The Chicago Park District is a municipal government agency that has overseen the city's public parks, facilities, and recreational programming since its founding in 1934. Its mission centers on community engagement and wellness across more than 600 parks spanning over 8,800 acres of green space. The district also manages 28 miles of lakefront, 23 swimming beaches, and an extensive network of 78 indoor and outdoor pools.
The agency's core offering is a wide range of recreational programs delivered in four seasonal sessions each year. These programs cover aquatics, arts and culture, camps, gymnastics, nature education, sports, wellness, early childhood education, and special recreation services, serving individuals of all ages, identities, and abilities.
Employment at the Chicago Park District spans diverse roles, from administrative positions to specialized field work such as Sailing Instructors, Cultural Enrichment Managers, and Tree Surgeons. Staff are united by a focus on improving quality of life in Chicago's neighborhoods through public service.
