Therapeutic Recreation Specialist - Special Events & Camps

Northern Suburban Special Recreation Association

Location: Highland Park, IL 60035, US
Employment Type: FULL_TIME
Industry: Advertising and Public Relations
Occupational Category: 39-9032.00 – Personal Care and Service
Posted: Friday, 28 August 2026
Valid Through: Sunday, 27 September 2026

Job Description

Northern Suburban Special Recreation Association is hiring a Therapeutic Recreation Specialist - Special Events & Camps in Highland Park, IL. This is a full-time position.

At NSSRA, we believe that everyone deserves the chance to play. Formed in 1970 with that goal in mind, we were the first Special Recreation Association in the country, offering programs and services for children, teens, and adults with disabilities. We are similar to a park district; however, we only serve residents in our partner communities with special needs. Fifty years later, we serve approximately 1, 600 individuals throughout the year in the northern suburbs of Chicago. Were all about creating an environment of belonging through play, and we want you to be a part of our team! ABOUT THE JOB Members of Team NSSRA are dedicated individuals with enthusiasm and initiative. The Recreation Specialist is responsible for the coordination and implementation of safe, high-quality recreation services for individuals with disabilities. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Under the supervision and direction of the Recreation Manager, work as a team to coordinate, supervise, implement, and evaluate camps and special events.Develop comprehensive knowledge of camps to serve as the key liaison for new and current employees in this area.Develop comprehensive knowledge of special events to serve as the key liaison for new and current participants and families in this area.Attend meetings and conduct program-specific educational sessions for camps and special events as necessary.Recruit staff, respond to inquiries about camps and special events, and anticipate future program offerings.Lead recreational programs for youth and adults on a seasonal basis with a rotating assignment schedule ABOUT YOU Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelors degree in therapeutic recreation, recreation administration, special education, adaptive physical education, or a related field OR any bachelors degree and a minimum of three years full-time equivalent experience in therapeutic recreation, recreation administration, special education, adaptive physical education, or a related field.Have, obtain, or sit for the NCTRC (National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification) within one (1) year of employment is preferred.Demonstrable knowledge of disabilities and the recreational needs of persons with disabilities without exclusion.Knowledge and/or training in the area of therapeutic recreation, recreation, special education, adaptive physical education, or a related field.A valid Illinois Drivers License and personal transportation to accomplish position responsibilities. SCHEDULING & PAY This is a full-time, year-round position that requires evening and weekend work. Salary is $58, 132.00 - $69, 758.50 a year, dependent on qualifications. BENEFITS WE OFFER NSSRA offers a generous benefit package which includes: medical, prescription and dental coverage, vision reimbursement, life insurance, pension plan, and paid time off. The position is open until filled. Please apply early as recruitment and interviewing will begin immediately. NSSRA is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Education Requirements

high school

Skills

Please see the job description for required or recommended skills.

Benefits

Please see the job description for benefits.

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Index requested: 08/28/2026 18:22:38 • Indexed: 08/28/2026 18:22:38