As a Zookeeper in Birds, you will, under close supervision,
provide general care for animals and performs related work of maintaining
buildings, grounds, and interpretives in assigned area. As a Zookeeper, you will also inform, assist,
and direct guests as necessary.

The successful candidate will be expected to:

• Prepare and distribute food as directed.
• Observe assigned animals closely, routinely, and objectively
  report to supervisor on their behavior, health, and welfare. Keep animal records as assigned.
• Observe condition of assigned area(s), animal enclosures,
  and equipment. Monitor and clean public
  space(s), plants, and interpretives as assigned. Report maintenance needs. Perform minor maintenance tasks as assigned.
• Clean animal enclosures, pools, and service areas.
• Study specific reference materials about animals in assigned
  area. Read other zoological and
  husbandry texts as assigned.
• Perform routines of assigned areas and specialized
  procedures as directed.
• Monitor guests to insure animal and human safety and
  protection of Society property.
• Communicate with and assist guests. Take initiative to facilitate guests'
  appreciation of animals and enjoyment of their visit.
• Demonstrate knowledge of and implement Society-wide and area
  emergency procedures as directed.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Position Requirements and Specifications
The requirements for this position include:

• Bachelor's degree in relevant biological field or equivalent
  combination of training and/or experience required.


• Animal care facility, farm, kennel, or equivalent animal
  experience required.


• Incumbent must possess an understanding of practical
  principles of animal behavior and the ability to work with live animals safely.


• Good interpersonal skills. The ability to interact in a courteous and professional manner.


• Knowledge of natural history, zoology, or animal husbandry
  preferred.


• Must be capable of dealing with emergencies calmly and
  efficiently.


• Must learn and integrate information, knowledge, and
  direction quickly.


• Good decision-making skills. Must be alert and make sound independent judgments.


• Ability to perceive and act upon relevant changes in animal
  behaviors and conditions.


• Incumbent must have or acquire general knowledge about the
  Society, gain an understanding of the Society's mission, and become familiar
  with and follow Society policies and procedures.


• Incumbent must develop proficiency in routines of assigned
  areas and specialized procedures as directed.


• Incumbent must demonstrate the ability to accurately perform
  job duties.


• Must be reliable.


• Valid driver's license required for Illinois residents
  within 90 days of hire; valid out-of-state license required for out-of-state
  residents.


• Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language
  fluently.


• Spanish fluency a plus, but not required.


• This is a full-time position with rotating shifts, including
  weekends, holidays, and evenings.


• For The Living Coast and Seven Seas keeper positions, SCUBA
  Certification required within one year of hire.

Additional Information
The Chicago Zoological Society is an Equal Opportunity
Employer / Affirmative Action Employer - Minorities / Women / Veterans /
Disabled.