Primates Care Specialist - Hands-On Zoo Care

Brookfield Zoo Chicago; Brookfield (IL); On-site; USD 36,000 - 51,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical Insurance

Paid Holidays

Sick Leave

Retirement Savings

Disability Insurance

Job summary

Brookfield Zoo Chicago is seeking an Animal Care Specialist - Primates to join our care team. Under supervision, you will feed, monitor, and care for primates and maintain clean enclosures and habitats.

Qualifications include a Bachelor's in a biological field or equivalent, prior ACS experience, strong observation skills, and the ability to work safely with live animals. This full-time, union position offers benefits and weekend shifts.

Qualifications

• 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.
• 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.
• Desirable: Multilingual ability, Spanish fluency a plus.

Responsibilities

• Order, prepare, and distribute food as directed.
• Observe assigned animals closely, report to supervisor on their behavior, health, and welfare.
• Observe condition of enclosures and equipment; monitor and clean public spaces; report maintenance needs.
• Clean animal enclosures, pools, and service areas.
• Study reference materials and zoological texts as assigned.
• Perform area routines proficiently; develop proficiency in specialized procedures.
• Monitor guests to ensure animal and human safety and protect BZC property.
• Communicate with and assist guests; facilitate guests’ appreciation of animals and enjoyment of their visit.
• Demonstrate knowledge of and implement BZC-wide emergency procedures.
• Train and direct interns, seasonals, ACS aides, and volunteers as assigned.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Education

Bachelor's degree in relevant biological field

High School Diploma or GED

Interpersonal skills

English language proficiency

Tools

Microsoft Office

ZIMS or similar

Job description

Brookfield Zoo Chicago is seeking an Animal Care Specialist - Primates to join our care team. Under supervision, you will feed, monitor, and care for primates and maintain clean enclosures and habitats.

Qualifications include a Bachelor's in a biological field or equivalent, prior ACS experience, strong observation skills, and the ability to work safely with live animals. This full-time, union position offers benefits and weekend shifts.