Assistant Animal Keeper-Primate House & Regenstein Macaque Forest

Lincoln Park Zoological Society•Chicago, IL

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Lincoln Park Zoo inspires communities to create environments where wildlife will thrive in our urbanizing world. The zoo is a leader in local and global conservation, animal care and welfare, learning, and science. A historic Chicago landmark founded in 1868, the not-for-profit Lincoln Park Zoo, is a privately-managed, member-supported organization and is free and open 365 days a year. Visit us at lpzoo.org. GENERAL SUMMARY Under general supervision, participates in most aspects of daily animal care and enclosure maintenance. This position works in a team atmosphere that strives to continuously provide progressive, high standards of care to ensure animal health, safety, and well-being.

Requirements

Knowledge of current industry standard husbandry practices and methods
Knowledge of animal behavior and natural history; common environmental enrichment and animal training practices; biology and related subjects
Knowledge of animal behavior as an indication of general health, reproductive potential and wellbeing
Knowledge of occupational hazards involved and the safe work practices to employ while in proximity of potentially dangerous animals
Knowledge of materials, methods, tools and equipment used in cleaning operations
Skill in making thorough observations and documenting observations
Ability to keep comprehensive and accurate records according to established procedures
Strong oral and written communications skills
Ability to both give and follow oral and written directions effectively
Ability to receive constructive feedback
Ability to organize tasks and time to ensure timely completion of all projects
Ability to work in any of the assigned animal areas fulfilling all requirements of the title
Ability to exercise sound judgement in analyzing animal behavior problems or emergency situations, and report to the team lead or supervisor
Ability to work with and be comfortable around potentially dangerous and unpredictable animal species
Under direct supervision, ability to work with animal handling tools, squeeze cages, chemicals and/or medications
Ability to interact courteously, respectfully and productively with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, zoo visitors, and general public
Knowledge of basic computer programs/software (Word, Excel, and Internet/Intranet navigation)
Graduation from a high school or the equivalent (GED) is required.
Available to work all necessary hours, including weekends, holidays, special events and all shifts.
Available to attend on-ground training sessions as needed

Nice To Haves

Graduation from an accredited college or university with a degree in Biological Sciences (i.e. Biology, Zoology, Ecology) or a closely related discipline is preferred.
Previous experience performing animal care activities in a zoo, aquarium or like institutions is highly desirable.
Experience in designated taxonomic area preferred
Experience and proficiency in animal training using operant conditioning techniques and goal-based enrichment is preferred.
A comparable combination of education, experience or training that would provide the level of knowledge, skills, and ability required may qualify an individual.
A valid driver’s license with a good driving record is preferred

Responsibilities

Provides daily care to animals and their enclosures. Including, but not limited to cleaning, feeding, watering, securing, observing, animal training and enrichment, record keeping and exhibit cleaning
Observes and assists with daily operant conditioning training sessions for assigned animals
Participates in behavioral enrichment program by implementing and evaluating enrichment activities
Tasks may include heavy manual and skilled work such as moving and manipulating heavy food items, hoses, bales of hay, equipment and crated animals
Advances zoo mission through collaboration with horticulture, conservation & science, development, learning and community engagement programs. This may include – conducting camp chats and through interaction with zoo guests
Cleans and maintains animal exhibits including use of chemical agents and special tools which are used to ensure the health and safety of the animals
Prepares and distributes prescribed animal diets as determined by senior animal management staff
Under supervision, administers therapeutics as prescribed by the veterinarian
Monitors health of animals on a daily basis, and reports anything abnormal or problematic to the management team without delay
Prepares detailed written daily reports and completes all assigned record keeping in TRACKS record keeping system
Monitors the condition of habitats, equipment, and facilities and reports concerns to the team lead
Maintains clean and safe work environment
Maintains an inventory of tools and supplies
Adheres to established animal handling and related safety guidelines
Participates in established animal escape drills and procedures. Under supervision, captures, restrains, and transports animals
Jobs may require coordination with other zoo departments
Promotes and contributes to a positive and productive work environment
Promotes a positive guest experience
Other duties as assigned to maintain efficient and quality zoo operations
Work necessary hours as requested including all shifts, weekends, holidays, and special events

Benefits

medical
dental
vision
life
disability coverages
403(b) savings plan with an institutional match
Free admission to many other Chicago cultural institutions
Free on-site parking anytime with access to Lincoln Park, Lakeshore Trail, and North Avenue Beach
Discounts on event tickets (free admission to select events), attractions, dining, and retail at the zoo
Quarterly staff mingle events and “LPZooU” training and educational sessions about the zoo, wildlife, ecology, and related subjects
Company contribution to Health Savings Account (Medical PPO only)
A working environment with green spaces and regularly available visits with wildlife!