Part-time Afterschool Program Director at Douglass

Champaign Park District; Champaign (IL); On-site; USD 25,000 - 28,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Discount on room/shelter rentals

Free drink & popcorn at Virginia Theat

Cell phone carrier discounts

AFLAC group-rate benefit options

SPOT Pet Insurance

Posi Bucks rewards

Impact Awards

Keeva Keeling Award

Job summary

Champaign Park District in Champaign, IL, seeks an Afterschool Program Director to lead fall and spring afterschool programs for children and teens, creating a safe, welcoming space where kids can learn, play, and unwind after the school day.

The role blends leadership, creativity, and organization, overseeing activities from arts and crafts to field trips, supervising part-time staff, and maintaining records, budgets, and program quality to deliver trusted, engaging experiences.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age (21 preferred).
• Experience working with children in a structured recreational or educational setting.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and stay motivated.
• Ability to meet the physical demands of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Responsibilities

• Plan, organize, and oversee daily afterschool program operations.
• Lead engaging activities such as arts and crafts, games, outdoor play, cooking, homework support, enrichment projects, and field trips.
• Supervise, train, schedule, and support part-time staff and volunteers.
• Ensure safety by enforcing procedures, emergency protocols, and risk management practices.
• Build positive relationships with participants, families, staff, and the community.
• Maintain program records including attendance, reports, schedules, and payroll documentation.
• Manage program supplies, inventory, and budgets according to Park District guidelines.
• Maintain clean, organized, and welcoming program spaces.
• Communicate regularly with the Youth and Teen Program Coordinator on operations and needs.

Skills

Strong communication

Relationship building

Problem solving

Independent work

Physical demands

Job description

Job Details

Job Location: Douglass Community Center - Champaign, IL 61820

Position Type: Part-time

Salary Range: $18.25 - $18.25 Hourly

Champaign Park District – Part-Time 2, Non-Exempt

Hours not to exceed 19 hours per week on average

About the Job

The Afterschool Program Director is the heartbeat of our fall and spring afterschool programs. This role leads fun, engaging, and well‑run programs for children and teens, creating a safe and welcoming space where kids can learn, play, and unwind after the school day. From arts and crafts to games, enrichment activities, and field trips, this position blends leadership, creativity, and organization to deliver programs families trust and kids love.

Summary of Responsibilities

• Plan, organize, and oversee daily afterschool program operations
• Lead engaging activities such as arts and crafts, games, outdoor play, cooking, homework support, enrichment projects, and field trips
• Supervise, train, schedule, and support part‑time staff and volunteers
• Ensure safety by enforcing procedures, emergency protocols, and risk management practices
• Build positive relationships with participants, families, staff, and the community
• Maintain program records including attendance, reports, schedules, and payroll documentation
• Manage program supplies, inventory, and budgets according to Park District guidelines
• Maintain clean, organized, and welcoming program spaces
• Communicate regularly with the Youth and Teen Program Coordinator on operations and needs

Why Work With Us?

If you enjoy working with kids, leading a team, and making afternoons meaningful, this role delivers. You’ll gain hands‑on leadership experience, sharpen your communication and problem‑solving skills, and play a direct role in shaping positive experiences for youth in our community. It’s fast‑paced, rewarding, and never boring.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age (21 preferred)
• Experience working with children in a structured recreational or educational setting
• Strong communication and relationship‑building skills
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and problem‑solving skills
• Ability to work independently and stay motivated
• Ability to meet the physical demands of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation

Benefits & Perks for Seasonal Employees

Seasonal employees with the Champaign Park District have access to:

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• 20% discount on qualified room and shelter/pavilion rentals for employees and immediate household members
• Free drink & popcorn at the Virginia Theatre when showing your Park District badge
• Recognition Programs:
• Posi Bucks appreciation rewards
• Impact Awards ($50 award for approved nominations)
• Keeva Keeling Outstanding Employee of the Year recognition
• Cell phone carrier discounts
• AFLAC group-rate voluntary benefit options
• SPOT Pet Insurance group discount

About the Champaign Park District

The Champaign Park District is dedicated to enhancing community quality of life through parks, programs, and services that are accessible, inclusive, and enriching. We believe in creating welcoming spaces, supporting staff growth, and delivering meaningful recreational opportunities for all ages.

Who This Position Is Ideal For

This role is perfect for someone who loves working with kids, enjoys leading others, and thrives in an energetic, hands‑on environment. If you’re organized, dependable, creative, and ready to make afternoons count, this is a great opportunity to step into a leadership role with real impact.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

The Champaign Park District is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status. We are committed to providing a workplace that is free from discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employees are required to comply with our equal opportunity and harassment laws, policies, and procedures.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age, 21 years of age preferred
• Ability to work effectively with children in a structured recreational setting.
• Strong personal communication skills both verbal and communication
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with Park District staff, participes, parents, and the public.
• Interest working with children
• Demonstrated problem‑solving skills and sound judgment.
• Ability to work independently and remain self‑motivated.
• Ability to meet the physical and environmental demands of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.