Position Description:
Chicago Zoological Society/Brookfield Zoo is recruiting a full time Animal Keeper – Marine Aquatics specialty to work in the Bird/Reptile Department. The Marine Aquatics section has over 125,000 gallons of aquatic exhibits and reserves which consists of a large diversity of fresh and salt water organisms including native Chicagoland fish, Indo-Pacific Corals, Pacific cold saltwater invertebrates and fishes, and Atlantic warm water fishes and a few species of elasmobranchs. Over a thousand individual fish and invertebrates represent our collection.
Responsibilities: Prepare and distribute food as directed. Observe assigned animals closely, routinely, and objectively report to supervisor on their behavior, health, and welfare. Keep animal records as assigned. 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. Clean animal enclosures, pools, and service areas. Study specific reference materials about animals in assigned area. Read other zoological and husbandry texts as assigned. Perform routines of assigned areas and specialized procedures as directed. Monitor guests to insure animal and human safety and protection of Society property. Communicate with and assist guests. Take initiative to facilitate guests’ appreciation of animals and enjoyment of their visit. Demonstrate knowledge of and implement Society-wide and area emergency procedures as directed. Other related duties as assigned.
Requirements: Bachelor's degree in relevant biological field or equivalent combination of training and/or experience required. Animal care facility, farm, kennel, or equivalent animal experience required. Incumbent must possess an understanding of practical principles of animal behavior and the ability to work with live animals safely. Good interpersonal skills. The ability 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 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 the Society, gain an understanding of the Society’s mission, and become familiar with and follow Society 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. 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. Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language fluently. Spanish fluency a plus, but not required. For The Living Coast (Marine Aquatics) and Seven Seas keeper positions, SCUBA Certification required within one year of hire. This is a full-time position with rotating shifts, including weekends, holidays, and evenings.
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