The Chicago Zoological Society is a leading conservation organization and 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. At Brookfield Zoo, we work hard and we play hard! 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.
As a Zookeeper in Hamill Family Play Zoo, 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 ascdirected. 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.

Auto req ID
1523BR

Union Status
Union

Position Requirements and Specifications
The requirements for this position include: Bachelor\u0027s degree in relevant biological field or equivalent combination of training and/or experience required. Animal care facility, farm, kennel, or equivalent animal experience required.
Experience with native North American and/or farm animals preferred.

Incumbent must possess an understanding of practical principles of animal behavior and the ability to work with live animals safely. Ability to perceive and act upon relevant changes in animal behaviors and conditions. Strong operant conditioning skills a plus. Strong public speaking skills preferred; experience and enjoyment with public speaking skills and public interaction preferred. Good interpersonal skills. The ability to interact in a courteous and professional manner. Successful candidate will be able to work effectively with children and families. 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. Ability to work in a fast pace and ever-changing work group preferred. Good decision-making skills. Must be alert and make sound independent judgments. 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.


Work Shift
Rotating Schedule

Employment Type
Regular Full Time

Zip Code
60513

Additional Information
The Chicago Zoological Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Group
Animal Programs