Program Assistant - Camps and Programs

Deadline to apply: August 8, 2025. Position will stay open until filled, if not by then.

Average of 16 hours/week. This will consist of set office hours. Supervisors will work with your schedule to build a schedule. Some nights and weekends will be required.

Program Assistants create, lead and organize nature camps, community recreation and outdoor education programs for all ages and assist full-time staff with program or event needs.

The Camps and Programs Assistant will be tasked with the following seasonal responsibilities:

• September – April: Craft-based, Community Recreation, Outdoor Education and Special Event programming


• Fall and Winter Day Camps - the focus will be assisting with camp planning and implementation


• May – August: the focus will be assisting with Nature Day Camp planning and implementation

Goals and Objectives

• Fulfill CWPD mission through camp and program offerings


• Assist in planning and facilitating community, outdoor, special event and/or recreation programs (September – April)


• Assist in the planning, facilitation and implementation of Nature Day Camps, Fall Camps and Winter Camps for children ages 3-12


• Create brand new programs that meet needs and desires of the community (September – April)

Duties and Responsibilities

• Create “fun, healthy and outstanding park experience that connects the community with the outdoors”


• Assist in planning and leading various park programs


• Assist in the success of our Nature Day Camps, Fall Camps and Winter Camps


• Project professionalism at programs to continue a positive public response toward the Park District


• Research industry trends and apply when appropriate


• Offer new program ideas, and improvements to existing programs


• Obtain/prepare all items necessary for each program


• Set-up and clean-up of program locations


• Represent CWPD in a professional manner with residents, customers, etc.


• Make recommendations and purchases of program equipment and supplies


• Follow CWPD brand guidelines

Key Technical Skills and Knowledge Required

• Proven experience working with children, especially ages 3 – 12 years old


• Knowledge of how to effectively manage and create a program


• Group and program leadership skills


• Communicate with staff, partners, and the public through verbal and electronic means


• Experience with arts and crafts, nature education, or recreation programming


• Prepare periodic reports, maintain files and records using standard office software


• Maintain First Aid, CPR, AED, and Bloodborne Pathogen certifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Be able to lift objects up to 50 lbs.


• Be able to read, write, and follow oral and written instructions


• Pass a pre-employment drug test, physical examination and background check


• Possess either a High School or General Education Diploma

Preferred Qualifications

• 1 to 2 years experience facilitating recreation or outdoor programming


• Undergraduate degree completed or in progress in a related field, such as education, outdoor recreation, arts, or similar fields