Program Assistant - Night Out in the Parks

partTime

Part-time
,

submitted by
Krista Bryski Richard

posted on
01.09.2026

contact
[email protected]
Program Assistant - Night Out in the Parks

Program Description:
Celebrating 14 years in 2026, Night Out in the Parks (NOITP) brings neighbors together to laugh, dance, sing, and engage, activating parks with robust cultural events. Since its inception, NOITP has provided thousands of hours of safe, diverse, and unique arts programming where artists and audiences can connect and celebrate Chicago’s rich cultural tapestry in neighborhood parks.

With generous support from the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), NOITP produces hundreds of free cultural events annually for patrons in parks citywide, in all 77 community areas of Chicago. Over 100 local artists and organizations partner with parks annually to create rich, diverse experiences while building and bonding with their communities.

Job Description:
The Night Out in the Parks Program Assistant will liaise with artists and organizations to coordinate cultural events for the 2026 Night Out in the Parks series. This position will manage scheduled events from the early planning stages through production, execution, and postproduction. This work involves assessing the needs of Arts Partners and Park personnel to create mutually beneficial relationships and successful events.

Job Responsibilities

• Serve on the Night Out in the Parks Team as a liaison between partners and parks
• Familiarize yourself with the Night Out in the Parks (NOITP) program and mission to effectively communicate with various constituents
• Prepare contract information for assigned partners as needed
• Schedule public programs and events
• Coordinate onsite logistics for events with partners, including select site visits to parks
• Execute events on-site, which include setting up event equipment such as pop-up tents, information tables, signage, and activities. Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds
• Marketing support - sharing guidelines, reinforcing deadlines, assisting with the distribution of promo materials
• Collect data and documentation related to events
• Provide overall support to Night Out in the Parks managers and coordinators

Availability to work a minimum of two weekends per month and three events per week is required for on-site events.

Preferred Experience, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Proven organizational and time management skills, with strong attention to detail
• Proactive approach with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Ability to effectively communicate with NOITP Arts Partners, Chicago Park District staff, community organization administrators, and other representatives
• Prior experience in contracting processes, event setup, and execution
• Knowledge of record-keeping and data-collection practices
• Familiarity with Chicago’s performing arts landscape, neighborhoods, and communities
• Proficient in MS Word, Excel, and Google suite, and capable of learning new technology tools as needed
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions and maintain a flexible schedule to meet program needs, including regular evenings, early mornings, and weekends
• Cultural competency in working with a diverse range of communities

Desirable Minimum Qualifications:

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s degree in Arts Administration, Event Planning/Production, or related field, supplemented by 2-3 years of event planning, arts management, or related experience; or an equivalent combination of training and experience is required.

Timeline:
February 9 - September 18, 2026 = 32 weeks
Approximately 25-30 hours/week

Salary:
This is a contract position
Bi-weekly payments based on the invoice

Selected candidates will be subject to a background check (fingerprint scan).

To apply, please send a resume/CV and letter of interest to [email protected] by
January 16, 2026.

Contact Info:
Night Out in the Parks
[email protected]
312-742-7529

Job Type: Freelance/Contract/Temp

Compensation: $20,000 invoiced every two weeks for 32 weeks

Location: Chicago