Teens and parents, join us for the 10th annual Teen Opportunity Fairs. Hosted at three locations throughout the city, these FREE events offer information about summer opportunities in the parks for Chicago youth ages 13-19. We hope to have you with us in the parks this summer (and all year). Take advantage of this opportunity to get your summer plans set now.
Job Opportunities for ages 16+
Learn about the following positions available this summer for ages 16+, meet staff in these positions, ask them questions, and apply.
- Lifeguard*
Keep swimmers safe at beaches and pools. Stay active all summer and earn life-saving qualifications.
Learn More & Apply Now - Recreation Leader**
Lead activities and games for kids at Summer Day Camp. Develop leadership skills while working with kids and having fun! Learn More & Apply Now - Special Recreation Leader**
Special Recreation Leaders lead activities and games for kids and adults with intellectual disabilities at camp. It's the perfect job for those who want to make a difference and make lifelong friendships.
Learn More & Apply Now - Junior Laborer
Keep the parks clean and beautiful while working outside over the summer. It's an ideal position for teens looking for entry-level experience in landscape maintenance.
Learn More & Apply Now
*Must be a Chicago resident & age 16 by July 1, 2026.
**Must be a Chicago resident & age 16 by June 2026.
Additional positions are available for ages 18+.
Opportunities for ages 13-15
Learn more about special programs & resources for 13-15 year-olds.
- Meet with Chicago Park District staff to learn how to apply for upcoming RIT (Rec Leader in Training) and CIT (Counselor in Training) paid stipend-based programs.
- Join your local Teen Center and get info on this summer’s Teen Camps, as well as planned spring & summer activities and events.
- Meet onsite vendors & learn more about current and upcoming opportunities.
Saturday, February 21, 2026
at Warren Park
6601 N. Western Ave.
10 am - 1 pm
Saturday, February 28, 2026
at Malcolm X College
1900 W. Jackson Blvd.
10 am - 1 pm
Deaf & Hard of Hearing Fair
Saturday, March 7, 2026
at Brighton Park Community Campus (Park No. 596)
4830 S. Western Ave.
10 am - 1 pm
Saturday, March 14, 2026
at Kennedy-King College
740 W. 63rd Street - U Building
10 am - 1 pm
Register Now
About the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Fair
The Deaf and Hard of Hearing fair is open to all Deaf and Hard of Hearing High School teens and students currently enrolled in Transition Programs. At this fair, teens can learn about future opportunities such as college, trainings, and employment. Teens can interact with Deaf or Hard of Hearing mentors and professionals to learn about different fields and the work r
For Questions:
- About the February 21, 28 & March 14 fairs, email teensinthepark@chicagoparkdistrict.com.
- About the March 7 Deaf & Hard of Hearing fair, email sarah.faber@chicagoparkdistrict.com.