Animal Ambassadors - Animal Care Specialist

Brookfield Zoo ChicagoBrookfield, IL
$30Onsite

About The Position

Brookfield Zoo Chicago is seeking an Animal Care Specialist to join their Animal Ambassador Program. This program allows guests to have close-up experiences with a variety of animals. The Animal Care Specialist will provide general care for animals, maintain buildings and grounds, and interact with visitors. This is a union full-time hourly position with a pay rate of $29.88/hour.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in relevant biological field or equivalent combination of training and/or experience required.
  • High school diploma or educational equivalent (e.g., GED.) required.
  • Successful completion of Assistant Animal Care Specialist (“ACS”) probationary period or equivalent combination of training and/or experience in a zoo or aquarium required.
  • Understanding of practical principles of animal behavior and the ability to work with live animals safely.
  • Knowledge of natural history, zoology, and general animal behavior and husbandry required.
  • Solid interpersonal skills required.
  • Capable of dealing with emergencies calmly and efficiently.
  • Ability to learn and integrate information, knowledge, and direction quickly, and complete tasks as needed.
  • 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.
  • Ability to accurately and proficiently perform assigned routines and specialized procedures as directed. Must possess a record of consistency and accuracy in performing job duties.
  • Ability to take initiative in identifying and solving problems, recommending ideas and viable suggestions to improve operations.
  • Ability to work with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to train, educate, and direct the basic work of seasonal employees and interns.
  • Must be reliable.
  • Computer proficiency with Microsoft Suite (Outlook, Word), Microsoft 365, ZIMS or similar required.
  • Cultural competency; experience and/or ability to work and interact effectively with a diverse, multicultural audience.
  • Ability to read, write and speak the English language at a professional working proficiency.
  • Valid driver’s license required at time of hire. Illinois residents must possess a valid Illinois driver’s license or obtain one within 90 days of hire. Valid out-of-state driver’s license is required for out-of-state residents.
  • Genuine interest in animals and their welfare.
  • Ability to adjust quickly to changes.
  • Must represent BZC in a professional manner at all times.

Nice To Haves

  • Multilingual ability, Spanish fluency a plus.

Responsibilities

  • Order, 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 as assigned.
  • Study specific reference materials and other zoological and husbandry texts as assigned.
  • Perform area routines proficiently. Continue developing proficiency in specialized procedures.
  • Monitor guests to insure animal and human safety and protection of BZC property.
  • Communicate with and assist guests. Take initiative to facilitate guests’ appreciation of animals and enjoyment of their visit.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of and implement BZC-wide and area emergency procedures as directed.
  • Train and direct interns, seasonals, ACS aides, and volunteers as assigned.
  • Other related duties as assigned.

Benefits

  • Vacation time
  • Personal Convenience Days
  • Sick Leave
  • Ten paid holidays per year
  • Medical Insurance (100% employer-paid for bargaining unit employees)
  • Retirement Savings (automatic enrollment at 6%, employer match up to 3% after one year of service)
  • Short-Term Disability benefits
  • Basic Term Life insurance
  • Long-Term disability benefits
  • Group Accident Insurance
  • Group Critical Illness Insurance
  • Identity Theft Protection

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What This Job Offers

Job Type

Full-time

Career Level

Entry Level

Number of Employees

251-500 employees

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