Therapeutic Day Camp Recreation Specialist

Northwest Special Recreation Association (NWSRA); Rolling Meadows (IL); On-site; USD 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical

Dental

Vision

PTO

IMRF

Job summary

Northwest Special Recreation Association (NWSRA) in Rolling Meadows, IL, seeks a Recreation Specialist – Day Camp to plan and run inclusive day camp programs for individuals with disabilities. You will lead camps and activities, supervise part‑time staff and volunteers, manage budgets, and ensure safety and quality outcomes across sites.

The role requires CTRS/CPRP or willingness to obtain, First Aid/CPR/AED, and strong leadership. Approx.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Recreation, Parks and Recreation or related field.
• CTRS or CPRP certification, or the ability to obtain.
• First Aid/CPR/AED certification required or ability to obtain.
• CPI certification required or ability to obtain.
• Ability to drive Association vehicles and obtain an Illinois CDL.

Responsibilities

• Plan, develop and implement a variety of programs, including general, clubs, special events, Leisure Education, Winter, Spring and Summer camps, trips/overnights, Lightning Athletics, inclusive placements and cooperative programs, with creativity and enthusiasm.
• Implement behavior management strategies as needed while supporting individual and social skill development, encouraging independence, promoting full participation by adapting activities, and ensuring participants physical/emotional well-being.
• Serve as a team leader for recreational programs, supervising and evaluating part‑time employees and volunteers to promote group cohesiveness.
• Coach and develop part‑time employees and volunteers to ensure effective, consistent, and high‑quality recreation support.
• Solve complex problems, work efficiently under pressure, and meet deadlines for projects, assignments, and events.
• Select and recommend supplies and equipment while overseeing inventory, cleaning, inspection, restocking, and ongoing maintenance within assigned areas of responsibility.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Leadership

Team supervision

Education

Bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Recreation, Parks and Recreation or related field

CTRS or CPRP certification, or ability to obtain

First Aid/CPR/AED certification

CPI certification

CDL driver capability

Job description

Northwest Special Recreation Association (NWSRA) in Rolling Meadows, IL, seeks a Recreation Specialist – Day Camp to plan and run inclusive day camp programs for individuals with disabilities. You will lead camps and activities, supervise part‑time staff and volunteers, manage budgets, and ensure safety and quality outcomes across sites.

The role requires CTRS/CPRP or willingness to obtain, First Aid/CPR/AED, and strong leadership. Approx.