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Sports Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Flexible schedule Youth Volleyball Instructor / Coach (Part-Time Weekend) Love Volleyball? Enjoy ... College students studying education, sports, or kinesiology * Coaches looking to gain experience

Flexible schedule Youth Soccer Instructor / Coach (Part-Time Weekend) Love Soccer? Enjoy working ... College students studying education, sports, or kinesiology * Coaches looking to gain experience

Showing results 21-40

Sports Instructor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$21

$38

How much do sports instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for sports instructor in Chicago, IL is $21.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sports instructor?

Sports instructors are professionals who teach individuals or groups how to play specific sports or improve their athletic skills. They develop training programs, demonstrate techniques, and ensure participants follow safety guidelines. Sports instructors often work in schools, sports clubs, fitness centers, or as private coaches. Their goal is to help students enhance their performance, enjoy physical activity, and achieve their fitness or competitive objectives.

What are some common challenges sports instructors face when working with groups of varying skill levels?

Sports instructors often encounter the challenge of managing groups with participants who have different abilities and learning speeds. Balancing instruction so that beginners feel supported while more advanced members stay engaged requires careful planning and adaptability. Instructors typically use differentiated activities and flexible coaching techniques to ensure everyone progresses and feels included. Strong communication and observation skills are essential to effectively motivate and guide each group member according to their needs.

What is the difference between Sports Instructor vs Fitness Trainer?

AspectSports InstructorFitness Trainer
Required CertificationsSports coaching certifications, CPR/AEDPersonal training certifications, CPR/AED
Work EnvironmentSports clubs, schools, community centersGyms, fitness centers, private studios
Employer & Industry UsageSports organizations, schools, recreational programsHealth clubs, personal training companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Sports Instructors and Fitness Trainers share similar certifications and often work in health and recreation settings. However, Sports Instructors focus on coaching specific sports and athletic skills, while Fitness Trainers design general fitness programs for clients. Both roles require CPR/AED certification and are employed in sports, fitness, and community environments. The main difference lies in their focus: sports-specific coaching versus overall fitness training.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sports instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sports Instructor, you need a solid background in physical education, coaching techniques, and a relevant certification or degree in sports science or a related field. Familiarity with training equipment, fitness assessment tools, and first aid certification are typically required. Strong communication, motivational, and leadership skills help build rapport with participants and foster a positive learning environment. These skills and qualifications are essential for ensuring safe, effective instruction and for inspiring athletes to reach their potential.
What are popular job titles related to Sports Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL? For Sports Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Sports Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Sports Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Sports Instructor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,445 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

$18.11 - $21.74/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday


Salvation Army rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 360 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

570th of 770 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

THE SALVATION ARMY
NORTH & CENTRAL ILLINOIS DIVISION
Ray and Joan Kroc Corp Community Center
JOB DESCRIPTION
JOB TITLE: Youth Soccer Instructor
PEOPLE MANAGER: No
FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt
PAY GRADE: 203
PAY RANGE: $18.11-21.74
WHO WE ARE
At The Salvation Army, we are dedicated to Doing the Most Good. We are made up of thousands of officers, soldiers, staff, volunteers, donors, and partners working together to holistically meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of our most vulnerable neighbors
KROC CENTER CHICAGO VISION: Kroc Center Chicago is a community center where families, individuals and relationships thrive in the name of Jesus.
JOB SUMMARY
We are seeking a passionate and experienced Soccer Instructor/Coach to lead and develop players of various ages and skill levels. The ideal candidate will foster a positive, inclusive, and competitive environment that promotes sportsmanship, teamwork, and personal growth.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Areas of responsibility include but are not limited to the following:
  1. Plan, organize, and conduct soccer training sessions tailored to age and skill level.
  2. Teach fundamental and advanced soccer techniques, tactics, and strategies.
  3. Monitor and assess player development and provide constructive feedback.
  4. Stay current with coaching techniques, rules, and best practices.
  5. Lead practices, games, and tournaments. Ensure equal playing time for all players.
  6. Ensure a safe playing environment by following safety guidelines and protocols. Observe and enforce facility rules and regulations.
  7. Communicate with parents and guardians about program activities, schedules, and participant progress.
  8. Set up and clean-up areas. Maintain a clean and organized program area.
  9. Attend in-service training programs and be aware of all facility procedures.
  10. Be responsible for team equipment and ensure it is age-appropriate and in good condition.
  11. Report problems or needs to management.
  12. Sports instructors may also diagnose and remedy form-related issues, analyze gait, and coach mental agility.
  13. Follow and ensure adherence to The Salvation Army Policies, Procedures, and Code of Ethics
  14. Maintain regular and punctual work
  15. In contacts related to this position's duties, this individual acts as a representative of The Salvation Army and its mission.

OTHER DUTIES
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
  • Education: A bachelor's degree in a related field, such as sports science or physical education, is preferred. High School Diploma required with 4 years of experience in sports instruction
  • Certification: Coaching certification (e.g., USSF, UEFA, NSCAA) preferred. CPR and First Aid certification is required or must be obtained within the first 90 days.
  • Experience: Experience working with children in a sports or recreational setting, and experience playing soccer.

Skills/Abilities:
  • Previous experience as a soccer coach or instructor (youth or adult levels).
  • Strong knowledge of soccer rules, techniques, and strategies.
  • Coaching certification (e.g., USSF, UEFA, NSCAA) preferred.
  • Strong communication and Leadership skills
  • Ability to lead and motivate children
  • Knowledge of sports rules and regulations
  • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • Ability to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends.
  • Refined communication and coordination techniques
  • Ability to engage children, students, and staff in a professional manner
  • Well-honed sports-related diagnostic abilities
  • A willingness to promote the mission of The Salvation Army.

JOB LIMITATIONS
  • This individual will only commit Army resources that have been allocated or approved.
  • This individual will adhere to all policies and procedures in carrying out the responsibilities of this position.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT
  • This position's work environment will be at the Kroc Center, working indoors and outdoors depending on the weather.
  • Soccer instructors will work evenings, weekends, and holidays
  • Soccer instructors may work in extreme weather conditions, such as heat.
  • Soccer instructors may be exposed to noise and dust.
  • Soccer instructors may need to be able to stand, walk, and run for extended periods of time, and may need to lift and carry equipment.

COMPETENCIES
  • Maintain positive work atmosphere by behaving and communicating in a manner that fosters and maintains positive relationships with co-workers and supervisors.
  • Resolve conflicts in a positive manner.
  • Treat staff, clients, and visitors with courtesy.
  • Respect others' property and person.
  • Use professional and appropriate communication to and about co-workers, supervisors and subordinates.
  • Support the Mission of The Salvation Army by treating every donor, contact and colleague with respect and dignity, and without discrimination of any kind.

PERFORMANCE MEASURES
This individual will be evaluated on how effectively the outcomes of this position are achieved as well as the timeliness, accuracy, and completeness of accomplishing assigned goals.
This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys working with youth and wants to build their coaching skills in a supportive environment. Perfect for a college student, recent graduate and passionate about giving back through sports.
DOING THE MOST GOOD
Do you want to use your skills and talents to make a lasting difference in the world? The Salvation Army is the fourth largest charity in the United States and is an international organization based on Biblical principles created to help people in need. We are mission-driven, diverse, collaborative, and focused on positive results for people. Join us in making a difference.
The Salvation Army offers a competitive benefit package for eligible employees which may include the following medical, dental, vision, hearing, disability and life insurance, flexible spending accounts, 403(b) retirement accounts, a company-funded defined contribution (pension) plan and generous time off policies.
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation to apply for this position, please contact the Human Resources department.
The Salvation Army is an Equal Opportunity Employer Minority/Female/Veterans/Disabled. Candidates who are back-to-work, US Veterans, people with disabilities, people who have been impacted by the justice system, and/or people without a college degree are encouraged to apply.

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About Salvation Army

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The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Industry

Non-profits, retail, amusement, gambling, and recreation and religious organizations

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US