Join our team
Build opportunities for Chicago’s young people through the power of play.
Current Openings
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Recess Coach
Are you passionate about youth development? Have a knack for coaching and leading activities with young people? Do you enjoy working in a school setting? Our Recess Coach position may be PERFECT for you! The Recess Coach is responsible for implementing the recess schedule for all K-8 school-age youth, expanding SEL knowledge school-wide, and being a proactive team member within their school environment. Recess schedules include but are not limited to, structured play, transitions, and lunchroom support.
Why Work At Urban Initiatives
Work That Builds Opportunity. Talented People. Lasting Impact.
A Mission That Matters
Play is serious. Whether you work directly with young people or behind the scenes, your work builds relationships, strengthens skills, and expands opportunity across Chicago. Every role gives young people the confidence, connections, and opportunities they need to succeed.
A Team That Grows Together
We believe strong organizations are built through collaboration, curiosity, accountability, and continuous learning. We coach one another the same way we coach young people: with high expectations, support, and care. As we grow, we remain committed to helping our people grow with us.
Making an Impact
We reach more than 100,000 young people each year through schools, community partnerships, youth employment, and adult learning. Every role strengthens the people, partnerships, and systems that expand opportunity for young people.
Invest in quality coaches
Invest in quality coaches
Invest in quality coaches
Invest in quality coaches
Invest in quality coaches
Enlist support from diverse networks of families, schools, and community members
Enlist support from diverse networks of families, schools, and community members
Enlist support from diverse networks of families, schools, and community members
Develop social-emotional learning through play
Develop social-emotional learning through play
Develop social-emotional learning through play
Use our network to help students build social capital
Use our network to help students build social capital
Use our network to help students build social capital
Company Benefits
Benefits That Support You
Supporting our people is essential to achieving our mission. We offer a competitive benefits package for eligible employees that supports health, well-being, and professional growth.
Benefits for eligible positions may include:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance options
- 401(k) with up to a 3% employer match after one year of employment
- Employer-paid life, short-term disability, and long-term disability insurance
- Paid time off and paid holidays
- Flexible work arrangements for eligible positions
- Professional learning and development opportunities
Benefits vary based on position and employment status. Details are shared during the hiring process.
Empowering Youth
Urban Initiatives uses the power of sport and play to empower Chicago’s youth to achieve academic success, develop social-emotional skills, and build social capital. Our work is in its 20th year of changing lives.
Making an Impact
We believe that play has the power to make Chicago safer, more equitable, and more connected. See students, coaches, and parents share why they think play is serious. We’re growing to meet needs for more of the city’s youth.
