Marine Mammals - Animal Care Specialist; Seasonal

Overview

Marine Mammals - Animal Care Specialist (Seasonal) — Chicago Zoological Society | Brookfield Zoo, 3300 Golf Rd, Brookfield, Illinois, United States of America

Posted Thursday, January 29, 2026 at 6:00 AM

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The Animal Care Specialist is a seasonal, union, hourly position grade U710 with an hourly rate of $15.00, depending on previous BZC union seasons. This position is expected to start very soon in our marine mammal area. Please see the Benefits Summary section below the job description information.

BASIC FUNCTION:

This position contributes to the success of Brookfield Zoo Chicago (BZC) by providing general high-quality care for the welfare of the collection and performing related work of maintaining buildings, grounds, and interpretives in assigned area under close supervision. Informs, assists, and directs guests as necessary to provide a great guest experience.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions of the position.

• Cleans animal enclosures, pools, and service areas as assigned.
• Prepares and distributes food as directed.
• Observes assigned animals closely, routinely, and objectively reports to supervisor on their behavior, health, and welfare. Observes condition of assigned area(s), animal enclosures, and equipment. Keeps animal records as assigned.
• Performs routines of assigned areas and specialized procedures as directed.
• Communicates with and assists guests. Takes initiative to facilitate guests’ appreciation of animals and enjoyment of their zoo visit.
• Demonstrates knowledge of and implements BZC-wide and area emergency procedures as directed.
• Monitors and cleans public space(s), plants, and interpretives as assigned. Reports maintenance needs timely. Performs minor maintenance tasks as assigned.
• Monitors visitors to ensure animal and human safety and protection of park property.
• Studies specific reference materials about animals in assigned area. Reads other zoological and husbandry texts as assigned.
• Other related duties as assigned.

• High school graduate or GED equivalent required.
• Incumbent must possess an understanding of practical principles of animal behavior and ability to work with live animals safely.
• Must be a minimum of 18 years of age.
• Good interpersonal and communications skills. Must be able 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 be reliable.
• Must be able to learn and integrate information, knowledge, and direction quickly.
• English fluency at a professional working proficiency.
• Cultural proficiency; experience and/or ability to work and interact effectively with a diverse, multicultural audience.
• For Marine Mammal Animal Care Specialist positions, SCUBA Certification is required upon hire.
• Valid driver’s license required at time of hire. Illinois residents must possess a valid Illinois driver’s license or obtain one within 90 days of hire. Valid out-of-state driver’s license is required for out-of-state residents.

• Bachelor's degree or college coursework in relevant biological field or equivalent combination of training and experience preferred.
• Minimum six months animal care facility, farm, kennel, or equivalent animal experience preferred.
• Multilingual ability, Spanish fluency a plus.

This is a temporary position with rotating shifts, including weekends, holidays, and evenings.

Incumbent is expected to acquire general knowledge about Brookfield Zoo Chicago, gain an understanding of the mission, vision, and values, and become familiar with and follow policies and procedures, including emergency procedures. Incumbent is responsible for the care and proper use of equipment and property. Incumbent is responsible for the safety of guests, animals, employees, interns, volunteers, etc., as instructed. Must be alert to hazards and potential hazards and take action to remedy or report these timely as appropriate.

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