Art Instructor

Job Purpose: The Arts & Crafts Instructor leads and acts as a role model to a group of children or adults in a specific area of the visual arts. Program area depends on assignment and area of expertise. Instructors develop, implement and engage participants in lessons and activities while ensuring safety. A high priority is placed on energy, creativity, communication, organization, and risk management with this position.

Essential Functions: Instruct visual art lessons to children or adults based on program description/medium assignment. Classes vary between one day workshops and 4-6 week long classes that meet once a week. Guide and develop participants individual talents to create quality visual art pieces for take home at the end of the program or workshop. Participate in maintaining cleanliness of facility and supplies as well as properly storing and organizing equipment/materials on site. Monitor and maintain the safety of all participants. Communicate with parents/guardians about daily activities and student progress when needed. Set and enforce rules and expectations. Understand, communicate, and enforce Park District rules and policies to participants and the public. Attend all staff meetings and training programs as specified. Create detailed lesson plans and calendars that include a variety of age appropriate activities to keep participants active, excited, safe, and engaged. Instruct lessons based on proper technique per assigned medium, lead the daily lesson, as well as initiate spontaneous activities to accommodate agenda conflicts/changes. Address any participant behavior/disciplinary issues with the appropriate individuals. Provide excellent customer service and maintain a positive public image by addressing questions and concerns from staff, patrons, participants, and parents immediately Manage allotted budget and retain receipts, make purchase as needed. Become familiar with participants; know their names, personalities, skills and interests. Identify and observe equipment daily for possible maintenance needs and adjustments; report maintenance needs to Supervisor. Complete all paperwork as required including, but not limited to reports and logs. Additional Functions: Occasionally assist with events and programs. Complete other duties as assigned by Supervisor or other Park District administration. Model and promote good leadership and teamwork in campers; prepare lessons and/or discussions on these topics that correlate with weekly activities Knowledge, Skill and Work Experience Required: Must have at least 1-3 years of art instructor experience. Must obtain Mandated Reporter Certification. Knowledge of age-appropriate art and/or recreational activities. Must be at least 18 years of age. Must be organized, responsible, professional, and able to coordinate a wide variety of activities. Must have the ability to solve problems as they arise and be able to perform tasks without direct supervision. Must possess basic knowledge of a variety of age appropriate activities or skills applicable to assignment. Must be highly motivated and able to assume a positive and active role in programming, even while working under potentially stressful conditions (hot or cold weather, upset or injured participants, etc.) Must have the ability to be firm with participants when necessary, enforce park district rules, and make sound decisions in order to secure the safety and well-being of all participants, facilities, and equipment. Certification in advanced Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), First Aid and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) within 3 months of employment and keep certification current. The Park District will provide this training. Recommended: Minimum 2 years of college majoring in visual or performing arts; B.A. in visual fine arts or 4 years instructing arts preferred. Experience working with youth, especially in a recreation, visual arts setting, preferred. Experience in planning and implementing daily lesson plans. Work Environment, Physical Demands and Considerations: Frequent walking, running, standing, reaching, bending. Must be able to lift up to 35 lbs. Majority of work is in the art studios/classroom; however, summer conditions may cause an affect. Ability to work independently without supervision. Ability to present ideas and recommendations in a concise manner. Ability to understand and carry out verbal and/or written instructions efficiently and effectively and to read and understand printed material. Ability to operate assigned equipment. Ability to effectively interact and communicate well with others. Ability to interpret and explain division and District policies and procedures. Ability to follow safety guidelines and exercise judgment in all aspects of responsibility. Ability to resolve conflict safely, calmly and effectively. Hours and Compensation: August-May hours vary depending on program enrollment and class offerings. Programs are open Sunday-Saturday; hours are flexible and can be built to your schedule, approximately 3-6 hours per week depending on program enrollment and your availability. Summer hours are more consistent. 8-noon M-F June-August.) $15/h-$17.50/h depending on experience. Customers: Internal: Employees of Park District External: Patrons of Park District of Oak Park; residents of Oak Park, WSSRA, Partner Organizations including governmental and non-profit groups, and the Oak Park Business Community This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, functions or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, functions, activities or responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice. The Park District of Oak Park is an equal opportunity employer!