Artcraft Instructor

Title: Artcraft Instructor

 
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS: Under general supervision, responsible for developing, teaching and leading artcraft activities for the Park District, in one or more related areas of specialization including, but not limited to, sewing, ceramics, painting, illustrating and handicrafts. Performs related duties as required. 
 
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES: 

• Plans and implements a course curriculum for the instruction of artcraft activities in one or more related areas of specialization.  
• Provides instruction and supervision for Park District patrons involved in artcraft activities. Demonstrates proper techniques and skills for artcraft activities.  
• Adapts programs to reflect differing levels of participant skill development. Enforces and promotes safety guidelines for artcraft programs. 
• Develops, promotes and organizes cultural groups, clubs, displays, exhibits and demonstrations sponsored by the Park District.  
• Collaborates with recreation staff or other Park District personnel on special projects, including day camp programs.  
• Encourages creativity in participants.  
• Communicates constructively with participants, parents, volunteers and the community. 
• Consults with individuals and community groups to determine their recreation interests, needs and desires. 
• Issues and maintains an inventory of equipment, tools, supplies and other materials used in artcraft programs.  
• Demonstrates and provides instructions in the proper used of equipment, tools and supplies. 
• Sets up and prepares special artcraft projects and equipment.  
• Supervises unorganized play and enforces Park District rules and regulations at assigned locations.  
• Attends workshops and in-service training seminars.  
• Stays abreast of current methods, techniques and trends in artcraft specialties.  
• Judges at competitions and special events. 
• Performs general administrative duties including but not limited to: assisting in course registration, collection of fees, routine record keeping and promoting artcraft programs.  
• May solicit fabric and other material donations from local businesses and other organizations. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 
Training and Experience: An Associate of Arts Degree or completion of two full years of course work at an accredited College or University which included a minimum of 20 credit hours in one or more of the following areas, including Art, Fashion Design, Home Economics or a related area of specialization, or graduation from High School or the equivalent GED and three full years of closely related instructional or practical experience in recreation, cultural or business environment, or an equivalent combination of education and experience is required. 
 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Knowledge of a variety of artcraft skills and techniques including sewing, drawing, painting, ceramics and two and three dimensional design. Elementary knowledge of leisure and recreation theories and principles. Effective oral and written communication skills. Technical knowledge and skill in one or more areas of artcraft specialization. 

BENEFITS: As a part-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:   

• $1.00/hour increase on 1/1/2026. 
• $1.00/hour increase on 1/1/2027. 
• 1 day of personal leave at the commencement of each quarter, accrued on a pro rata basis.  
• 2 days of sick leave at the commencement of each quarter, accrued on a pro rata basis.  
• After one year of employment, employees who work 1,040 hours or more in the previous year are typically eligible for between 7-10 workdays of paid vacation time annually, and additional time after first 5 years of employment.  
• 12 weeks of paid parental leave (upon meeting FMLA eligibility requirements).   
• Pension plan through the Park Employees' and Retirement Board Employees' Annuity and Benefit Fund, a system covered by the State of Illinois' Reciprocal Act.  
• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility. 
• Free Admission to most Chicago Museums.  

RATE OF PAY: $25.63 per hour 

SEIU Local 73           Career Service           EEO: Para-professional       FLSA: Non-Exempt