Animal Behavioral Research Assistant
About The Position
The Animal Behavioral Research Assistant contributes to the success of Brookfield Zoo Chicago (“BZC”) by assisting in analyses of behavioral and animal health data in support of innovations in Animal Welfare. The position contributes to the pillar of Innovations in Science, Education, Training, and Animal Welfare. Ideal candidate will have experience working across diverse animal taxa (e.g., mammals, birds, reptiles, and aquatics). Publishing or presenting experience a plus; ability to synthesize and communicate your work (authoring peer-reviewed manuscripts, writing articles for specialized publications, or delivering conference presentations and educational outreach programs).
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Psychology or related field or eight year’s equivalent combination of training and experience. High school diploma or educational equivalent (e.g., GED.) required
- One-year relevant experience in behavioral data collection techniques and/or observation methodologies.
- Must have ability to work collaboratively.
- Must be proactive and able to identify tasks to be completed and move forward without prompting.
- Strong decision-making skills.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including verbal and effective listening skills.
- Ability to establish, develop, and maintain a strong rapport and positive relationships with volunteers, staff, guests, and local community members.
- Must be able to maintain confidential information.
- Must be highly flexible and adaptable, have a strong work ethic, and be highly tactful.
- Cultural competency; experience and/or ability to work and interact effectively with a diverse, multicultural audience.
- English fluency at a professional working proficiency.
- 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.
Nice To Haves
- Publishing or presenting experience a plus
- Multilingual ability, Spanish fluency a plus.
Responsibilities
- Assist in analyses of behavioral and animal health data in support of innovations in Animal Welfare.
- Perform data collection, data management, and data tabulation for assigned research.
- Assist in development of ideas for new behavioral protocols and computerized data management systems.
- Assist in data analyses when appropriate and perform literature searches.
- Other related duties as assigned.
Benefits
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Eight paid holidays per year.
- Medical Insurance (HMO or PPO Plan)
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Care Coverage
- Mental Health Support (EAP)
- Retirement Savings (automatic enrollment at 6% pre-tax, employer match up to 3%)
- Short-Term Disability benefits
- Long-Term Disability benefits
- Basic Term Life insurance
- Basic AD&D insurance
- Pre-tax Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for healthcare and/or dependent care expenses.
- Supplemental Term Life Insurance
- Group Accident Insurance
- Supplemental Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance
- Group Critical Illness Insurance
- Supplemental Dependent Life Insurance
- Identity Theft Protection
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
