Animal Keeper – SMRH

Kate on Conservation; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in wildlife conservation is seeking dedicated individuals to provide exceptional care for animals at the Regenstein Small Mammal/Reptile House. This role involves daily animal care, maintenance of exhibits, and supporting conservation efforts through educational programs and research. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in animal husbandry and behavior, with the ability to work safely with various species. Join a passionate team committed to fostering an inclusive environment and making a significant impact in wildlife conservation.

Qualifications

• Experience in animal care in a zoo or similar setting is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of husbandry, animal behavior, enrichment, and training practices.

Responsibilities

• Provides daily care to animals and maintains their enclosures.
• Cleans and maintains animal exhibits to ensure health and presentation.
• Monitors animal health and reports abnormalities.

Skills

Animal Care

Observation Skills

Record Keeping

Communication

Organization

Judgment

Education

High School Diploma or GED

College Degree in Biological Sciences

Tools

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Job description

Under general supervision, participates in all aspects of daily animal care and maintenance of the Regenstein Small Mammal/Reptile House.

Essential Functions:

1. Provides daily care to animals and their enclosures, including cleaning, feeding, watering, securing, grooming (for domestic animals), observing, training, enrichment, record keeping, and maintaining exhibits.
2. Performs heavy manual and skilled tasks such as moving food items, hoses, hay bales, equipment, and crated animals.
3. Supports zoo conservation efforts by participating in educational programs, conducting tours, and assisting in research projects.
4. Cleans and maintains animal exhibits using chemical agents and tools to ensure animal health and public presentation.
5. Maintains exhibit displays, including minor repairs and modifications.
6. Prepares and distributes animal diets and humanely dispatches live feed as directed by senior staff.
7. Administers therapeutics prescribed by the veterinarian under supervision.
8. Monitors animal health daily, reports abnormalities, and documents observations.
9. Recommends diet or habitat changes and initiates related actions.
10. Monitors habitat conditions, initiates repairs, and maintains a safe environment.
11. Maintains inventory of supplies and equipment.
12. Follows safety guidelines, participates in animal escape drills, and assists in capturing and restraining animals.
13. Coordinates with other zoo departments as assigned.
14. Trains and orients staff at assigned locations.

Additional Responsibilities:

1. Night shift keepers observe animals, administer medications, feed, record, and assist with security.
2. May oversee a specialized aspect of animal collection.
3. Performs other duties to support zoo operations.
4. Works flexible hours, including weekends, holidays, and special events.

Requirements:

1. High school diploma or GED required; college degree in Biological Sciences or related field preferred.
2. Knowledge of husbandry, animal behavior, enrichment, and training practices.
3. Experience in animal care in a zoo or similar setting is highly desirable.
4. Skills in observation, record-keeping, communication, organization, and judgment.
5. Ability to work with potentially dangerous animals and machinery safely.
6. Physical ability to perform tasks including lifting up to 50 pounds, working in various weather conditions, and wearing PPE.
7. Valid driver’s license preferred.

Lincoln Park Zoo values diversity and encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply, fostering an inclusive environment.