Aquatics - Animal Care Specialist (Seasonal)

This is a temporary/seasonal union position with a starting pay rate of $15.00 per hour and requires a union initiation fee upon hire and monthly union dues/fees. The Benefit Summary Information (for this position, please refer to the seasonal employees section): Benefits Table or copy and paste the following in your internet browser www.brookfieldzoo.org/custom.czs/files/06/06337b2c-b3db-45a2-8eb2-f8362486bd0e.pdf (please refer to the union, seasonal employee section).

BASIC FUNCTION:

This position contributes to the success of Brookfield Zoo Chicago ("BZC") by providing general high-quality care for the welfare of the collection and performing related work of maintaining buildings, grounds, and interpretives in assigned area under close supervision. Informs, assists, and directs guests as necessary to provide a great guest experience.

PRIMARY JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions of the position.

1. *Cleans animal enclosures, pools, and service areas as assigned.
2. *Prepares and distributes food as directed.
3. *Observes assigned animals closely, routinely, and objectively reports to supervisor on their behavior, health, and welfare. Observes condition of assigned area(s), animal enclosures, and equipment. Keeps animal records as assigned.
4. *Performs routines of assigned areas and specialized procedures as directed.
5. *Communicates with and assists guests. Takes initiative to facilitate guests' appreciation of animals and enjoyment of their zoo visit.
6. *Demonstrates knowledge of and implements BZC-wide and area emergency procedures as directed.
7. *Monitors and cleans public space(s), plants, and interpretives as assigned. Reports maintenance needs timely. Performs minor maintenance tasks as assigned.
8. *Monitors visitors to ensure animal and human safety and protection of park property.
9. *Studies specific reference materials about animals in assigned area. Reads other zoological and husbandry texts as assigned.
10. Other related duties as assigned.

* Denotes Essential Job Function(s)

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

• High school graduate or GED equivalent required.
• Must possess an understanding of practical principles of animal behavior and ability to work with live animals safely.
• Must be a minimum of 18 years of age.
• Good interpersonal and communications skills. Must be able to interact in a courteous and professional manner.
• Knowledge of natural history, zoology, or animal husbandry preferred.
• Must be capable of dealing with emergencies calmly and efficiently.
• Must be reliable.
• Must be able to learn and integrate information, knowledge, and direction quickly.

• English fluency at a professional working proficiency.
• Cultural proficiency; experience and/or ability to work and interact effectively with a diverse, multicultural audience.

• For Marine Aquatic Animal Care Specialist positions, SCUBA Certification is required upon hire.
• Valid driver's license required.

DESIRABLE/PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree or college coursework in relevant biological field or equivalent combination of training and experience preferred.
• Minimum six months animal care facility, farm, kennel, or equivalent animal experience preferred.
• Multilingual ability, Spanish fluency a plus

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

This is a temporary position with rotating shifts, including weekends, holidays, and evenings.

Expected to acquire general knowledge about Brookfield Zoo Chicago, gain an understanding of the mission, vision, and values, and become familiar with and follow policies and procedures, including emergency procedures. Responsible for the care and proper use of equipment and property. Responsible for the safety of guests, animals, employees, interns, volunteers, etc., as instructed. Must be alert to hazards and potential hazards and take action to remedy or report these timely as appropriate. Primary contacts include BZC staff, professional associates, volunteers, interns, and guests. Incumbent must possess a genuine interest in animals and their welfare. Must work cooperatively and follow appropriate communication channels. Must possess ability to adjust quickly to changes, and represent BZC in a professional manner at all times.

Animal Care Specialists are frequently subjected to potential hazards that include direct contact with or close proximity to live animals. Animal Care Specialists positions are physically demanding, and employees may be subjected to a variety of physical demands and environmental factors and exposures. May be required to undergo physical examinations, including vaccinations, inoculations, blood tests, or other such testing or procedures as may be required by law or deemed reasonably necessary. This job description contains the primary duties and responsibilities of the position, but in no way implies that these are the only duties the employee may ever be called upon to perform.

If interested in being considered for this opportunity, please visit the BZC Career Center to obtain more details about the position and to apply by submitting your profile. Please visit our website at brookfieldzoo.org/careers. Please look for requisition number 107.

BENEFITS INFORMATION:

www.brookfieldzoo.org/custom.czs/files/06/06337b2c-b3db-45a2-8eb2-f8362486bd0e.pdf

We are pleased that you are considering joining our dedicated team at Brookfield Zoo Chicago (BZC). Below is a summary of Brookfield Zoo Chicago's generous employee benefits. Please note, benefits vary based on whether benefits are provided through the Teamsters Union for positions represented by the Teamsters or by Brookfield Zoo Chicago for non-union positions. For non-union positions, some benefits also differ by pay grade classification if noted.

Seasonal Employees

Mental Health: Support, counseling, and resources for life issues at no cost to you. Eligible employees and their immediate family have access to Perspectives, a dynamic Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) which provides 24/7, confidential care and resources to address work and life stressors.

Retirement Savings: A 401(k) savings plan is available for all employees. Choose either pre-tax and/or Roth after-tax contributions. First of the quarter following one year of service, eligible employees receive matching contributions of 50% of the first 6% you contribute.

Other Benefits & Perks for All Employees (unless otherwise noted)

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• Chicago Zoological Society | Brookfield Zoo, 3300 Golf Rd, Brookfield, Illinois, United States of America