Associate Director of Primate Care & Conservation

Brookfield Zoo Chicago • Brookfield, IL

13d

About The Position

The Associate Director, Primate Care & Conservation is a full-time salaried position that provides operational leadership and management for Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s Primate 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 Primates, the Associate Director supports the zoo’s mission and strategic pillars through animal management, employee development, regulatory compliance, and organizational effectiveness.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Zoology, or a related field, or five years’ equivalent combination of training and/or experience.
• High school diploma or educational equivalent, such as a GED.
• At least five years of captive management experience in a zoo or large-scale animal care facility, or equivalent experience within the taxon specialty.
• At least two 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 behavior and condition.
• 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

• Implement departmental priorities, coordinate daily operations, and ensure continuity of animal care, staffing, and departmental functions.
• Oversee animal management, including population management initiatives, animal welfare programs, veterinary procedures, transfers, introductions, training, and husbandry practices.
• Lead workforce management through 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, while maintaining inspection readiness and mitigating risk.
• Oversee departmental facilities, equipment, budgets, records, and operational systems, and recommend improvements to efficiency, safety, and animal care outcomes.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Benefits are referenced in a linked Compensation and Benefits Summary for non-union full-time employees; specific benefits are not listed in the job description.

What This Job Offers

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