06-Mar-2024

2641BR

Seasonal

Job Function and Responsibilities

As one of the top zoos with over 450 species of animals, Seasonal Animal Care Specialists receive valuable experience while providing high-quality care for the welfare of the collection. You will demonstrate your practical understanding of animal behavior, ability to work with live animals safely, and attention to details while closely observing assigned animals, carefully observing the condition of the assigned area and animal enclosures, and maintaining animal record documentation as assigned. Your friendly demeanor, good interpersonal skills and outstanding communication skills will contribute to creating an extraordinary guest experience as Seasonal Animal Care Specialist s may work in public areas and may interact with guests.

This position is working with birds of all sizes and shapes! Passerines a-plenty! May also include penguins.

Position Requirements and Specifications

As Brookfield Zoo is open 363 days a year, Seasonal Animal Care Specialist positions require the ability to work rotating shifts including weekends, holidays and evenings. The position will be 32-40 hours per week, more hours through the summer and likely slightly fewer once we pass mid-September, and will be focused on assisting with Penguin Encounters and their care, though there will be some limited exposure to the rest of the collection. This is a temporary (seasonal) position beginning in April 2024, requires that you must be at least 18 years of age, and have a valid driver's license. This is a temporary (seasonal) position. The starting wage is $15.00 per hour, per union contract.

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. Must be capable of dealing with emergencies calmly and efficiently. Knowledge of natural history, zoology, or animal husbandry preferred. 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 able to read, write, and speak the English language fluently. Experience and/or ability to work and interact effectively with a diverse, multicultural audience. Multilingual ability and Spanish fluency a plus.

Additional Information

Brookfield Zoo Chicago is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Schedule Details

Seasonal Keeper positions require the ability to work rotating shifts including weekends, holidays and evenings.

Job Location

Chicago Zoological Society-Brookfield Zoo

Zip Code

60513

Department

Birds

Group

Animal Programs

Union Status

Union

Work Shift

Rotating Schedule