Artcraft Instructor

Artcraft Instructor

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 include:

• Planning and implementing a course curriculum for the instruction of artcraft activities in one or more related areas of specialization.
• Providing instruction and supervision for Park District patrons involved in artcraft activities.
• Demonstrating proper techniques and skills for artcraft activities.
• Adapting programs to reflect differing levels of participant skill development.
• Enforcing and promoting safety guidelines for artcraft programs.
• Developing, promoting and organizing cultural groups, clubs, displays, exhibits and demonstrations sponsored by the Park District.
• Collaborating with recreation staff or other Park District personnel on special projects, including day camp programs.
• Encouraging creativity in participants.
• Communicating constructively with participants, parents, volunteers and the community.
• Consulting with individuals and community groups to determine their recreation interests, needs and desires.
• Issuing and maintaining an inventory of equipment, tools, supplies and other materials used in artcraft programs.
• Demonstrating and providing instructions in the proper use of equipment, tools and supplies.
• Setting up and preparing special artcraft projects and equipment.
• Supervising unorganized play and enforcing Park District rules and regulations at assigned locations.
• Attending workshops and in-service training seminars.
• Staying abreast of current methods, techniques and trends in artcraft specialties.
• Judging at competitions and special events.
• Performing 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 1/1/2027.
• 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: $26.63 per hour

Budgeted hours:
Up to 28 hours per week

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