Associate Director, Carnivore/Small Mammal Care & Conservation

Brookfield Zoo Chicago • Brookfield, IL

12d

About The Position

The Associate Director, Carnivore/Small Mammal Care & Conservation is a full-time salaried position that provides operational leadership and management for Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s Carnivore/Small Mammal Department. The role ensures effective implementation of animal care, welfare, staffing, training, safety, and departmental priorities. As the primary operational leader and partner to the Director of Carnivore/Small Mammal, the Associate Director supports the zoo’s mission and strategic pillars through animal management, employee development, regulatory compliance, and organizational effectiveness.

The position oversees departmental operations, animal management activities, workforce management, compliance, and resources. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions. The stated expected hiring range is $69,583 to $76,541 annually. The position description notes that duties may include other related assignments and that a physical examination or job-related medical testing may be required.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Zoology, or a related field, or a five-year equivalent combination of training and/or experience.
• High school diploma or educational equivalent, such as a GED.
• Minimum 5 years of captive management experience in a zoo or large-scale animal care facility, or equivalent experience within the taxon specialty.
• Minimum 2 years of supervisory experience.
• Understanding of practical principles of animal behavior and ability to work safely with live animals.
• Ability to routinely perceive and act upon relevant changes in animal behaviors and conditions.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including verbal, written, and listening skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office applications, including word processing and database management.
• Cultural competency and experience and/or ability to work and interact effectively with a diverse, multicultural audience.
• Professional working proficiency in English.
• Valid driver’s license. Illinois residents must obtain a valid Illinois license within 90 days of hire; out-of-state residents must have a valid out-of-state license.

Nice To Haves

• Multilingual ability; Spanish fluency is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Provide operational leadership for the Carnivore/Small Mammal Department by implementing departmental priorities, coordinating daily operations, and ensuring continuity of animal care, staffing, and departmental functions.
• Oversee animal management activities, including population management initiatives, animal welfare programs, veterinary procedures, transfers, introductions, training, and husbandry practices.
• Lead workforce management, including employee scheduling, recruitment, onboarding, training, coaching, performance management, staff development, and succession planning.
• Ensure compliance with accreditation standards, regulatory requirements, institutional policies, safety programs, and operational procedures; maintain inspection readiness and risk mitigation practices.
• Oversee departmental facilities, equipment, budgets, records, and operational systems, and recommend improvements that enhance efficiency, safety, and animal care outcomes.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior