Prairie Farm Leader

Champaign Park District; Champaign (IL); On-site; USD 18,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

Champaign Park District’s Prairie Farm Leader is a seasonal, non-exempt role based in Champaign, IL. You will help run daily farm operations, assist with educational programs, and ensure a welcoming visitor experience.

The position supports animal care, safety, and community engagement, with up to 40 lb lifting and outdoor work in varied weather. Ideal for students and outdoors enthusiasts seeking hands-on learning.

Qualifications

• Minimum age of 16 at time of hire.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to follow instructions, procedures, and safety rules.
• Effective communication with supervisors, coworkers, participants, and public.
• Ability to perform physical tasks related to animal care and facility upkeep.

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 and grounds.
• Interact positively with participants, visitors, and caregivers.
• Support events and seasonal activities as assigned.
• Follow safety policies and operational procedures and use equipment responsibly.

Skills

Outdoor work

Communication

Teamwork

Public engagement

Animal care

Job description

Job Details: Job Location: Prairie Farm - Champaign, IL 61821, Position Type: Seasonal, Salary Range: $15.75 - $15.75 Hourly, Prairie Farm Leader

Champaign Park District - Seasonal, Non-Exempt (not to exceed six months)

About the Job

Love 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 Responsibilities

• Assist with educational programs and activities at Prairie Farm
• Provide daily care for farm animals, including feeding, cleaning, and following care procedures
• Maintain clean, safe, and organized animal areas, facilities, and farm grounds
• Interact positively with participants, visitors, and caregivers
• Support special events, seasonal activities, and projects as assigned
• Follow all Park District safety policies and operational procedures
• Use equipment and supplies responsibly
• Communicate effectively with supervisors and team members
• Attend required meetings and training sessions
• Perform physical tasks such as lifting (up to ~40 lbs), walking, bending, and repetitive motions
• Uphold confidentiality, professionalism, and Park District values
• Comply with equal opportunity and harassment policies
• Perform other duties as assigned

Why Work With Us?

• Gain hands-on experience with animal care and outdoor education
• Build skills in teamwork, communication, and public engagement
• Enjoy meaningful work in a unique farm setting
• Be part of a supportive, mission-driven Park District team
• Great opportunity for students, nature enthusiasts, and aspiring educators

Benefits Summary

Seasonal, non-exempt employees receive:

• Training opportunities provided by the Champaign Park District
• Certifications available, including First Aid, AED/CPR, Mandated Reporter, and Harassment Prevention
• Valuable professional experience in parks, recreation, and environmental education

About the Champaign Park District

The 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 For

This 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.

Qualifications

• Minimum age of 16 at the time of hire.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to follow instructions, established procedures, and safety protocols.
• Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors, coworkers, participants, and the public.
• Ability to perform physical tasks required for animal care, facility upkeep, and program support.
• Prior experience working with animals, outdoor education, or agriculture preferred but not required.