Physical Instructor
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 15, 2026. First seen by Alion on Oct 7, 2026.
This position is covered by the collective bargaining agreement between the Chicago Park District and SEIU Local 73. This position is open to current Chicago Park District employees and external applicants. The District may assemble a pool of qualified external candidates concurrently with this posting. Internal bargaining unit applicants will be given priority consideration in accordance with the Local 73 collective bargaining agreement.
Title: Physical Instructor
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS: Under general supervision, plans, promotes, organizes, conducts and instructs all physical activities. Conducts classes, teaches games, controls recreational equipment and recruits volunteers. Performs related duties as required.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Plans and implements course curricula for instruction of sports, games and competitive athletics.
- Provides instruction and supervision to patrons in sports, games and competitive athletics.
- Demonstrates proper techniques and skills for recreation and athletics.
- Adapts programs to reflect differing levels of participant skill development.
- Provides instruction in advanced strategies of team and individual sports, physical fitness and conditioning.
- Provides information on rules of individual and team sports.
- Explains basics of low organized activities.
- Instructs rhythm and movement.
- Enforces and promotes safety guidelines for recreation and athletic activities.
- Resolves conflicts among participants.
- Issues and maintains inventory of recreation equipment and supplies.
- Sets up recreation apparatus and equipment.
- Officiates team and individual sports.
- Promotes sportsmanship and encourages creativity in participants.
- Communicates constructively with participants, parents, volunteers and community.
- Consults with individuals and community groups to determine their interests, needs and desires.
- Determines tournament eligibility requirements.
- Verifies dates and standards.
- Establishes schedules for tournaments, leagues and competitions.
- Conducts meetings on competitions and other special events.
- Maintains records and prepares reports.
- Supervises unorganized play and enforces rules and regulations.
- Conducts and attends workshops and in-service training seminars.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Training and Experience: Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education, Recreation and Leisure, Social Services, Education, Special Education, Child Development or comparable major and two (2) years of Park and Recreation experience or related field. Alternatively, 20 hours from an accredited college in Recreation, Leisure Studies or Physical Education and at least four (4) years of work experience in Park and Recreation or related field. Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Knowledge of athletic, leisure and recreational theories and principles. Skill in teaching recreational, leisure and athletic activities. Effective oral and written communication skills. Organizational skills. Ability to evaluate skill levels and teach recreational, leisure and athletic activities accordingly.
BENEFITS: As a full-time Chicago Park District employee in a position covered by the District’s Agreement with SEIU Local 73, eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefits package including:
- Competitive Group Insurance benefits including health, life, dental and vision plans.
- 13-20 days of paid vacation time annually (13 days for first year of employment).
- 12 days of paid sick time annually which carryover year to year.
- 4 paid personal days per year.
- 13 paid holidays per year.
- 12 weeks of paid parental leave (upon meeting FMLA eligibility)
- Pension plan through the Park Employees' and Retirement Board Employees' Annuity and Benefit Fund, a system covered by the State of Illinois' Reciprocal Act.
- Deferred Compensation Program - voluntary supplemental retirement plan.
- Optional pre-tax programs - Transit
- Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility.
- Free Admission to most Chicago museums.
Disclaimer
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Job duties are to be performed with or without reasonable accommodation.
Rate of Pay: $68,968.93/annually
SEIU Local 73 Career Service EEO: Para-professional FLSA: Non-Exempt