Early Childhood and Youth Coordinator (part-time/IMRF)

About the role

Description Incorporated in 1955 and encompassing more than 454 acres, the Mt. Prospect Park District provides outstanding recreational programs, events, parks, facilities and services. With seven primary facilities and 27 neighborhood parks, the Park District is an integral part of a thriving multi-generational community. District open space includes two outdoor pools, biking and walking paths, a dog park and sizable space for outdoor athletic programming. The District covers over 11 square miles and serves a region of over a quarter million residents in Mount Prospect and surrounding communities. The Mt. Prospect Park District is a proud recipient of the 2026 Illinois Parks and Recreation Association Exceptional Workplace Award!

Responsibilities

• Communicate and collaborate daily with the Early Childhood and Youth Manager and Youth Program Supervisor.
• Aid in the planning, coordination, implementation, and evaluation of School Day-Off programs and seasonal camps, ensuring high-quality participant experiences and operational efficiency.
• Aid in preschool programs, day-to-day operations, and Early Childhood special events.
• Develop, manage, and adjust staffing plans, including scheduling, on-site supervision, and performance feedback for program staff.
• Aid in the development and monitoring of program budgets, track expenditures, and make recommendations to improve cost efficiency and program sustainability.
• Evaluate program effectiveness through participation data, feedback, and observation, and implement improvements as needed.
• Aid in the planning, coordination, implementation, and supervision of park district school-year programs, including Kids Klub, KinderKlub, and Preschool.
• Responsible for planning, organizing, staffing, and overseeing Days Off School Programs, following School District 57 and School District 59 calendars.
• Serve on special event and park district committees as assigned.
• Support the early stages of program development for Kids Klub, KinderKlub, Preschool, and Early Childhood classes; assist with summer camp programs as needed.
• Transport participants to/from field trips and/or school using park district vehicles as needed.
• Serve as primary liaison between staff and the Early Childhood and Youth Manager.
• Aid in obtaining supplies and materials for programs and performing errands as required.
• Support day-to-day office and program operations.
• Aid in monthly billing notices and follow-up on delinquent accounts.
• Help prepare Preschool and Early Childhood class projects and materials.
• Develop and execute program marketing and communication strategies to increase enrollment, engagement, and community awareness.
• Review and edit monthly newsletters.
• Aid in staff recruitment, training, and supervision.
• Positively represent the District in interactions with parents, participants, principals, school officials, and community organizations.
• Maintain knowledge of and adherence to District safety policies, procedures, and equipment operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in recreation, education, social work, or a related field preferred; coursework in these areas acceptable.
• Must be 21 years or older and possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.
• Must be available for year-round employment.
• Required hours will fluctuate between program seasons.
• The work week will average about 20-25 hours per week.
• Work days will generally be M-F, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM, with the exception of substitute hours and/or weekend/evening events.
• CPR, First Aid, and Mandated Reporter certifications (or ability to obtain within 60 days of hire).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) and Google platforms, with the ability to navigate the internet and online portals.
• Ability to effectively care for, work with, and relate to children.
• Strong interpersonal, decision-making, conflict-resolution, delegation, and organizational skills.
• High level of energy, initiative, enthusiasm, and cooperation.
• Ability to exercise good judgment and maintain composure during periods of high activity or in emergency situations.
• Strong communication skills for effective collaboration, safety coordination, and emergency response.
• Ability to recognize unsafe conditions and respond appropriately.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while managing multiple programs and priorities.
• Self-motivated, with the ability to follow through on tasks to completion.
• Demonstrated experience in program coordination, staff supervision, and decision-making in a dynamic environment preferred.
• Must be able to lift 25+ pounds.
• Must be able to perform tasks that require walking, bending, stooping, kneeling, climbing and reaching.
• Must be able to squat down to a child’s level.
• Must be able to demonstrate large/small motor activities.
• Must be able to operate a limited range of equipment.
• Must be able to stand, sit or walk for long periods of time.
• The Early Childhood and Youth Coordinator will work inside and outside. When outside, may be exposed to weather conditions including sunlight, humidity, wind, and warm and cold temperatures.
• The general indoor work area is a smoke-free indoor environment with controlled temperature and fluorescent lighting.
• Exposure to noise distractions from employees or equipment operation in adjacent work areas.
• Exposure to cleaning materials and office supplies.
• Due to the needs of the Park District, evening and weekend hours could be required.
• The work schedule may vary and the workweek may exceed regular hours at times, but will be less than 1,500 hours per year.
• Regular and reliable attendance is an essential function of the Early Childhood and Youth Coordinator position.