What are the responsibilities and job description for the Sports Field Worker - PT1 position at CHAMPAIGN PARK DISTRICT?
Champaign 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
Salary : $18