Sports Field Worker - PT1

Job DetailsJob Location: Operations Facility - Champaign, IL 61821Position Type: Part-timeSalary Range: $17.75 - $17.75 HourlyChampaign Park District – Part-time (not to exceed 29 hours per week on average)

About the Job

If you like being outdoors, staying active, and taking pride in work people actually notice, this one’s for you. Sports Field Workers play a huge role in keeping Champaign’s athletic fields safe, playable, and game-ready. From lining fields to repairing surfaces after tough weather, your work directly supports leagues, practices, and community events across the Park District.

Summary of Responsibilities

Maintain athletic fields through mowing, edging, dragging, lining, measuring, and marking
Prepare fields for games and practices, including installing and removing bases, fencing, and equipment
Repair field surfaces, fill holes, and assist with drainage and field drying after rain
Operate grounds equipment such as mowers, tractors, trimmers, and field grooming machines
Perform basic preventative maintenance and inspections on tools, equipment, and vehicles
Clean and maintain outdoor facilities and surrounding areas
Work evenings and weekends as scheduled to support events and programs
Follow all Park District safety policies and work cooperatively as part of a crew

Qualifications

Must be at least 18 years of age
Ability to understand and follow written and oral instructions
Ability to safely operate grounds maintenance equipment, including mowers, tractors, lining equipment, and hand tools
Previous experience in athletic field maintenance, grounds maintenance, or a related field is preferred but not required
Valid State of Illinois driver’s license with an acceptable driving record
Ability to pass a criminal background check and drug test
Ability to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation

Why Work With Us?

This job is hands-on, active, and perfect if you don’t want to be stuck indoors all summer. You’ll build real-world skills in equipment operation, teamwork, and outdoor facility maintenance—experience that translates well into parks, landscaping, construction, or facilities careers. Plus, there’s nothing quite like seeing a freshly prepped field ready for game time.

Benefits & Perks 

As a Part-Time 1 employee, you are eligible for:

Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) participation 
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
District recreation and wellness benefits
Professional training and certifications, including CPR/AED, First Aid, Mandated Reporter, CPI (as assigned), and other position-specific training
Opportunities for professional growth within the Park District

About the Champaign Park District

The Champaign Park District is dedicated to enhancing community life through parks, programs, and facilities that promote health, inclusion, and connection. Our teams take pride in maintaining spaces where people of all ages can play, compete, and come together—and sports fields are a big part of that mission.

Who This Position Is Ideal For

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys physical work, being outdoors in all kinds of weather, and working as part of a team. It’s a great fit for individuals with an interest in athletics, turf management, or outdoor maintenance—or anyone who wants a seasonal job that keeps them moving and makes a visible impact in the community.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The Champaign Park District is an equal opportunity employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race (including traits associated with race, such as hair texture and protective hairstyles), color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, marital status, pregnancy, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. 

The Park District is committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. Qualifications
Must be at least 18 years of age
Valid State of Illinois drivers license and clean driving record
Must be able to pass a criminal background check and drug test
Ability to work from written and oral instructions
Most tasks are performed with little or no direct supervision
Ability to operate necessary equipment, i.e. tractors, lining equipment, trucks, ball field machines
Previous experience in athletic field maintenance or related field is recommended
Attend Champaign Park District blood borne pathogen training within two weeks of hire
POSITIVE "CAN-DO" TEAM ATTITUD