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

About the position The Mt. Prospect Park District, established in 1955, is a large park district serving over a quarter million residents across 11 square miles. It offers extensive recreational programs, events, parks, and facilities, including two outdoor pools, biking paths, and space for athletic programming. The district is recognized for its outstanding workplace and commitment to a thriving multi-generational community. This role is for a Part-Time IMRF (Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund Pension) Early Childhood and Youth Coordinator responsible for managing School Day-Off programs, seasonal camps, and supporting daily operations of Early Childhood and Youth programs. The position may also involve substituting, transporting participants, or filling other roles within the programs as needed. The role requires year-round availability, working approximately 20-25 hours per week (less than 1,500 hours annually), primarily Monday through Friday from 9 am to 2 pm, with potential for evening or weekend events. The position requires the candidate to be at least 21 years old, possess a valid driver's license, and pass a criminal background check.

Responsibilities

• Communicate and collaborate daily with the Early Childhood and Youth Manager and Youth Program Supervisor.
• Assist in the planning, coordination, implementation, and evaluation of School Day-Off programs and seasonal camps, ensuring high-quality participant experiences and operational efficiency.
• Assist with 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.
• Assist 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.
• Assist 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.
• Assist with obtaining supplies and materials for programs and perform errands as required.
• Support day-to-day office and program operations.
• Assist with 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.
• Assist with 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.
• Serve as a substitute staff member when required.
• Assist with planning and developing department special events.
• Work occasional nights and/or weekends for special events as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Early Childhood and Youth Manager, Director of Recreation, and/or Executive Director.
• In emergency situations, perform all other duties as required.

Requirements

• Must be 21 years or older.
• Possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
• Must be available for year-round employment.
• 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.
• 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.
• Regular and reliable attendance is an essential function of the position.

Nice-to-haves

• Bachelor’s degree in recreation, education, social work, or a related field preferred; coursework in these areas acceptable.
• Demonstrated experience in program coordination, staff supervision, and decision-making in a dynamic environment preferred.

Benefits

• Park district facility and programming usage benefits
• Vacation pay
• Holiday pay
• IMRF pension benefits
• Deferred compensation savings plan