BECOME A YOUTH ENRICHMENT INSTRUCTOR
MEET OUR IMPACT MAKERS
IMPROVE YOUR FACILITATION SKILLS WHILE DEVELOPING YOUNG MINDS
COACH CALEB
CLICK HERE
Coach Caleb brings energy and teamwork to every activity he leads. With six years of experience working with kids, Caleb loves guiding team games like basketball and kickball to help kids learn communication, problem-solving, and respect. He’s passionate about creating a fun, safe environment where every child feels heard and valued. Outside of camp, Caleb enjoys playing pickleball, jamming on guitar and drums, and rooting for the Toronto Raptors.
COACH MORGAN
CLICK HERE
Morgan is back for another summer with us, bringing 3-4 years of experience from babysitting and YMCA camps. She loves sharing her passion for dance, 9-square, and GaGa ball, helping kids learn new skills and teamwork. Morgan is excited to meet the cadets, learn from their fresh perspectives, and discover new games while growing her own skills in engaging and inspiring youth.
COACH ELLIOT
CLICK HERE
Coach Elliot is all about energy, fun, and positive impact. Now in his third year working with kids, he brings a love for sports—especially soccer and Gaga Ball—and a personal goal of making camp just as meaningful for today’s youth as it was for him growing up. Whether he’s running a game or cheering kids on, Elliot helps make every session more fun. When he’s off the clock, you’ll catch him lifting weights, playing Xbox, or rooting for the Denver Broncos.
COACH KIZZY
CLICK HERE
Kizzy brings 27 years of passion and experience to youth enrichment, starting her journey as a high school volunteer reader who discovered her calling to positively impact children's futures. A proud Green Bay Packers fan, she specializes in leading dancing and arts & crafts activities that help kids have fun while trying new things. Kizzy's genuine curiosity about each child she meets drives her to learn something new from every interaction, making her sessions both meaningful and memorable for everyone involved.
YOUR PROFILE
GOES RIGHT HERE!!!
HOW IT ALL WORKS
1
Decide When
& Where You Work.
We partner with local organizations to host our programs. Once the minimum number of participants is reached we'll upload it to our list of available shifts and send out an all staff email.
If you're interested in leading a session, you'll register and assume responsibility for the facilitation of that program.
2
Make a Plan for your session.
After signing up to lead a session instructors visit our online resource portal to help them fill out their Plan Of Action form.
This form tell us how you plan to structure the session you're leading and allows our leadership team to provide feedback.
Once the plan is approved, you'll set a time to pick up your equipment.
3
Facilitate, Return Supplies & Get Paid!
After facilitating all of your program's sessions you'll set up a time to return your equipment with an Area Manager and submit a payment request via our Staff Portal.
VIEW OUR AVAILABLE POSITIONS IN ST. LOUIS, CHICAGO, & KANSAS CITY
SUMMER YOUTH ENRICHMENT INSTRUCTOR [St. Louis, MO]
Staff needed for summer break camps in Kirkwood, Shrewsberry, St. Peters and more surrounding areas. Have fun while you get paid! As a Recreation Academy Instructor, you'll have the opportunity to work with children at schools, rec centers, parks, and more. Teaching participants how to play games, learn new skills and grow from their experiences during your sessions; empowering kids to become lifelong learners. [All staff are responsible for:] -Participant management and supervision. -Effective communication with coworkers and supervisors. -Procuring supplies and planning activities prior to sessions. -Traveling (you get to choose where you go!) -Leading games and activities while promoting a learning environment. -Understanding debriefing and facilitating educational discussions. -Interacting with parents during drop-offs and pick-ups. -Providing constructive feedback. -Completing daily session summaries. -Knowing when to ask for help. Please note that staff members work independently with groups of varying sizes, depending on the program. For example, at a camp, each group will have up to 14 children before assigning another instructor and splitting the group into two smaller groups, each led by their own instructor. Even when there are multiple groups at a single site, each instructor remains responsible for their own group. All instructors will be regularly supervised by partner location staff and local Rec Academy Management. [What We Do:] After School Clubs & Extended Day - Kickball, Dodgeball, Gaga Ball, 9-Square In The Air, Domino Mega Builders (STEAM Program), Drone Racing 101, Pokémon Trading Card Game, Minecraft, & Foam Tipped Archery. (90-minute sessions, ranging from 6 - 20 participants at a time, depending on the type of program.) Camps - Summer, Winter, & Spring Day Camps. (3 - 7 hour sessions using different combinations of our popular activities, ranging from 6 - 14 participants.) Sport's Clinics - Basketball, Flag Football, & Wiffle Ball. (1 - 2 hour sessions, ranging from 6 - 20 participants) Events / Private Bookings - Games and activities for things like birthday parties, Parent's Night Out Events, and more. (1 - 3 hour sessions) [Scheduling:] Completely flexible scheduling structure you decide when / where you work and what you teach. All positions are part time and shifts are awarded on a first come first served basis via our staff portal's employee shift registration link. Full time availability during the summer months. [Pay Range:] Base pay for all instructors depends on contract term length. 9-Month School Year Contract = Base Pay Rate of $17.50 per hour, with a $30 per day minimum. 3-Month Summer Only Contract = Base Pay Rate of $17.50 per hour. Both contracts include performance-based pay raise opportunities. [Applicants must meet each these requirements:] -Valid CPR / First Aid Certification. -All staff must be 18+ years old. -At least 1+ Years of applicable experience at a youth organization. -Have a valid Driver's License and an insured vehicle. -Have or obtain prior to working a shift a mandated reporter certification for the state you're in. -Watch a 25-minute training video. -Complete 4 training modules via our online staff portal. -Be an excellent communicator. -Pass a state and federal background check + sex offender registry check. *All Recreation Academy instructor positions are part time by nature and staff are brought on as Independent 1099 Contractors. This means that: 1.) We will not withhold taxes from your pay. 2.) Our organization does not provide Workman's Comp insurance or unemployment benefits. 3.) By working with us you agree that you have your own health insurance and will cover any unexpected injuries that may occur while performing the duties of your job.
SCHOOL YEAR YOUTH ENRICHMENT INSTRUCTOR [St. Louis, MO]
Staff needed for school year enrichment, school break camps and sports clinic programs in Kirkwood, Shrewsberry, St. Peters, Ladue, University City and more surrounding areas. Have fun while you get paid! As a Recreation Academy Instructor, you'll have the opportunity to work with children at schools, rec centers, parks, and more. Teaching participants how to play games, learn new skills and grow from their experiences during your sessions; empowering kids to become lifelong learners. [All staff are responsible for:] -Participant management and supervision. -Effective communication with coworkers and supervisors. -Procuring supplies and planning activities prior to sessions. -Traveling (you get to choose where you go!) -Leading games and activities while promoting a learning environment. -Understanding debriefing and facilitating educational discussions. -Interacting with parents during drop-offs and pick-ups. -Providing constructive feedback. -Completing daily session summaries. -Knowing when to ask for help. Please note that staff members work independently with groups of varying sizes, depending on the program. For example, at a camp, each group will have up to 14 children before assigning another instructor and splitting the group into two smaller groups, each led by their own instructor. Even when there are multiple groups at a single site, each instructor remains responsible for their own group. All instructors will be regularly supervised by partner location staff and local Rec Academy Management. [What We Do:] After School Clubs & Extended Day - Kickball, Dodgeball, Gaga Ball, 9-Square In The Air, Domino Mega Builders (STEAM Program), Drone Racing 101, Pokémon Trading Card Game, Minecraft, & Foam Tipped Archery. (90-minute sessions, ranging from 6 - 20 participants at a time, depending on the type of program.) Camps - Summer, Winter, & Spring Day Camps. (3 - 7 hour sessions using different combinations of our popular activities, ranging from 6 - 14 participants.) Sport's Clinics - Basketball, Flag Football, & Wiffle Ball. (1 - 2 hour sessions, ranging from 6 - 20 participants) Events / Private Bookings - Games and activities for things like birthday parties, Parent's Night Out Events, and more. (1 - 3 hour sessions) [Scheduling:] Completely flexible scheduling structure you decide when / where you work and what you teach. All positions are part time and shifts are awarded on a first come first served basis via our staff portal's employee shift registration link. Full time availability during the summer months. [Pay Range:] Base pay for all instructors depends on contract term length. 9-Month School Year Contract = Base Pay Rate of $17.50 per hour, with a $30 per day minimum. 3-Month Summer Only Contract = Base Pay Rate of $17.50 per hour. Both contracts include performance-based pay raise opportunities. [Applicants must meet each these requirements:] -Valid CPR / First Aid Certification. -All staff must be 18+ years old. -At least 1+ Years of applicable experience at a youth organization. -Have a valid Driver's License and an insured vehicle. -Have or obtain prior to working a shift a mandated reporter certification for the state you're in. -Watch a 25-minute training video. -Complete 4 training modules via our online staff portal. -Be an excellent communicator. -Pass a state and federal background check + sex offender registry check. *All Recreation Academy instructor positions are part time by nature and staff are brought on as Independent 1099 Contractors. This means that: 1.) We will not withhold taxes from your pay. 2.) Our organization does not provide Workman's Comp insurance or unemployment benefits. 3.) By working with us you agree that you have your own health insurance and will cover any unexpected injuries that may occur while performing the duties of your job.
SUMMER YOUTH ENRICHMENT INSTRUCTOR [Chicago, IL]
Staff needed for summer break camps in Yorkville, Sugar Grove, and more surrounding areas. Have fun while you get paid! As a Recreation Academy Instructor, you'll have the opportunity to work with children at schools, rec centers, parks, and more. Teaching participants how to play games, learn new skills and grow from their experiences during your sessions; empowering kids to become lifelong learners. [All staff are responsible for:] -Participant management and supervision. -Effective communication with coworkers and supervisors. -Procuring supplies and planning activities prior to sessions. -Traveling (you get to choose where you go!) -Leading games and activities while promoting a learning environment. -Understanding debriefing and facilitating educational discussions. -Interacting with parents during drop-offs and pick-ups. -Providing constructive feedback. -Completing daily session summaries. -Knowing when to ask for help. Please note that staff members work independently with groups of varying sizes, depending on the program. For example, at a camp, each group will have up to 14 children before assigning another instructor and splitting the group into two smaller groups, each led by their own instructor. Even when there are multiple groups at a single site, each instructor remains responsible for their own group. All instructors will be regularly supervised by partner location staff and local Rec Academy Management. [What We Do:] After School Clubs & Extended Day - Kickball, Dodgeball, Gaga Ball, 9-Square In The Air, Domino Mega Builders (STEAM Program), Drone Racing 101, Pokémon Trading Card Game, Minecraft, & Foam Tipped Archery. (90-minute sessions, ranging from 6 - 20 participants at a time, depending on the type of program.) Camps - Summer, Winter, & Spring Day Camps. (3 - 7 hour sessions using different combinations of our popular activities, ranging from 6 - 14 participants.) Sport's Clinics - Basketball, Flag Football, & Wiffle Ball. (1 - 2 hour sessions, ranging from 6 - 20 participants) Events / Private Bookings - Games and activities for things like birthday parties, Parent's Night Out Events, and more. (1 - 3 hour sessions) [Scheduling:] Completely flexible scheduling structure you decide when / where you work and what you teach. All positions are part time and shifts are awarded on a first come first served basis via our staff portal's employee shift registration link. Full time availability during the summer months. [Pay Range:] Base pay for all instructors depends on contract term length. 9-Month School Year Contract = Base Pay Rate of $17.50 per hour, with a $30 per day minimum. 3-Month Summer Only Contract = Base Pay Rate of $17.50 per hour. Both contracts include performance-based pay raise opportunities. [Applicants must meet each these requirements:] -Valid CPR / First Aid Certification. -All staff must be 18+ years old. -At least 1+ Years of applicable experience at a youth organization. -Have a valid Driver's License and an insured vehicle. -Have or obtain prior to working a shift a mandated reporter certification for the state you're in. -Watch a 25-minute training video. -Complete 4 training modules via our online staff portal. -Be an excellent communicator. -Pass a state and federal background check + sex offender registry check. *All Recreation Academy instructor positions are part time by nature and staff are brought on as Independent 1099 Contractors. This means that: 1.) We will not withhold taxes from your pay. 2.) Our organization does not provide Workman's Comp insurance or unemployment benefits. 3.) By working with us you agree that you have your own health insurance and will cover any unexpected injuries that may occur while performing the duties of your job.
SCHOOL YEAR YOUTH ENRICHMENT INSTRUCTOR [Chicago, IL]
Staff needed for school year enrichment, school break camps and sports clinic programs in Yorkville, Sugar Grove, Carol Streams and more surrounding areas. Have fun while you get paid! As a Recreation Academy Instructor, you'll have the opportunity to work with children at schools, rec centers, parks, and more. Teaching participants how to play games, learn new skills and grow from their experiences during your sessions; empowering kids to become lifelong learners. [All staff are responsible for:] -Participant management and supervision. -Effective communication with coworkers and supervisors. -Procuring supplies and planning activities prior to sessions. -Traveling (you get to choose where you go!) -Leading games and activities while promoting a learning environment. -Understanding debriefing and facilitating educational discussions. -Interacting with parents during drop-offs and pick-ups. -Providing constructive feedback. -Completing daily session summaries. -Knowing when to ask for help. Please note that staff members work independently with groups of varying sizes, depending on the program. For example, at a camp, each group will have up to 14 children before assigning another instructor and splitting the group into two smaller groups, each led by their own instructor. Even when there are multiple groups at a single site, each instructor remains responsible for their own group. All instructors will be regularly supervised by partner location staff and local Rec Academy Management. [What We Do:] After School Clubs & Extended Day - Kickball, Dodgeball, Gaga Ball, 9-Square In The Air, Domino Mega Builders (STEAM Program), Drone Racing 101, Pokémon Trading Card Game, Minecraft, & Foam Tipped Archery. (90-minute sessions, ranging from 6 - 20 participants at a time, depending on the type of program.) Camps - Summer, Winter, & Spring Day Camps. (3 - 7 hour sessions using different combinations of our popular activities, ranging from 6 - 14 participants.) Sport's Clinics - Basketball, Flag Football, & Wiffle Ball. (1 - 2 hour sessions, ranging from 6 - 20 participants) Events / Private Bookings - Games and activities for things like birthday parties, Parent's Night Out Events, and more. (1 - 3 hour sessions) [Scheduling:] Completely flexible scheduling structure you decide when / where you work and what you teach. All positions are part time and shifts are awarded on a first come first served basis via our staff portal's employee shift registration link. Full time availability during the summer months. [Pay Range:] Base pay for all instructors depends on contract term length. 9-Month School Year Contract = Base Pay Rate of $17.50 per hour, with a $30 per day minimum. 3-Month Summer Only Contract = Base Pay Rate of $17.50 per hour. Both contracts include performance-based pay raise opportunities. [Applicants must meet each these requirements:] -Valid CPR / First Aid Certification. -All staff must be 18+ years old. -At least 1+ Years of applicable experience at a youth organization. -Have a valid Driver's License and an insured vehicle. -Have or obtain prior to working a shift a mandated reporter certification for the state you're in. -Watch a 25-minute training video. -Complete 4 training modules via our online staff portal. -Be an excellent communicator. -Pass a state and federal background check + sex offender registry check. *All Recreation Academy instructor positions are part time by nature and staff are brought on as Independent 1099 Contractors. This means that: 1.) We will not withhold taxes from your pay. 2.) Our organization does not provide Workman's Comp insurance or unemployment benefits. 3.) By working with us you agree that you have your own health insurance and will cover any unexpected injuries that may occur while performing the duties of your job.
SCHOOL YEAR BRANCH AREA MANAGER [Kansas City, MO]
Area Manager needed to launch and oversee enrichment programs, school break camps, and sports clinics throughout Kansas City and surrounding areas. We're just launching in KC and need someone who wants to put the effort into making this branch successful and is interested in growing with the location! Lead while you get paid! As a Recreation Academy Area Manager, you'll supervise 10-30 staff members while facilitating programs at schools, rec centers, parks, and more. You'll be responsible for quality control, logistics coordination, and staff development while teaching participants how to play games, learn new skills and grow from their experiences; empowering both kids and staff to become lifelong learners. [All Area Managers are responsible for:] -Building and establishing The Recreation Academy's presence in Kansas City. -Supervising and mentoring 10-30 instructors across multiple locations. -Quality control and program oversight to ensure consistent delivery. -Pre-program preparation including equipment management and logistics coordination. -Staff training, scheduling, and performance evaluation. -Participant management and supervision during programs. -Effective communication with coworkers, supervisors, and partner locations. -Procuring supplies and planning activities prior to sessions. -Traveling to multiple locations (you help determine coverage areas!) -Leading games and activities while promoting a learning environment. -Understanding debriefing and facilitating educational discussions with both participants and staff. -Interacting with parents during drop-offs and pick-ups. -Providing constructive feedback to participants and staff development. -Completing daily session summaries and staff evaluations. -Knowing when to escalate issues and provide support. This is a ground-floor opportunity to grow with us as we establish our Kansas City operations! Area Managers work independently while overseeing multiple groups and locations simultaneously. You must be capable of instructing all program types. Area Managers serve as the primary quality control point and may transition to part-time or full-time positions after 2+ years of demonstrated leadership excellence. [What We Do:] After School Clubs & Extended Day - Kickball, Dodgeball, Gaga Ball, 9-Square In The Air, Domino Mega Builders (STEAM Program), Drone Racing 101, Pokémon Trading Card Game, Minecraft, & Foam Tipped Archery. (90-minute sessions, ranging from 6 - 20 participants at a time, depending on the type of program.) Camps - Summer, Winter, & Spring Day Camps. (3 - 7 hour sessions using different combinations of our popular activities, ranging from 6 - 14 participants.) Sport's Clinics - Basketball, Flag Football, & Wiffle Ball. (1 - 2 hour sessions, ranging from 6 - 20 participants) Events / Private Bookings - Games and activities for things like birthday parties, Parent's Night Out Events, and more. (1 - 3 hour sessions) [Scheduling:] Flexible scheduling structure with priority placement for Area Manager shifts. All positions are part time with opportunity for increased hours through multi-location oversight. As we launch in KC, there's significant growth potential for the right candidate! Shifts awarded through our staff portal's employee shift registration system. Full time availability during summer months with potential for year-round expansion. [Pay Range:] Base pay for all instructors depends on contract term length. 9-Month School Year Contract = Base Pay Rate of $17.50 per hour, with a $30 per day minimum. 3-Month Summer Only Contract = Base Pay Rate of $17.50 per hour. Area Manager duties (logistics, training staff, quality control, etc.) are compensated at $20.00 per hour. Both contracts include performance-based pay raise opportunities. [Applicants must meet each these requirements:] -Valid CPR / First Aid Certification. -All staff must be 18+ years old. -At least 2+ years of applicable experience at a youth organization with demonstrated leadership. -Have a valid Driver's License and an insured vehicle. -Have or obtain prior to working a shift a mandated reporter certification for Missouri. -Watch a 25-minute training video. -Complete 4 training modules via our online staff portal. -Complete additional Area Manager leadership training. -Be an excellent communicator with proven staff management abilities. -Pass a state and federal background check + sex offender registry check. -Demonstrate ability to instruct all program types effectively. -Entrepreneurial mindset and enthusiasm for building something from the ground up. *All Recreation Academy Area Manager positions are part time by nature and staff are brought on as Independent 1099 Contractors. This means that: 1.) We will not withhold taxes from your pay. 2.) Our organization does not provide Workman's Comp insurance or unemployment benefits. 3.) By working with us you agree that you have your own health insurance and will cover any unexpected injuries that may occur while performing the duties of your job.
THE REVIEWS ARE IN.
St. Louis, MO
“Working here is so great! All the campers I have worked with have had a blast and really enjoy the programs we have. This organization has taught me a lot about teaching and organizing as well which is great for my future as a teacher!"
Employment FAQs - The Recreation Academy
What positions are available at The Recreation Academy?
We're actively hiring exceptional summer camp counselors, youth instructors, enrichment club facilitators, sports clinic coaches, and after-school program staff in St. Louis, Chicago, and Kansas City who are ready to take their facilitation abilities to the next level. We're seeking candidates with outstanding group control skills who can effectively manage and engage children ages 5-12 in dynamic, educational environments. The ideal candidate demonstrates natural leadership, can maintain positive group dynamics with up to 14-20 participants, and has the confidence to facilitate structured learning through fun, hands-on activities. Our positions are perfect for experienced youth workers who want to elevate their teaching and facilitation skills while making a meaningful impact through our comprehensive curriculum system. Whether you're facilitating STEM programs like Drone Racing, leading sports clinics, or running enrichment clubs, you'll need proven ability to command attention, maintain engagement, and create safe, structured learning environments where every child thrives. If you're an experienced facilitator with excellent group management skills looking to grow professionally while working with our vetted, experienced team, we want to hear from you. All positions involve direct facilitation of our signature programs that teach life skills through experiential learning, communication development, and problem-solving activities.
Are you hiring summer camp counselors near me?
Yes! We recruit summer camp counselors and accept applications through the whole year in St. Louis, MO, Chicago, IL, and Kansas City, MO. Our camp positions offer flexible scheduling and the opportunity to make a real impact on kids' lives through experiential learning. We typically need Spring, Winter, & Summer Break coverage.
Is this part-time work with flexible scheduling?
Absolutely! Our youth instructor positions are designed for maximum flexibility. Giving you the opportunity to ensure that a program fits your availability before assigning yourself to any shift. Perfect for college students, teachers, or anyone seeking meaningful part-time work with children. You can choose your availability through our SignupGenius scheduling system.
What do your Youth Enrichment Instructors earn?
All positions start at $17.50/hour, with increases to $20/hour after completing your 5th program, if done within an individual contract period. We offer competitive pay for part-time jobs working with kids, plus professional development opportunities and the satisfaction of making a difference in young lives.
How do I get paid?
You'll work as a 1099 independent contractor, giving you flexibility in your schedule and tax benefits. Payment is processed regularly for all completed programs on Tuesdays.
Are there opportunities for advancement?
Yes! Our career path includes advancement from instructor to Area Manager positions. Area Managers supervise 10-30 staff and can manage multiple locations after 2+ years of demonstrated leadership.
What are the requirements to become a Youth Enrichment Instructor?
To join our team, you need: -1+ years of youth experience -Reliable transportation -Current auto insurance -Clean background check -CPR/First Aid certification (we can help arrange) -Mandated reporter training completion -Enthusiasm for working with kids ages 5-12
Do I need experience working with children?
Yes, we require at least 1 year of experience working with youth in a professional setting. This could include coaching, camp counseling, teaching, or volunteer work with children.
What training do you provide?
All new staff complete our comprehensive training program: -25-minute training video -4 training modules covering emergencies, impact, safety, and subcontracting -Staff manual and SOPs -Senior staff observation during your first sessions -Ongoing support and professional development
How many kids will I work with?
Group sizes vary by program type: -Summer camps: Preferred 1:14 ration with a Maximum 1:16 ratio. -Enrichment clubs and sports clinics: Typically 6-18 participants depending on program type and instructor's ability. -Groups are typically age-appropriate with maximum 3-year age differences but may be combined in some situations to enable a session to still run.
What will I be teaching and how do I know what to do?
We provide comprehensive, detailed curricula for every program - from Basketball Clinics and Dance Camp Hip Hop to Playground Champions and STEM programs like Drone Racing. Each curriculum includes session-by-session breakdowns, activity instructions, equipment lists, and safety guidelines. As an instructor, you'll develop your own plan of action based on our curriculum, telling us how you'll facilitate each session within our operating procedures. This system ensures consistency while allowing you to bring your own teaching style and creativity to the programs.
Where do programs take place?
Programs are held at partner locations including parks, recreation centers, schools, and community facilities throughout St. Louis, Chicago, and Kansas City.
Can I work in multiple locations?
Yes! Many of our instructors work across different locations in their metro area. This provides more scheduling flexibility and diverse program experiences.
What about equipment and supplies?
We provide all necessary equipment for programs. You'll pick up and return equipment as part of your responsibilities. Our comprehensive equipment inventory includes everything from sports gear to STEM materials, and each curriculum comes with equipment checklists so you can plan ahead.
How does The Recreation Academy prioritize safety?
Safety is our core commitment, integrated into every aspect of our operations: -Thorough background checks for all staff -Comprehensive safety training -Clear emergency response procedures built into every curriculum -Regular parent communication -Experienced, vetted staff supervision -Proper equipment and facility standards -Detailed safety guidelines in all program curricula
What's the hiring timeline?
We hire year-round but ramp up significantly for summer camp season. Apply early for the best selection of positions and scheduling options. We can typically respond within 72 hours depending on when you apply. If you haven't heard back after that please feel free to reach back out if you're still interested to check on the status of your interview request.
Who can I contact with questions about employment?
For employment questions, contact us at: Email: info@therecreationacademy.com Phone: (314) 252-8344