Facility

Chicago Zoological Society/Brookfield Zoo

Closing Date

Description

Since the opening of Brookfield Zoo in 1934, the Chicago Society has had an international reputation for taking a cutting-edge role in animal care and conservation of the natural world. The Society is an active partner in wildlife protection programs around the world and we have pioneered the field of conservation psychology, the study of how people connect with animals and nature. We are able to reach many audiences each year, including 2 million zoo guests engaged by unique exhibits and programs. The animals at Brookfield Zoo are ambassadors to those in the wild and through care and breeding and, in some cases, reintroduction to their natural habitat, we replenish nature many times over. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the American Humane Association, Brookfield Zoo provides state-of-the-art care through top-notch medical, husbandry, and nutrition programs to thousands of animals representing over 500 species.

As a Zookeeper, Mammals West 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. This position includes indoor and outdoor exhibits in all extremes of Chicago weather where experience with large and small hoofstock is required, exotic ungulate experience preferred. Capture and restraint skills, along with an interest in environmental and behavioral enrichment are also preferred. Hoof maintenance skills are a plus!

The successful candidate will be expected to: 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. Prepare and distribute food as directed. Clean animal enclosures, pools, and service areas. Perform routines of assigned areas and specialized procedures as directed.

Also expected is to study specific reference materials about animals in the assigned area. Read other zoological and husbandry texts as assigned. 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.

Education and Pre-requisites

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. 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 are required as well as must be alert and make sound independent judgments. Ability to perceive and act upon relevant changes in animal behaviors and conditions. Incumbent must develop proficiency in routines of assigned areas and specialized procedures as directed and must demonstrate the ability to accurately perform job duties.

Also required: Good interpersonal skills. The ability to interact in a courteous and professional manner. 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. Must be reliable. Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language fluently. Spanish fluency a plus, but not required. Valid driver’s license required.

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

Compensation and benefits

Zookeeper: $22.57/hour per union contract.

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 1871BR.