Prairie Farm Leader

Champaign-Park-District; Champaign (IL); On-site; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Training opportunities

Certifications available (First Aid,,

Harassment prevention training

Job summary

The Champaign Park District is seeking a Prairie Farm Leader for a seasonal, non-exempt role not to exceed six months. You’ll help bring Prairie Farm to life through hands-on animal care, educational programming, and safe, engaging experiences for visitors of all ages.

Ideal candidates are 16+, enthusiastic about outdoors and education, and able to lift up to 40 lbs. Training and certifications may be provided, and the district emphasizes equal opportunity employment.

Qualifications

• Assist with educational programs and activities.
• Provide daily care for farm animals including feeding and cleaning.
• Maintain clean, safe animal areas and facilities.
• Interact positively with participants, visitors, and caregivers.
• Follow safety policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Assist with educational programs and activities at Prairie Farm.
• Provide daily care for farm animals, including feeding and cleaning.
• Maintain clean, safe, and organized animal areas, facilities, and grounds.
• Interact positively with participants, visitors, and caregivers.
• Support special events and seasonal activities.
• Follow safety policies and operational procedures.
• Use equipment and supplies responsibly.
• Attend required meetings and training sessions.
• Perform lifting up to 40 lbs, walking and bending as needed.

Skills

Animal care

Public engagement

Teamwork

Communication

Physical fitness

Outdoor education

Education

High school student

Job description

Prairie Farm LeaderChampaign Park District – Seasonal, Non-Exempt (not to exceed six months)About the JobLove working outdoors, helping others learn, and caring for animals? As a Prairie Farm Leader, you’ll play a hands-on role in bringing Champaign Park District’s Prairie Farm to life. This seasonal position supports daily farm operations, assists with educational programming, and helps create a safe, welcoming, and engaging environment for visitors of all ages.Summary of ResponsibilitiesAssist with educational programs and activities at Prairie FarmProvide daily care for farm animals, including feeding, cleaning, and following care proceduresMaintain clean, safe, and organized animal areas, facilities, and farm groundsInteract positively with participants, visitors, and caregiversSupport special events, seasonal activities, and projects as assignedFollow all Park District safety policies and operational proceduresUse equipment and supplies responsiblyCommunicate effectively with supervisors and team membersAttend required meetings and training sessionsPerform physical tasks such as lifting (up to ~40 lbs), walking, bending, and repetitive motionsUphold confidentiality, professionalism, and Park District valuesComply with equal opportunity and harassment policiesPerform other duties as assignedWhy Work With Us?Gain hands-on experience with animal care and outdoor educationBuild skills in teamwork, communication, and public engagementEnjoy meaningful work in a unique farm settingBe part of a supportive, mission-driven Park District teamGreat opportunity for students, nature enthusiasts, and aspiring educatorsBenefits SummarySeasonal, non-exempt employees receive:Training opportunities provided by the Champaign Park DistrictCertifications available, including First Aid, AED/CPR, Mandated Reporter, and Harassment PreventionValuable professional experience in parks, recreation, and environmental educationAbout the Champaign Park DistrictThe Champaign Park District is dedicated to enhancing community quality of life through parks, programs, and facilities that promote recreation, education, and environmental stewardship. Prairie Farm is a key part of that mission, offering hands-on learning experiences that connect people to agriculture, nature, and sustainability.Who This Position Is Ideal ForThis role is perfect for individuals who enjoy working outdoors, interacting with the public, and caring for animals. If you’re at least 16 years old at the time of hire, dependable, energetic, and interested in agriculture, education, or environmental work, you’ll thrive as a Prairie Farm Leader.The Champaign Park District is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status. We are committed to providing a workplace that is free from discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employees are required to comply with our equal opportunity and harassment laws, policies, and procedures.Minimum age of 16 at the time of hire.Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditionsAbility to follow instructions, established procedures, and safety protocolsAbility to communicate effectively with supervisors, coworkers, participants, and the publicAbility to perform physical tasks required for animal care, facility upkeep, and program supportPrior experience working with animals, outdoor education, or agriculture preferred but not required