execution of sports activities. Both roles require relevant experience and work in similar environments, but the manager role involves more oversight and planning responsibilities.

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

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

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Sport Development Manager jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Sport Development Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Sport Development Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,836 per year, or $38.4 per hour.

Lead Softball Instructor

EL1 Sports

Chicago, IL • On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
EL1 is an industry leading sports development company created by athletes, for athletes. We create access and sustainability for the everyday operators of facilities, organizations, and teams, supporting in their mission to impact the next generation. We believe in the transformative power of sport yielded through consistent and personal relationships of men and women of influence and the athletes they lead and the coaches they work alongside. EL1 is the proud youth baseball and softball training partner of Major League Baseball.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Lead Softball Instructor (LI) is responsible for implementing the highest quality training and instruction programs for youth athletes and teams. As an LI, you are responsible for: executing trainings from setup through breakdown; ensuring fellow instructing staff is appropriately implementing curriculum; and living EL1's mission and values while maintaining EL1's positive internal culture and highest quality customer experience.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The essential functions include, but are not limited to:
INSTRUCTION AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Implement all aspects of EL1's standard Instruction & Training Programs at assigned facility and, if needed/required, EL1's mobile locations and/or fields.
  • Perform on turf/field softball training, instruction, and/or performance-related training.
  • Ensure smooth execution of trainings by fulfilling the following duties:
  • Perform player check-in and attendance
  • Manage group rotations
  • Manage time slot turnover
  • Set up/breakdown and cleaning of stations and equipment
  • Manage open facility times
  • Assist the PM, as needed, in the development of training programming and curriculum.
  • Assist the PM with instructional staff training and curriculum related tasks.
  • Assist the PM with light facility maintenance, daily cleaning and execute open/close procedures
  • Be a role model for the instructional staff, providing peer-to-peer coaching and support
  • Abide by and enforce all facility rules and regulations.

CUSTOMER AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
  • Champion the creation of impactful, enduring connections with community leaders, industry influencers, businesses, and families to amplify and expand the reach of EL1's programs and services.
  • Serve as an EL1 brand ambassador, exemplifying EL1's core values and consistently enforcing company policies and standards with integrity and excellence.
  • Embrace additional responsibilities and tasks as needed, demonstrating flexibility and a commitment to achieving company goals.

Perform other related duties as necessary or assigned by Management.
Requirements
POSITION REQUIREMENTS
  • Bachelor's Degree preferred
  • In-depth knowledge of the sport
  • Verifiable playing and/or coaching experience at the collegiate and/or professional level
  • Current or recent experience as an instructor preferred
  • Experience instructing youth and HS players and programs preferred
  • Strong organizational and communication skills
  • Physical ability to set up, breakdown, and move equipment
  • Foster meaningful relationships with players, parents and coaches
  • Willingness and ability to support all areas of instruction

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS & TRAVEL
  • Prolonged periods of standing and walking throughout facilities is required
  • Environments include, but are not limited to, outdoor spaces, sports facilities, recreation fields/parks, remote locations, and office spaces
  • Frequent local travel required with occasional required overnight travel

PERKS OF THE JOB
  • Fast-paced and exciting work environment with a sports-minded group of colleagues
  • Additional compensation opportunities
  • Opportunity to support, lead, and develop instructors who played collegiately and/or professionally
  • Opportunities to support events at MLB/ MiLB stadiums and MLB-branded events
  • A full suite of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance and 401(k)

Salary Description
$45,000 - $55,000 per year