The Chicago Zoological Society is committed to diversity and values the benefits and advantages of a diverse workforce. One of our organization's core values is Diversity, valuing differences and the respectful involvement of all people, employing and leveraging the gifts, talents, and experience from each person's culture, perspective, and background to create value for the organization and make it even more successful. As an organization that is dedicated to wildlife and habitat conservation, we recognize and appreciate the value in diversity in all its dimensions. The Chicago Zoological Society has an exciting, fast-paced work environment and a family friendly atmosphere. We are very customer focused, as we host over 2 million guests to Brookfield Zoo each year. We are committed to conservation in the broadest sense, and we take PRIDE in every aspect of our operation. Our employees enjoy a unique work environment in a beautiful park-like setting that is based on respect, openness, cooperation, and involvement. Employees are proud to work for the Chicago Zoological Society and are committed to our important conservation mission. Our dedicated staff has a true sense of purpose and a strong commitment to animals and conservation.

The Chief of Police/Director of Public Safety contributes to the success of the Chicago Zoological Society by performing a variety of management, professional, and administrative duties to plan, direct, and evaluate the activities of the Society's Police Department, contributing to the Society's goals of financial sustainability and quality guest experience by assuring the safety and security of people, animals, park and property.

The successful candidate will be expected to plan, direct, coordinate, and evaluate Public Safety staff and operations, ensuring optimal performance, efficiency, and effectiveness; have overall responsibility for administration and enforcement of park rules, regulations, and statutes and assures a safe, secure environment; oversee Emergency Medical Services, including coordination with resource hospital, and ensures continuing education requirements of Patrol Officers/EMTs are satisfied. Establishes and maintains department operating procedures, standards, and rules. Supervises assigned employees, including but not limited to: selection, scheduling, work assignments, training and development, performance evaluation, discipline, coaching and counseling, separations, and other personnel actions. Keeps department supervisors timely informed of pertinent information. Handles grievances, maintains department discipline, maintains the conduct and general behavior of assigned personnel, and assures adherence to the collective bargaining agreement, Society policies, and department rules. Performs the duties of subordinate personnel as needed. Patrols park areas to monitor work performance and assists based on the severity of problems encountered and/or volume of business. Develops and implements actions to improve workplace culture with an emphasis on driving results and fostering inclusion. Actively leads employee engagement, talent development, recruitment, and retention initiatives in Public Safety. Leverages organizational resources (training and development-CZS University, performance management systems, employee surveys, communications vehicles, staff meetings, etc.) to drive positive outcomes.

Collaborates with CZS staff and provides consultation as needed on park security, loss prevention, and associated communications. Assists in the design, recommendation, implementation and administration of security systems, protocols, and practices. Recommends and administers requirements for parking, traffic movement, vehicle and pedestrian control systems. Works with Safety Manager to develop safety policies. Makes recommendations to improve health and safety. Coordinates, maintains, and implements the Society's Incident Response Plan and serves as Incident Commander for incidents and emergencies. Ensures all Public Safety programs and equipment are operating properly (i.e., patrol, investigations, firearms, training, lock program, security cameras, visitor access, etc.)

Prepares, manages, and controls the Public Safety Department annual budget. Plans for and makes recommendations for new or replacement equipment or other department needs. Serves as liaison with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, fire departments and hospitals. Represents the Society with respect to security and loss prevention. Keeps abreast of trends and developments in the field. Monitors court cases, provides necessary materials, and reviews evidence, witnesses, and suspects in criminal cases as appropriate. Prepares and submits periodic or special reports regarding department activities and other reports as requested. Other related duties as assigned to assure successful achievement of goals and objectives.

Position Requirements and Specifications
Position Requirements include a Bachelor's degree in Law Enforcement, Criminal Justice or equivalent combination of law enforcement training, education and/or experience required. Successful completion of Illinois Police Academy. Minimum 8 years progressively responsible experience in law enforcement in a supervisory position(s).

Position also requires knowledge of applicable federal, state and local statutes on which charges and arrests are executed, including laws of arrest, search and seizure and standard police rules and regulations. Valid Illinois EMT license or must obtain license of State of Illinois Emergency Medical Technician license within 12 months of hire. Must complete system entry process at designated Resource Hospital within 90 days of hire or within 90 days of obtaining valid EMT license, if later, and must attend continuing education classes as mandated by EMS Regional Hospital and department standards. Valid Fire Owners Identification Card required. Must be able to successfully complete and maintain firearm qualifications with department-issued weapons (.45 caliber, shotgun, .223 caliber, .308 caliber, 45/70 caliber, .375 caliber and .458 caliber) as specified in CZS Police Dept. guidelines as soon as feasible after hire or as specified by the Illinois State Training Board. Ability to use common security (police) equipment, portable radios and other related equipment within 90 days of hire.

Strong communications and interpersonal skills required. Strong customer/public service orientation. Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive information. Strong judgment, problem-solving, and decision making skills. Must be able to work calmly under pressure. Strong organizational and time management skills. Culturally competent; experience and/or ability to interact effectively with a diverse, multicultural audience. Basic computer proficiency with Microsoft Outlook, Word and Excel. A valid driver's license required on date of hire. If an Illinois resident, must possess a valid Illinois driver's license at the time of hire or must obtain one within 90 days of hire. Valid out-of-state driver's license required at time of hire for out-of-state residents.

Desirable qualifications include multilingual ability, Spanish fluency and prior experience as a Chief of Police a plus.

Additional Information

Additional Information: Position includes rotating weekends, evenings, and holidays. This position interacts with all departments, as well various external constituencies. Incumbent is required to gain an understanding of the organization, its mission, vision, values, and operating philosophies, and how Public Safety impacts the operation, image, and financial sustainability of the organization. Normal workweeks of 55 hours+ are not unusual. Individual will be expected to be present and visible at various events. Some occasional local and domestic travel may be required.

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