Prairie Farm Leader

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.

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