Carnivores/Small Mammals - Animal Care Specialist (Seasonal) 2025 Chicago Zoological Society | Brookfield Zoo, 3300 Golf Rd, Brookfield, Illinois, United States of America Req 80 Tuesday, November 19, 2024 Join the PRIDE Since our opening in 1934, Brookfield Zoo Chicago has had an international reputation for taking a cutting-edge role in animal care and conservation of the natural world. We have pioneered the field of conservation psychology and are able to reach many audiences each year. Brookfield Zoo Chicago is known as a leader in animal welfare and conservation. This seasonal position starts in January 2025. The starting rate of pay is $15.00 per hour. BASIC FUNCTION: This position contributes to the success of Brookfield Zoo Chicago by providing general high-quality care for the welfare of the collection and performing related work of maintaining buildings, grounds, and interpretives in assigned area under close supervision. Informs, assists, and directs guests as necessary to provide a great guest experience. PRIMARY JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Cleans animal enclosures, pools, and service areas as assigned. Prepares and distributes food as directed. Observes assigned animals closely, routinely, and objectively reports to supervisor on their behavior, health, and welfare. Performs routines of assigned areas and specialized procedures as directed. Communicates with and assists guests. Demonstrates knowledge of and implements emergency procedures as directed. Monitors and cleans public spaces, plants, and interpretives as assigned. Monitors visitors to ensure animal and human safety. Studies specific reference materials about animals in assigned area. Other related duties as assigned. Denotes Essential Job Function(s) POSITION REQUIREMENTS: High school graduate or GED equivalent required. Understanding of practical principles of animal behavior. Must be a minimum of 18 years of age. Good interpersonal and communications skills. Knowledge of natural history, zoology, or animal husbandry preferred. Must be capable of dealing with emergencies calmly and efficiently. Must be reliable. Must be able to learn and integrate information quickly. English fluency at a professional working proficiency. Cultural proficiency; experience and/or ability to work with a diverse audience. Valid driver's license required. DESIRABLE/PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor's degree or college coursework in relevant biological field preferred. Minimum six months animal care facility experience preferred. Multilingual ability, Spanish fluency a plus. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: This is a temporary position with rotating shifts, including weekends, holidays, and evenings. Incumbent is expected to acquire general knowledge about Brookfield Zoo Chicago, gain an understanding of the mission, vision, and values, and follow policies and procedures. Incumbent is responsible for the care and proper use of equipment and property, as well as the safety of guests and animals. Animal Care Specialists are frequently subjected to potential hazards that include direct contact with live animals. This job description contains the primary duties and responsibilities of the position, but in no way implies that these are the only duties the employee may ever be called upon to perform. Brookfield Zoo Chicago is open 363 days each year. Work schedules vary with each position. This position may require the ability to work a non-traditional schedule that may include holidays, weekends, mornings and/or evenings. The mission of Brookfield Zoo Chicago is to inspire conservation leadership by connecting people to wildlife and nature. Brookfield Zoo Chicago is an Equal Opportunity Employer. J-18808-Ljbffr
