Part-time CU Special Recreation Athletics & Inclusion Specialist

Job DetailsJob Location: CUSR Center - Champaign, IL 61821Position Type: Part-timeSalary Range: $18.25 - $18.25 HourlyChampaign Park District – Part-Time 1, Non-Exempt (hours not to exceed 29 per week on average)

About the Job

The CU Special Recreation Athletics & Inclusion Specialist plays a vital role in creating inclusive, meaningful athletic experiences for individuals with disabilities. This hands-on leadership position supports athletes, supervises inclusion staff, and helps ensure programs run smoothly, safely, and with dignity for every participant. If you’re passionate about adaptive recreation, inclusion, and making a real impact, this role offers the chance to lead, mentor, and advocate every day.

Summary of Responsibilities

Supervise, train, schedule, and evaluate Inclusion Assistants and support staff
Develop and lead adaptive athletic practices that support athletes of all abilities
Create and assist with behavior and inclusion plans, providing direct participant support
Coordinate staff assignments and respond to daily program and placement needs
Support Special Olympics programming, including paperwork, training compliance, and transportation
Serve as a liaison between CU Special Recreation staff, Park District staff, participants, and families
Lead staff meetings and contribute to ongoing staff training and development
Maintain required certifications and ensure safety, professionalism, and confidentiality at all times
Participate actively in programs, including sports, swimming, and other physical activities

Why Work With Us?

Make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities
Build leadership, supervision, and adaptive recreation skills
Gain hands-on experience in inclusive program design and behavior support
Work alongside passionate professionals in a collaborative, mission-driven environment
Receive comprehensive training and professional development opportunities

Benefits & Perks for Part Time Employees

Part Time employees with the Champaign Park District have access to:

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
20% discount on qualified room and shelter/pavilion rentals for employees and immediate household members
Free drink & popcorn at the Virginia Theatre when showing your Park District badge
Recognition Programs:

Posi Bucks appreciation rewards
Impact Awards ($50 award for approved nominations)
Keeva Keeling Outstanding Employee of the Year recognition


Cell phone carrier discounts
AFLAC group-rate voluntary benefit options
SPOT Pet Insurance group discount

About the Champaign Park District

The Champaign Park District’s mission is to enhance our community’s quality of life through positive experiences in parks, recreation, and cultural arts. With 62 parks spanning more than 700 acres and 14 facilities offering diverse recreational opportunities, we provide spaces and programs that bring people together, inspire healthy living, and celebrate creativity.

Who This Position Is Ideal For

This role is ideal for someone who is compassionate, proactive, and energized by inclusive recreation. You’ll thrive if you enjoy leading others, adapting activities to meet diverse needs, and working directly with individuals with disabilities. Candidates with experience in therapeutic recreation, special education, or adaptive athletics—and a genuine passion for inclusion—are encouraged to apply.

The Champaign Park District is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status. We are committed to providing a workplace that is free from discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employees are required to comply with our equal opportunity and harassment laws, policies, and procedures.Qualifications
Minimum of twenty-one (21) years old 
Coursework and/or experience in therapeutic recreation, recreation, special education or related areas 
Demonstrated experience in a supervisory capacity 
Minimum of one (1) year of experience with individuals with disabilities of various ages and diagnosis 
Ability to adapt and modify activities 
Ability to create practice plans 
Ability to lead practices and delegate duties to support staff 
Ability to create behavior plans and instruct CU Special Recreation staff on implementation of behavior plans. 
Ability to work independently and in a team environment 
Passionate about helping individuals with disabilities. 
Clear verbal and written communication. Active listening, understanding diverse needs and concerns.