BASIC FUNCTION:

This position contributes to the success of Brookfield Zoo Chicago ("BZC") by, under close supervision, providing general care for animals and performs related work of maintaining buildings, grounds, and interpretives in assigned area. Inform, assist, and direct guests as necessary.

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. *Prepare and distribute food as directed.
2. *Observe assigned animals closely, routinely, and objectively report to supervisor on their behavior, health, and welfare. Keep animal records as assigned.
3. *Observe condition of assigned area(s), animal enclosures, and equipment. Monitor and clean public space(s), plants, and interpretives as assigned. Report maintenance needs.
4. *Perform minor maintenance tasks as assigned.
5. *Clean animal enclosures, pools, and service areas.
6. *Study specific reference materials about animals in assigned area. Read other zoological and husbandry texts as assigned.
7. *Perform routines of assigned areas and specialized procedures as directed.
8. *Monitor guests to insure animal and human safety and protection of BZC property.
9. *Communicate with and assist guests. Take initiative to facilitate guests' appreciation of animals and enjoyment of their visit.
10. *Demonstrate knowledge of and implement BZC-wide and area emergency procedures as directed.
11. Other related duties as assigned.

* Denotes Essential Job Function(s)

POSITION REQUIREMENTS AND SPECIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in relevant biological field or equivalent combination of training and/or experience required. High school graduate or GED equivalent required.
• Animal care facility, farm, kennel, or equivalent animalexperience required.
• Incumbent must possess an understanding of practical principles of animal behaviorand the ability towork with live animals safely.
• Good interpersonal skills. The ability to interact in a courteous and professional manner.
• Must be capable of dealing with emergencies calmly and efficiently.
• Must learn and integrate information, knowledge, and direction quickly.
• 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.
• Incumbent must have or acquire general knowledge about BZC, gain an understanding of BZC's mission, and become familiar with and follow BZC policies and procedures.
• Incumbent must develop proficiency in routines of assigned areas and specialized procedures as directed.
• Incumbent must demonstrate the ability to accurately perform job duties.
• Must be reliable.
• Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language fluently.
• Cultural proficiency; experience and/or ability to work and interact effectively with a diverse, multicultural audience.
• Valid driver's license required for Illinois residents within 90 days of hire; valid out-of-state license required for out-of-state residents.

DESIRABLE/PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Knowledge of natural history, zoology, or animal husbandry preferred.
• Multilingual ability, Spanish fluency a plus.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: 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. This is a full-time position with rotating shifts, including weekends, holidays, and evenings. Assistant Animal Care Specialist is a one-year probationary position to attain Animal Care Specialist status. Animal Care Specialist positions are frequently subjected to potential hazards that include direct contact with or close proximity to live animals. Animal Care Specialist positions are physically demanding, and employees may be subjected to a variety of physical demands and environmental factors and exposures. Incumbents 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.

• Responsibility for Society Property: Incumbent is responsible for the care and proper use of equipment and property.
• Responsibility for Safety of Others: Incumbent is 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 as appropriate.
• Contacts: Primary contacts include BZC staff, professional associates, volunteers, docents, interns, and guests.
• Other Qualifications and Characteristics: 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.

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