05-Apr-2024

2663BR

Regular Full Time

Job Function and Responsibilities

Our Aquatic Department is currently reimagining the aquatic collection and guest engagement experiences to engage and inspire our guests to appreciate the significance of aquatic ecosystems. Additionally, we are increasing our involvement in the AZA community and forging global conservation partnerships to actively assist in protecting endangered species and their habitats. As we embark on this exciting journey, we are looking for a passionate and enthusiastic individual to join our team.

As an Assistant Animal Care Specialist Aquatics, you will, under close supervision, provide general care for animals and performs related work of maintaining buildings, grounds, and interpretives in assigned area. You will also inform, assist, and direct guests as necessary.

The successful candidate will be expected to:

• Prepare and distribute food as directed.
• 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 zoo property.
• Communicate with and assist guests. Take initiative to facilitate guests' appreciation of animals and enjoyment of their visit.
• Demonstrate knowledge of and implement zoo-wide and area emergency procedures as directed.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Position Requirements and Specifications

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.
• Must possess an understanding of practical principles of animal behavior and the ability to work with live animals safely.
• Good interpersonal skills. The ability to interact in a courteous and professional manner.
• 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. Must be alert and make sound independent judgments.
• Ability to perceive and act upon relevant changes in animal behaviors and conditions.
• Must have or acquire general knowledge about Brookfield Zoo Chicago, gain an understanding of the mission, and become familiar with and follow policies and procedures.
• Must develop proficiency in routines of assigned areas and specialized procedures as directed.
• Must demonstrate the ability to accurately perform job duties.
• Must be reliable.
• Valid driver's license required.
• Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language fluently.
• Spanish fluency a plus, but not required.
• SCUBA Certification required within one year of hire.

Additional Information

This is a full-time union role with an hourly rate of $26.38. A comprehensive benefits package that that includes medical, dental, and 401(k) retirement savings plans will also be offered.

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

The Brookfield Zoo Chicago is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Schedule Details

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

Job Location

Brookfield Zoo Chicago

Zip Code

60513

Department

Animal Care and Programs

Group

Animal Care and Programs

Union Status

Union