What are the responsibilities and job description for the Marine Mammals - Animal Care Specialist position at Brookfield Zoo Chicago?
Join the PRIDE and Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s mission to ignite emotional connections with wildlife that spark conservation action while leading vital programs to protect endangered species. Our beautiful 235-acre campus offers a living classroom that is home to over 3,500 animals representing 500 species. Brookfield Zoo Chicago is embarking on a groundbreaking, ambitious Next Century Plan to achieve our vision. It is the beginning of an exciting transformative journey!
The Animal Care Specialist contributes to the success of Brookfield Zoo Chicago (“BZC”) by, under direction of area supervisors, providing general care for animals and performing related work of maintaining buildings, grounds, and interpretives in assigned area. Inform, assist, and direct visitors as necessary. Perform routine duties with minimal supervision and new duties with detailed direction.
This is a union, fulltime position and the hourly rate is $29.88/hour. For our Benefits Summary Information, follow this link to our Benefits Table or copy and paste the following in your internet browser https://www.brookfieldzoo.org/custom.czs/files/06/06337b2c-b3db-45a2-8eb2-f8362486bd0e.pdf (please refer to the union, full-time employee section), and/or refer to the benefit details provided below after the job description information.
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. *Order, 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. Perform minor maintenance tasks as assigned.
4. *Clean animal enclosures, pools, and service areas as assigned.
5. *Study specific reference materials and other zoological and husbandry texts as assigned.
6. *Perform area routines proficiently. Continue developing proficiency in specialized procedures.
7. *Monitor guests to insure animal and human safety and protection of BZC property.
8. *Communicate with and assist guests. Take initiative to facilitate guests’ appreciation of animals and enjoyment of their visit.
9. *Demonstrate knowledge of and implement BZC-wide and area emergency procedures as directed.
10. *Train and direct interns, seasonals, ACS aides, and volunteers as assigned.
11. Other related duties as assigned.
This position description summarizes the primary duties and functions of this position, but should not be considered a complete listing of every duty one may ever be called upon to perform.
Responsibility for Society Property: Responsible for the care and proper use of equipment and property.
Responsibility for Safety of Others: 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: 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 possess ability to adjust quickly to changes. Expected to acquire general knowledge about Brookfield Zoo Chicago, gain an understanding of BCZ’s mission, and become familiar with and follow policies and procedures. Must understand or acquire understanding of how the department interfaces with BZC-wide operations. Must represent BZC in a professional manner at all times.
Animal Care Specialists (“ACS”) are frequently subjected to potential hazards that include direct contact with or close proximity to live animals. ACS 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 is a full-time position with rotating shifts, including weekends, holidays, and evenings.
Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s mission is to inspire conservation leadership by connecting people to wildlife and nature.
Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums, and ArbNet. Humane Certified™ by the American Humane Society. Brookfield Zoo Chicago is a private nonprofit organization operated by the Chicago Zoological Society on land owned by the Forest Preserves of Cook County.
Benefits information:
www.brookfieldzoo.org/custom.czs/files/06/06337b2c-b3db-45a2-8eb2-f8362486bd0e.pdf
Union Full-Time Employees
Eligibility: Eligible employee is defined as a regular, full-time employee who is regularly scheduled to work a minimum of 35 hours or more per week.
Time away from work: Vacation time is accrued on a per-payroll basis based on an employment anniversary year starting on the date of hire. Unused vacation time does not carry over from one calendar year to the next.
Vacation: Vacation is earned based on the following schedule:
Years of Service
New hire-5 years
5 years
10 years
15 years
Vacation
Sick Time: Sick time accrues at a rate equivalent to 10 sick days per year. Any employee who does not use sick time during the calendar year is credited with two (2) additional sick days that year. Accumulation of sick time is unlimited.
Holidays: Union employees are eligible for 10 paid holidays per year.
1. New Year’s Day 2. Martin Luther King Jr. Day 3. President’s Day 4. Memorial Day 5. Juneteenth
6. Independence Day 7. Labor Day 8. Veteran’s Day 9. Thanksgiving Day 10. Christmas Day
Medical Insurance: BZC pays 100% of the cost of benefits for bargaining unit employees. There is no cost to the employee. Medical insurance is provided through the Teamsters union. One plan is available. A waiver credit is provided for employees who waive enrollment in medical insurance. Coverage begins following a 90-day waiting period. Coverage continues for 90 days after the employee’s date of separation. Employees can also cover their spouse and child(ren) under age 27.
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.
Employer-paid Income Protection: Short-Term disability benefits are provided through the Teamsters union, for up to 26 weeks, if you are unable to work. Long-Term disability benefits are provided through Brookfield Zoo Chicago for up to 60% of the employee’s monthly wages if the employee is unable to return to work. Basic Term Life insurance is provided through the Teamsters union. Eligible employees are automatically enrolled in these benefits.
Voluntary Benefits:
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.
The Animal Care Specialist contributes to the success of Brookfield Zoo Chicago (“BZC”) by, under direction of area supervisors, providing general care for animals and performing related work of maintaining buildings, grounds, and interpretives in assigned area. Inform, assist, and direct visitors as necessary. Perform routine duties with minimal supervision and new duties with detailed direction.
This is a union, fulltime position and the hourly rate is $29.88/hour. For our Benefits Summary Information, follow this link to our Benefits Table or copy and paste the following in your internet browser https://www.brookfieldzoo.org/custom.czs/files/06/06337b2c-b3db-45a2-8eb2-f8362486bd0e.pdf (please refer to the union, full-time employee section), and/or refer to the benefit details provided below after the job description information.
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. *Order, 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. Perform minor maintenance tasks as assigned.
4. *Clean animal enclosures, pools, and service areas as assigned.
5. *Study specific reference materials and other zoological and husbandry texts as assigned.
6. *Perform area routines proficiently. Continue developing proficiency in specialized procedures.
7. *Monitor guests to insure animal and human safety and protection of BZC property.
8. *Communicate with and assist guests. Take initiative to facilitate guests’ appreciation of animals and enjoyment of their visit.
9. *Demonstrate knowledge of and implement BZC-wide and area emergency procedures as directed.
10. *Train and direct interns, seasonals, ACS aides, and volunteers as assigned.
11. Other related duties as assigned.
- Denotes Essential Job Function(s)
- Bachelor's degree in relevant biological field or equivalent combination of training and/or experience required. High school diploma or educational equivalent (e.g., GED.) required.
- Successful completion of Assistant Animal Care Specialist (“ACS”) probationary period or equivalent combination of training and/or experience in a zoo or aquarium required.
- SCUBA Certification required within one year of employment.
- Must possess an understanding of practical principles of animal behavior and the ability to work with live animals safely.
- Knowledge of natural history, zoology, and general animal behavior and husbandry required.
- Solid interpersonal skills required.
- Capable of dealing with emergencies calmly and efficiently.
- Ability to learn and integrate information, knowledge, and direction quickly, and complete tasks as needed.
- 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.
- Ability to accurately and proficiently perform assigned routines and specialized procedures as directed. Must possess a record of consistency and accuracy in performing job duties.
- Ability to take initiative in identifying and solving problems, recommending ideas and viable suggestions to improve operations.
- Ability to work with minimal supervision.
- Ability to train, educate, and direct the basic work of seasonal employees and interns.
- Must be reliable.
- 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.
- Ability to read, write and speak the English language at a professional working proficiency.
- Valid driver’s license required for Illinois residents within 90 days of hire; valid out-of-state license required for out-of-state residents.
- Additional qualifications and experience may be required depending upon the specific animals and work area this position will be working.
- Multilingual ability, Spanish fluency a plus.
This position description summarizes the primary duties and functions of this position, but should not be considered a complete listing of every duty one may ever be called upon to perform.
Responsibility for Society Property: Responsible for the care and proper use of equipment and property.
Responsibility for Safety of Others: 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: 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 possess ability to adjust quickly to changes. Expected to acquire general knowledge about Brookfield Zoo Chicago, gain an understanding of BCZ’s mission, and become familiar with and follow policies and procedures. Must understand or acquire understanding of how the department interfaces with BZC-wide operations. Must represent BZC in a professional manner at all times.
Animal Care Specialists (“ACS”) are frequently subjected to potential hazards that include direct contact with or close proximity to live animals. ACS 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 is a full-time position with rotating shifts, including weekends, holidays, and evenings.
Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s mission is to inspire conservation leadership by connecting people to wildlife and nature.
Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums, and ArbNet. Humane Certified™ by the American Humane Society. Brookfield Zoo Chicago is a private nonprofit organization operated by the Chicago Zoological Society on land owned by the Forest Preserves of Cook County.
Benefits information:
www.brookfieldzoo.org/custom.czs/files/06/06337b2c-b3db-45a2-8eb2-f8362486bd0e.pdf
Union Full-Time Employees
Eligibility: Eligible employee is defined as a regular, full-time employee who is regularly scheduled to work a minimum of 35 hours or more per week.
Time away from work: Vacation time is accrued on a per-payroll basis based on an employment anniversary year starting on the date of hire. Unused vacation time does not carry over from one calendar year to the next.
Vacation: Vacation is earned based on the following schedule:
Years of Service
New hire-5 years
5 years
10 years
15 years
Vacation
- 2 weeks (80 hours)
- 3 weeks (120 hours)
- 4 weeks (160 hours)
- 5 weeks (200 hours)
Sick Time: Sick time accrues at a rate equivalent to 10 sick days per year. Any employee who does not use sick time during the calendar year is credited with two (2) additional sick days that year. Accumulation of sick time is unlimited.
Holidays: Union employees are eligible for 10 paid holidays per year.
1. New Year’s Day 2. Martin Luther King Jr. Day 3. President’s Day 4. Memorial Day 5. Juneteenth
6. Independence Day 7. Labor Day 8. Veteran’s Day 9. Thanksgiving Day 10. Christmas Day
Medical Insurance: BZC pays 100% of the cost of benefits for bargaining unit employees. There is no cost to the employee. Medical insurance is provided through the Teamsters union. One plan is available. A waiver credit is provided for employees who waive enrollment in medical insurance. Coverage begins following a 90-day waiting period. Coverage continues for 90 days after the employee’s date of separation. Employees can also cover their spouse and child(ren) under age 27.
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.
Employer-paid Income Protection: Short-Term disability benefits are provided through the Teamsters union, for up to 26 weeks, if you are unable to work. Long-Term disability benefits are provided through Brookfield Zoo Chicago for up to 60% of the employee’s monthly wages if the employee is unable to return to work. Basic Term Life insurance is provided through the Teamsters union. Eligible employees are automatically enrolled in these benefits.
Voluntary Benefits:
- Group Accident Insurance
- Group Critical Illness Insurance
- Identity Theft Protection
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.
Salary : $30
