Since the opening of Brookfield Zoo in 1934, the Society has had an international reputation for taking a cutting-edge role in animal care and conservation of the natural world. Among its historical firsts are indoor multi-species exhibits, zoo nutrition residencies, methods for animal husbandry, and medical care that includes successful brain surgery for a gorilla. In building its legacy of animal care and compassion, the Society has launched two new centers: the Center for Conservation Leadership and the Center for the Science of Animal Welfare (CSAW). These innovative learning and research hubs will integrate a wide variety of disciplines, changing the way animal conservation issues are considered and advancing the science of "animal-directed" care around the world.

As one of the top zoos with over 450 species of animals, the Administrative Assistant provides a full range of administrative and clerical support to the Animal Programs Group to ensure efficient, seamless processing of transactions and maintenance of accurate/current Animal Programs ("AP") department information. The Administrative Assistant is responsible for processing and tracking purchase orders for all departments in Animal Programs, process petty cash expenditures, responsible for office supplies and work with the Finance Department to resolve outstanding purchase order and invoice issues. Making use of your excellent prioritization skills, you will be responsible for scheduling and coordinating tours of animal areas. As the Administrative Assistant, you will serve as liaison to other departments within the institution and represent the Animal Programs Department at meetings as appropriate. You will also oversee the uniform program for the Animal Programs Group. This includes developing protocols, acting as a liaison with the vendor to resolve issues, and verifying invoices for payment. You will order and track uniforms items and maintain a small inventory of CZS garments for staff. Drawing upon your prior administrative experience, you will provide administrative support, manage incoming calls, distribute mail, and prepare information for reports. You will also maintain required computer databases; maintain records of all overtime and associated costs for each work group; revise and distribute updates for various manuals as assigned; and, maintain accurate record keeping of any funds held by the Society for external organizations with which Animal Programs staff are associated. Furthermore, you will coordinate equipment repairs for AP departments and arrange the bi-annual inspection and calibration of scales in the animal exhibit buildings throughout the park.

Position Requirements and Specifications
The requirements for this position include the following:

Associates Degree in Business, Communications or other directly relevant field or equivalent combination of training and/or experience required. Three years administrative and/or management experience providing comparable level of support for multiple managers. Computer proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Must be able to use basic office equipment (copier, fax, etc.). Excellent prioritization skills and strong attention to detail and accuracy. Must be able to work under pressure and meet critical deadlines. Effective problem-solving skills, ability to make sound decisions; strong coordinating skills, solid follow-up and follow through skills. Strong interpersonal skills required. Ability to effectively deal with all levels of staff, both within and outside the organization. Strong verbal communication skills. Excellent telephone etiquette and effective listening skills required. Must communicate with sensitivity and have a strong customer service approach in addition to a demonstrated ability to work with the public. Experience and/or ability to work and interact effectively with a diverse, multicultural audience. Valid driver's license required. Illinois residents must possess a valid Illinois license within 90 days of hire. Valid out-of-state license required for out-of-state residents.

The desirable/preferred qualifications include the following: Non-profit experience desirable. Multilingual ability, Spanish fluency a plus.

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