Program Assistant - Programs and Events

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. Some nights and weekends will be required.

Program Assistants create, lead and organize environmental education, community recreation programs, and small-scale special events for all ages and assist full-time staff with other program or large event needs.

Goals and Objectives

• Fulfill CWPD mission through program offerings


• Create new fitness, wellness, outdoor education and/or recreation programs


• Implement events and programs desired or needed by the community


• Execute fitness and wellness programming, camps, and special events for children and adults

Duties and Responsibilities

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


• Lead established fitness-based programs, such as hiking and Nordic walking, and create new programs based on expertise 


• Plan and lead the implementation of small-scale special events, such as Family Fun Tennis Day, Fun Runs, and Dog events


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


• Research industry trends in health, fitness, and recreation 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 with fitness-based programming for children and/or adults


• Knowledge of how to effectively manage and create a program


• Group and program leadership skills


• Communicate with staff, partners, and the public with both spoken and written word


• Ability to provide appropriate information to a wide range of ages and abilities


• 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 coordinating fitness, recreation, or outdoor programming


• Undergraduate degree completed or in progress in a related field such as parks and recreation, outdoor education, education, physical education, exercise science, kinesiology, athletic training, or closely related