Facility
Chicago Zoological Society/Brookfield Zoo
Closing Date
[jobclosingdate]
Description
CZS has nearly tripled our reptile and aquatics areas in size in the last five years and opportunity remains for increasing our collection size and focus as programs grow and continue to develop. We have started expanding our local herp/aquatic conservation projects which include species such as mud and Blanding’s turtles, alligator snapping turtles, fine-lined skinks, and Massasauga rattlesnakes; we have added over 600 animals and 40 species in the last two years; we have expanded the displays by over 30% in the past two years; and we plan on adding an additional 15-20% in the next few years. Our exhibits range from 10 gallon invertebrate exhibits to a 60,000 gallon pacific coast exhibit, and we are expanding with smaller exhibits ranging from 10 to 800 gallons.
We are looking for a dynamic person who is ready for the challenge that expansion brings, a great team player, and someone excited and motivated for learning and developing. As one of the top zoos with over 450 species of animals, Seasonal Keepers receive valuable hands-on zookeeping experience while providing high-quality care for the welfare of the collection. Your friendly demeanor, good interpersonal skills and outstanding communication skills will contribute to creating an extraordinary guest experience as Seasonal Keepers may work in public areas and may interact with guests.
As Brookfield Zoo is open 365 days a year, Seasonal Keeper positions require the ability to work rotating shifts including weekends, holidays and evenings. This position also requires that you must be at least 18 years of age and have a valid driver’s license.
This position is working with reptiles and amphibians in a captive setting; and, may include assisting with small aquatics systems.
Education and Pre-requisites
The requirements for this position include: High school graduate or equivalent required. Bachelor’s degree or college coursework in relevant biological field or equivalent combination of training and experience preferred. Minimum six months animal care facility, farm, kennel, or equivalent animal experience preferred. Incumbent must possess an understanding of practical principles of animal behavior and ability to work with live animals safely. Knowledge of natural history, zoology, or animal husbandry preferred. Must be a minimum of 18 years of age. Good interpersonal and communications skills. Must be able to interact in a courteous and professional manner. Must be able to learn and integrate information, knowledge, and direction quickly.
Must be reliable. Must be capable of dealing with emergencies calmly and efficiently. Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language fluently. 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. Experience and/or ability to work and interact effectively with a diverse, multicultural audience. Multilingual ability and Spanish fluency a plus.
Compensation and benefits
This is a temporary (seasonal) position. The union hourly wage for this position is $10.56 per hour.
Application instructions
The Chicago Zoological Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
If interested in being considered for this opportunity, please visit the CZS Career Center to obtain more details about the position and to apply by submitting your profile. Please visit our website at www.czs.org/careers. Please look for requisition number 1573BR.