Senior Program Specialist - Inferno

Title: Senior Program Specialist 

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS: Under supervision, provides leadership and direction in assigned program areas.  Manages special projects, programs and new initiatives.  Perform related duties as required.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES:

• Coordinates special programs and projects with department staff. 
• Establishes external partnerships. 
• Represents the Park District with outside agencies, locally and nationwide. 
• Presents department goals and vision to outside agencies. 
• Plays a leadership role in developing and disseminating program information city wide. 
• Consults on program training needs. 
• Assesses local park programs. 
• Develops program standards and guidelines. 
• Provides technical assistance to local parks as assigned. 
• Develops an coordinates new program initiatives. 
• Oversees data collection where appropriate. 
• Oversees budget and staffing.  
• Supervises staff. 
• Performs related duties as assigned or required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Training and Experience: 
A bachelor’s degree in education, recreation/leisure studies or a related discipline in social services, cultural enrichment, sports management or environmental education, plus six years of programming, teaching or project management experience with a community-based recreation agency.  An extensive background in one of the five core areas is highly desirable.  Master’s degree in education or recreation/leisure studies with a concentration in program development and cultural diversity is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Evidence of customer service focus practices.
• Knowledge of education and curriculum design principles. 
• Ability to understand and implement elements of community-based programming.
• Ability to evaluate programs based on value to program participants and industry standards. 
• Ability to work cooperatively with community groups and city agencies.
• Ability to manage and supervise staff. 
• Ability to handle multiple projects. 
• Ability to work independently. 
• High level of organizational and project management skills. 
• Budget preparation and planning skills. 
• Computer skills.

Disclaimer:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Job duties are to be performed with or without reasonable accommodations.

BENEFITS:
As a full-time Chicago Park District employee, eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefits package including:  

• Competitive Group Insurance benefits including health, life, dental and vision plans.  
• 13-20 days of paid vacation time annually (13 days in first year of employment).  
• 12 days of paid sick time annually which carryover year to year.  
• 4 paid personal days per year.  
• 13 paid holidays per year. 
• 12 weeks of paid parental leave (upon meeting FMLA eligibility). 
• Pension plan through the Park Employees' and Retirement Board Employees' Annuity and Benefit Fund, a system covered by the State of Illinois' Reciprocal Act. 
• Deferred Compensation Program – voluntary supplemental retirement plan.  
• Optional pre-tax programs – Transit  
• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility.  
• Free Admission to most Chicago museums. 

 

Rate of Pay: $78,823.20 annually 

 

Career Service: Exempt                                                   EEO:  Professional                                         FLSA: Exempt

                                                                                                                                                                              Approved: 5/12/99