Brookfieldzoo
Birds - Lead Animal Care Specialist
Brookfieldzoo, Brookfield, Illinois, United States, 60513
Chicago Zoological Society | Brookfield Zoo, 3300 Golf Rd, Brookfield, Illinois, United States of America Req #76
Friday, February 7, 2025
Join the PRIDE!
Since opening in 1934, Brookfield Zoo Chicago has had an international reputation for taking a cutting-edge role in animal care and conservation of the natural world. Brookfield Zoo Chicago is an active partner in wildlife protection programs around the world, including the Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, the world’s longest-running study of bottlenose dolphins. We have pioneered the field of conservation psychology, the study of how people connect with animals and nature. We are able to reach so many audiences each year, including 2 million zoo guests engaged by unique exhibits and programs; some 250,000 schoolchildren, campers, and families who participate in award-winning science education programs; nearly 24,000 teachers who take part in our professional development workshops; and diverse communities across Chicagoland. Brookfield Zoo Chicago is known throughout the world as a leader in animal welfare and conservation; this venerable institution also serves as a potent economic engine, top tourism attraction, and award-winning educational institution. In the Bird Department at Brookfield Zoo Chicago, we are committed to sustaining avian populations and enhancing avian care. Through collaborative conservation and research initiatives, we strive to make a meaningful impact on the avian species under our stewardship and their natural habitats. Our mission encompasses more than the care of birds; we are dedicated to providing our guests with memorable experiences that foster a profound connection to the natural world. We prioritize the future of avian care through our comprehensive internship program and ongoing professional development for staff, thereby cultivating the next generation of leaders within the zoological community. We are pleased to announce an opening for the Lead Animal Care Specialist position. If you possess a strong passion for innovation, mentorship, and guest engagement, we invite you to join a team that makes a significant difference. At Brookfield Zoo Chicago, you will have the opportunity to: Lead and Inspire:
Guide a dedicated team of animal care specialists, seasonal staff, and interns. Innovate and Grow:
Implement advanced avian management techniques, develop guidelines, and contribute to research initiatives that set new standards in avian care. Engage and Educate:
Deliver exceptional experiences for our guests while fostering a deep appreciation for wildlife. Make an Impact:
Collaborate with a passionate team to drive pivotal local conservation initiatives that enhance avian species and their natural environments. This is a union full-time position, grade U610. The hourly rate for this position is $35.20/hour. For benefits summary information, please refer to the union, full-time employee section. Primary job duties and responsibilities: Perform in a proactive leadership role and communicate regularly with area supervisors/managers regarding animal management, facility maintenance, and staff supervision and development. Assist in departmental hiring, scheduling, and work assignments, and the development of departmental goals and plans. Establish work priorities for the department. Routinely monitor and review the work performance of ACS staff in assigned area and ensure completion of tasks in a timely and effective fashion. Prepare and conduct performance appraisals as assigned. Responsible for current animal and equipment inventory. Verify employee work schedules. Provide written reports as assigned. Handle personnel situations in a timely, objective, and consistent manner and in accordance with BZC policies and the union contract. Order, prepare, and distribute food to animal areas as required. Ensure compliance with all BZC policies and procedures. Observe assigned animals closely and objectively. Apply knowledge and prior experiences to affect or implement change where appropriate. Maintain and utilize animal records. Observe condition of assigned area(s), animal enclosures, and equipment. Monitor and clean public space(s), plants, and interpretives as required. Report maintenance needs as appropriate and perform minor maintenance tasks. Clean animal enclosures, pools, and service areas as required. Maintain detailed and current knowledge of natural history, husbandry, and captive management of species and individuals in assigned areas. Maintain proficiency in area routines and specialized procedures. Monitor guests to ensure animal and human safety and protection of BZC property. Communicate with and assist guests. Take initiative to facilitate guests’ appreciation of animals and enjoyment of their visit. Serve in a leadership role in directing the management and operations within assigned area and ensure short-term goals are developed and achieved. Solicit input on improving operations and animal management procedures. Demonstrate knowledge of and implement BZC-wide and area emergency procedures as directed. Train and direct work of interns, seasonal employees, and full-time ACS staff as assigned. Other related duties as assigned. Position requirements: Bachelor's degree in relevant biological field or equivalent combination of training and experience required. High school diploma or educational equivalent (e.g., GED). Minimum four years of experience as an animal care specialist or equivalent required. Track record of exemplary performance as a supervisory keeper or equivalent, relevant experience. Strong supervisory skills. Demonstrated ability to promote good morale and productivity in the workplace. Detailed and current knowledge of natural history and principles of animal behavior and husbandry required. Ability to work with live animals safely. Good communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to interact in a courteous and professional manner. Ability to maintain good working relationships both internally and externally. Knowledgeable in the management of captive populations including related AZA conservation programs. Proven ability to train and direct the work of others. Demonstrated capacity to guide the professional development of others. Ability to effectively mediate routine personnel issues and conflicts between staff. Capable of dealing with emergencies calmly and efficiently. Ability to adjust quickly to changes. Good decision-making skills and ability to make sound, independent judgments. Ability to integrate and apply knowledge and prior experience to affect or implement changes. Good problem-solving skills. Ability to identify problems and utilize appropriate information to develop solutions. Ability to work with minimal supervision. Good time management skills. Must demonstrate flexibility, creativity, and responsibility in use of time. Computer proficiency with Microsoft Suite (Outlook, Word), Microsoft 365, ZIMS or similar required. Cultural competency; experience and/or ability to work and interact effectively with a diverse, multicultural audience. Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language at a professional working proficiency. Valid driver’s license required. Illinois residents must possess a valid Illinois license within 90 days of hire. Valid out-of-state license required for out-of-state residents. Desirable/preferred qualifications: Additional qualifications and experience is preferred based upon the specific animals and work area where the ACS will be working. Generally, previous work experience with assigned taxa is preferred. Multilingual ability, Spanish fluency a plus. Additional information:
This position description summarizes the primary duties and functions of this position but should not be considered a complete listing of every duty the incumbent may ever be called upon to perform. Responsibility for BZC 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 act to remedy or report these as appropriate. Contacts:
Primary contacts include staff, professional associates, volunteers, docents, interns, and guests. Other Expectations and Characteristics:
Incumbent must possess a genuine interest in animals and their welfare. Must work cooperatively and communicate effectively and promptly with co-workers, managers, and guests following appropriate communication channels. Must understand or quickly acquire understanding of how the department interfaces with BZC-wide operations. Must be able to learn BZC conservation programs as they apply to assigned area(s). This is a full-time position with rotating shifts, including weekends, holidays, and evenings. The mission of Brookfield Zoo Chicago is to inspire conservation leadership by connecting people to wildlife and nature. Accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, American Humane, and the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums. Brookfield Zoo Chicago is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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Since opening in 1934, Brookfield Zoo Chicago has had an international reputation for taking a cutting-edge role in animal care and conservation of the natural world. Brookfield Zoo Chicago is an active partner in wildlife protection programs around the world, including the Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, the world’s longest-running study of bottlenose dolphins. We have pioneered the field of conservation psychology, the study of how people connect with animals and nature. We are able to reach so many audiences each year, including 2 million zoo guests engaged by unique exhibits and programs; some 250,000 schoolchildren, campers, and families who participate in award-winning science education programs; nearly 24,000 teachers who take part in our professional development workshops; and diverse communities across Chicagoland. Brookfield Zoo Chicago is known throughout the world as a leader in animal welfare and conservation; this venerable institution also serves as a potent economic engine, top tourism attraction, and award-winning educational institution. In the Bird Department at Brookfield Zoo Chicago, we are committed to sustaining avian populations and enhancing avian care. Through collaborative conservation and research initiatives, we strive to make a meaningful impact on the avian species under our stewardship and their natural habitats. Our mission encompasses more than the care of birds; we are dedicated to providing our guests with memorable experiences that foster a profound connection to the natural world. We prioritize the future of avian care through our comprehensive internship program and ongoing professional development for staff, thereby cultivating the next generation of leaders within the zoological community. We are pleased to announce an opening for the Lead Animal Care Specialist position. If you possess a strong passion for innovation, mentorship, and guest engagement, we invite you to join a team that makes a significant difference. At Brookfield Zoo Chicago, you will have the opportunity to: Lead and Inspire:
Guide a dedicated team of animal care specialists, seasonal staff, and interns. Innovate and Grow:
Implement advanced avian management techniques, develop guidelines, and contribute to research initiatives that set new standards in avian care. Engage and Educate:
Deliver exceptional experiences for our guests while fostering a deep appreciation for wildlife. Make an Impact:
Collaborate with a passionate team to drive pivotal local conservation initiatives that enhance avian species and their natural environments. This is a union full-time position, grade U610. The hourly rate for this position is $35.20/hour. For benefits summary information, please refer to the union, full-time employee section. Primary job duties and responsibilities: Perform in a proactive leadership role and communicate regularly with area supervisors/managers regarding animal management, facility maintenance, and staff supervision and development. Assist in departmental hiring, scheduling, and work assignments, and the development of departmental goals and plans. Establish work priorities for the department. Routinely monitor and review the work performance of ACS staff in assigned area and ensure completion of tasks in a timely and effective fashion. Prepare and conduct performance appraisals as assigned. Responsible for current animal and equipment inventory. Verify employee work schedules. Provide written reports as assigned. Handle personnel situations in a timely, objective, and consistent manner and in accordance with BZC policies and the union contract. Order, prepare, and distribute food to animal areas as required. Ensure compliance with all BZC policies and procedures. Observe assigned animals closely and objectively. Apply knowledge and prior experiences to affect or implement change where appropriate. Maintain and utilize animal records. Observe condition of assigned area(s), animal enclosures, and equipment. Monitor and clean public space(s), plants, and interpretives as required. Report maintenance needs as appropriate and perform minor maintenance tasks. Clean animal enclosures, pools, and service areas as required. Maintain detailed and current knowledge of natural history, husbandry, and captive management of species and individuals in assigned areas. Maintain proficiency in area routines and specialized procedures. Monitor guests to ensure animal and human safety and protection of BZC property. Communicate with and assist guests. Take initiative to facilitate guests’ appreciation of animals and enjoyment of their visit. Serve in a leadership role in directing the management and operations within assigned area and ensure short-term goals are developed and achieved. Solicit input on improving operations and animal management procedures. Demonstrate knowledge of and implement BZC-wide and area emergency procedures as directed. Train and direct work of interns, seasonal employees, and full-time ACS staff as assigned. Other related duties as assigned. Position requirements: Bachelor's degree in relevant biological field or equivalent combination of training and experience required. High school diploma or educational equivalent (e.g., GED). Minimum four years of experience as an animal care specialist or equivalent required. Track record of exemplary performance as a supervisory keeper or equivalent, relevant experience. Strong supervisory skills. Demonstrated ability to promote good morale and productivity in the workplace. Detailed and current knowledge of natural history and principles of animal behavior and husbandry required. Ability to work with live animals safely. Good communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to interact in a courteous and professional manner. Ability to maintain good working relationships both internally and externally. Knowledgeable in the management of captive populations including related AZA conservation programs. Proven ability to train and direct the work of others. Demonstrated capacity to guide the professional development of others. Ability to effectively mediate routine personnel issues and conflicts between staff. Capable of dealing with emergencies calmly and efficiently. Ability to adjust quickly to changes. Good decision-making skills and ability to make sound, independent judgments. Ability to integrate and apply knowledge and prior experience to affect or implement changes. Good problem-solving skills. Ability to identify problems and utilize appropriate information to develop solutions. Ability to work with minimal supervision. Good time management skills. Must demonstrate flexibility, creativity, and responsibility in use of time. Computer proficiency with Microsoft Suite (Outlook, Word), Microsoft 365, ZIMS or similar required. Cultural competency; experience and/or ability to work and interact effectively with a diverse, multicultural audience. Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language at a professional working proficiency. Valid driver’s license required. Illinois residents must possess a valid Illinois license within 90 days of hire. Valid out-of-state license required for out-of-state residents. Desirable/preferred qualifications: Additional qualifications and experience is preferred based upon the specific animals and work area where the ACS will be working. Generally, previous work experience with assigned taxa is preferred. Multilingual ability, Spanish fluency a plus. Additional information:
This position description summarizes the primary duties and functions of this position but should not be considered a complete listing of every duty the incumbent may ever be called upon to perform. Responsibility for BZC 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 act to remedy or report these as appropriate. Contacts:
Primary contacts include staff, professional associates, volunteers, docents, interns, and guests. Other Expectations and Characteristics:
Incumbent must possess a genuine interest in animals and their welfare. Must work cooperatively and communicate effectively and promptly with co-workers, managers, and guests following appropriate communication channels. Must understand or quickly acquire understanding of how the department interfaces with BZC-wide operations. Must be able to learn BZC conservation programs as they apply to assigned area(s). This is a full-time position with rotating shifts, including weekends, holidays, and evenings. The mission of Brookfield Zoo Chicago is to inspire conservation leadership by connecting people to wildlife and nature. Accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, American Humane, and the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums. Brookfield Zoo Chicago is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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