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Summer Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Jr. Skating Instructor

Winnetka, IL · On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Classes are generally held from September through July, with additional opportunities to assist during our August summer skating camp based on program needs and instructor availability. Why Join Our ...

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Summer Instructor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$18

$26

How much do summer instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer instructor in Chicago, IL is $18.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $21.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a summer instructor?

Summer Instructors are educators who lead classes, workshops, or activities during the summer months, typically in camps, schools, or community programs. Their role involves teaching specific subjects or skills, supervising participants, and creating a positive and engaging learning environment. Summer Instructors often work with children or teenagers, helping them develop new abilities and enjoy enriching experiences while school is out of session.

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

To thrive as a Summer Instructor, you need subject matter expertise, experience working with children or teens, and often a relevant degree or teaching certification. Familiarity with classroom management systems, curriculum planning tools, and first aid certifications is typically valued. Strong communication, creativity, and adaptability help instructors engage students and handle diverse learning needs. These skills ensure a safe, educational, and enjoyable environment that promotes student growth during summer programs.

What are some common challenges summer instructors face when managing groups of students?

Summer Instructors often manage diverse groups of students with varying interests, energy levels, and learning styles. Balancing engaging activities while ensuring safety and maintaining discipline can be challenging, especially in outdoor or hands-on environments. Effective communication, flexibility, and strong organizational skills are essential to address these challenges, encourage participation, and create a positive learning atmosphere. Collaborating closely with co-instructors and support staff can also help manage group dynamics and ensure program goals are met.

What is the difference between Summer Instructor vs Camp Counselor?

AspectSummer InstructorCamp Counselor
Required CredentialsTeaching certification or relevant subject expertiseHigh school diploma or equivalent; some camps may require specific skills
Work EnvironmentClassroom or educational setting, often with structured curriculumOutdoor or recreational setting, focusing on activities and supervision
Employer & IndustrySchools, educational programs, summer academiesSummer camps, recreational organizations, youth programs
Common Search & ComparisonSummer Instructor vs Camp Counselor

While both roles involve working with children during summer, Summer Instructors typically focus on teaching specific subjects in educational settings, requiring relevant credentials. Camp Counselors usually supervise recreational activities in outdoor environments, emphasizing supervision and engagement. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right summer role based on skills and interests.

What are the most commonly searched types of Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Summer Instructor jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Summer Instructor job openings:
Infographic showing various Summer Instructor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 40% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,934 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

American Sign Language Instructor - Lutz Center

After School Matters

Chicago, IL • On-site

Other

Re-posted 12 days ago


After School Matters rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 221 rated education and training


Job description

Summary of Position: After School Matters is seeking committed, part-time instructors to teach its American Sign Language program during the summer, fall, and spring for 15 high school participants between the ages of 14 to 20 at the Lutz Center.
American Sign Language is an advanced apprenticeship. Students learn the essential vocabulary, basic grammar, and facial expressions/body language used in ASL. Instructors will supervise and lead students in understanding and expose teens to the importance of Deaf Culture and ASL basics.
The typical schedule for program sessions are as follows:
  • Summer: 6 to 7 weeks, daily Monday through Friday, four instructional hours per day. Additional hours are allotted for planning, recruitment, professional development and meetings. Exact program meeting days/times are flexible, with some restrictions, so long as instructional hours are met.
  • Fall: 10 weeks, Monday through Friday (after school hours) and/or Saturday, 60-90 instructional hours (based upon the program model). Additional hours are allotted for planning, recruitment, professional development and meetings. Exact program meeting days/times are flexible, with some restrictions, so long as instructional hours are met.
  • Spring: 10 weeks, Monday through Friday (after school hours) and/or Saturday, 60-90 instructional hours (based upon the program model). Additional hours are allotted for planning, recruitment, professional development and meetings. Exact program meeting days/times are flexible, with some restrictions, so long as instructional hours are met.
  • Limited opportunities for Saturday only programs are available.

Major Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Expose a diverse group of teen participants to various facets of the education, linguistics, and communication industries while fostering a positive, safe, and collaborative atmosphere for all teen participants.
  • Maintain knowledge of current education, linguistics, and communication, technology and concepts
  • Prepare, organize, and supervise the weekly lessons on Deaf culture, ASL vocabulary/grammar, or ASL body language and facial expressions.
  • Develop, plan, and implement high-quality related field trips, master classes, events, and guest visits to enhance instruction and training
  • Provide supervision during program field trips and other youth engagement opportunities
  • Report all problems or concerns and program updates to After School Matters Program Specialist to maintain consistent lines of communication throughout the program session
  • Attend all planning and program dates, including: Instructor orientation, professional development workshops, meetings and other required sessions
  • Participate in the recruitment, interview, and selection process of teen program participants
  • Manage and track program activities such as attendance, interview outcomes, enrollment, evaluation surveys, and pertinent student records in an online data tracking system (CitySpan).
  • Supervise teens at an average of 15:1, instructor: teen ratio

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Proficiency in ASL: Must have a deep understanding and fluency in American Sign Language. This includes mastery of ASL grammar, vocabulary, syntax, and fingerspelling. Must be able to sign clearly and effectively communicate complex ideas in ASL.
  • Knowledge of Deaf Culture: Knowledge of cultural norms, values, history, and traditions within the Deaf community. Cultural sensitivity and respect are essential.
  • Teaching Skills: Possess effective teaching skills, including lesson planning, classroom management, and instructional design. Must be able to adapt teaching methods to meet the needs of diverse learners and create an inclusive learning environment.
  • Communication Skills: Strong communication skills are essential to effectively convey information to teens. This includes both signing fluently to explain concepts, provide feedback, and facilitate discussions.
  • Patience and Empathy: An ideal instructor is supportive, encouraging, able to provide constructive feedback, and is understanding that learning a new language requires patience and practice.
  • Customer Service Skills: Able to effectively communicate with a variety of stakeholders (teen participants, parents, ASM programs staff, vendors, etc.)

Qualifications:
  • Experience teaching, specifically teenagers, is highly preferred.
  • Culturally competent in working with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
  • Commitment to diversity and inclusion is required.

Compensation: $32 / hour
About Us: After School Matters is a Chicago-based nonprofit organization that annually offers after-school and summer programs to nearly 19,000 Chicago high school teens to explore and develop their talents while gaining critical skills that will set them up for success in college and beyond.
ASM has engaged more than 450,000 Chicago teens and is the nation’s largest and most successful provider of after-school and summer programs for high school teens.
ASM offers paid apprenticeships led by professionals in the fields of arts, communications and leadership, sports, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math). Our nationally respected youth development model has been replicated in cities across the country and earned us the City Livability Award from the U.S. Conference of Mayors.
Programs take place at community locations throughout the city, including four ASM buildings: downtown at Gallery 37 Center for the Arts and Orleans, the Michael and Karyn Lutz Center in Belmont Cragin, and the Pullman community at Gately Park. Currently, After School Matters’ annual operating budget is approximately $48M and employs approximately 500 staff across the organization.
EEO: After School Matters is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status, military discharge status, age, marital status, parental status, or source of income.

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