Prairie Farms Assistant Director of Programming
About The Position
Champaign Park District – Part-Time 2, Non-Exempt (not to exceed 19 hours per week on average or 1,000 hours annually) Seasonal: March – October About the Job Love working with animals, being outdoors, and creating meaningful learning experiences? The Prairie Farm Assistant Director of Programming plays a key role in bringing Champaign Park District’s interactive farm to life. This position helps plan and lead hands-on educational and recreational programs for children, teens, and adults, while supporting special events, supervising staff and volunteers, and assisting with daily farm operations. You’ll help ensure every visitor has a safe, engaging, and memorable farm experience. Summary of Responsibilities Assist with planning, organizing, and delivering educational programs and special events at Prairie Farm Support and lead programs such as farm tours, birthday parties, Movie Nights, and instructional classes Help develop, promote, implement, and evaluate youth and family programs Train, supervise, and assist seasonal staff and volunteers Maintain accurate program, attendance, and participation records Assist with daily farm operations, including animal care as needed Ensure a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for visitors, staff, and animals Maintain positive relationships with participants, caregivers, and the community Follow all Champaign Park District safety, confidentiality, and operational policies Attend required meetings and trainings Perform additional duties as assigned Why Work With Us? Gain hands-on experience in educational programming, farm operations, and event coordination Work in a unique outdoor environment alongside animals and the community Develop leadership, communication, and supervisory skills Be part of meaningful programs that connect people to agriculture, animals, and nature Training and certifications provided by the Champaign Park District Benefits Summary Paid training and required certifications Opportunities to build professional skills in recreation, education, and animal care Supportive team environment focused on learning and collaboration About the Champaign Park District The Champaign Park District is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for the community through parks, recreation, and educational opportunities. With a strong focus on inclusion, stewardship, and community engagement, the District provides programs and spaces that encourage learning, wellness, and connection for residents of all ages. Who This Position Is Ideal For This role is perfect for someone who enjoys working outdoors, has experience with livestock, and is passionate about education and community programming. It’s a great fit for individuals who are organized, enthusiastic, comfortable leading groups, and excited to help create positive, hands-on experiences for families and participants at the farm. 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.
Requirements
- Minimum 18 years of age.
- Minimum one (1) year experience working with livestock.
- Valid Illinois Driver’s License with a clean driving record.
- Ability to communicate effectively with children, caregivers, staff, and the public.
- Ability to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.
Nice To Haves
- Experience working in children’s recreational or educational programming preferred.
Responsibilities
- Assist with planning, organizing, and delivering educational programs and special events at Prairie Farm
- Support and lead programs such as farm tours, birthday parties, Movie Nights, and instructional classes
- Help develop, promote, implement, and evaluate youth and family programs
- Train, supervise, and assist seasonal staff and volunteers
- Maintain accurate program, attendance, and participation records
- Assist with daily farm operations, including animal care as needed
- Ensure a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for visitors, staff, and animals
- Maintain positive relationships with participants, caregivers, and the community
- Follow all Champaign Park District safety, confidentiality, and operational policies
- Attend required meetings and trainings
- Perform additional duties as assigned
Benefits
- Paid training and required certifications
- Opportunities to build professional skills in recreation, education, and animal care
- Supportive team environment focused on learning and collaboration
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
