Champaign Park District – Full-Time, Non-Exempt

About the Job:

If you enjoy working outdoors and want to help keep parks beautiful and safe for the community, this role is for you. As a Grounds Specialist, you’ll construct, maintain, and improve Park District grounds year-round. From landscaping and tree care to mowing, snow removal, and facility upkeep, your work will directly impact how thousands of residents experience our parks.

Summary of Responsibilities:

• Perform landscape maintenance including turf, tree, shrub, and sod care
• Operate and maintain mowers, tractors, and other power equipment safely
• Conduct snow removal during winter months
• Inspect grounds regularly and report issues to supervisor
• Train and guide part-time and seasonal staff in specialized areas
• Assist with small construction projects and installations
• Maintain accurate records and daily updates for supervisor
• Interact with the public in a professional, courteous manner
• Work outdoors in all weather conditions and complete physically demanding tasks

Why Work With Us?
At the Champaign Park District, you’ll gain valuable skills in landscaping, equipment operation, and team leadership while contributing to a healthier, greener community. This is a hands-on role where every day is different and rewarding. You’ll have opportunities to specialize in trees, mowing, or landscaping, and to mentor others along the way.

Benefits Summary:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance options
• IMRF pension participation and voluntary retirement savings plans (457, IRA)
• Paid vacation (starting at 12 days/year), sick leave, holidays (10/year), and personal days
• Free facility memberships for employees and household members
• Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities
• Discounts on concessions, cell phones, pet insurance, and more

About the Champaign Park District:
The Champaign Park District serves the community by providing safe, welcoming parks and facilities, innovative recreational programs, and opportunities for connection. With a strong commitment to stewardship, inclusion, and community pride, we work every day to improve the quality of life for our residents.

Who This Position Is Ideal For:
This role is perfect for someone with strong landscaping experience who enjoys being outdoors in all seasons, operating equipment, and leading others. If you take pride in your work, value teamwork, and want to make a visible impact on your community, we encourage you to apply.

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 five (5) of experience in landscape maintenance.
• Demonstrated competence in team leadership and supervision.
• Demonstrated competence in at least one of the three major areas: trees, mowing, landscaping.
• Ability to organize and supervise one or more major areas in a skill category.
• Ability to understand and work from written and oral instructions.
• Ability to operate power equipment and hand tools in a safe and efficient manner.
• Ability to use and maintain tools and equipment as per established procedures.
• Acquire and maintain a State of Illinois pesticide applicator license
• Acquire and maintain a current State of Illinois driver’s license with specific classification pertaining to each skill area.