Animal Keeper

Lincoln Park Zoo inspires communities to create environments where wildlife will thrive in our urbanizing world. The zoo is a leader in local and global conservation, animal care and welfare, learning, and science. A historic Chicago landmark founded in 1868, the not-for-profit Lincoln Park Zoo, is a privately-managed, member-supported organization and is free and open 365 days a year. Visit us at lpzoo.org

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

• Provides daily care to animals and their enclosures. Including, but not limited to cleaning, feeding, watering, securing, grooming (i.e., domestic animals), observing, animal training and enrichment, record keeping and maintaining exhibits
• Tasks may include heavy manual and skilled work such as moving and manipulating heavy food items, hoses, bales of hay, equipment and crated animals
• Advances zoo mission through participation in conservation programs - assists in development and delivery of educational programs formally through Education Department, and informally through interaction with zoo guests; conducts tours for guests, staffs and volunteers; may participate in research projects
• Cleans and maintains animal exhibits including use of chemical agents and special tools which are used to ensure the health and safety of the animals as well as the proper presentation to the public
• Under supervision, maintains excellence in exhibit display including furnishing, modifying and performing minor repairs and upkeep as appropriate
• Prepares and distributes animal diets as determined by senior animal management staff. Humanely dispatches live feed items
• Under supervision, administers therapeutics as prescribed by the veterinarian
• Monitors health of animals on a daily basis by observing eating habits, general activity, behavior and appearance, interaction with others, etc. Reports abnormal behavior and problems to area supervisor without delay. Prepares detailed written daily reports for supervisor
• Makes recommendations regarding diet change, habitat redesign and related matters and takes steps to accomplish same
• Monitors the condition of habitats, equipment and facilities and initiates work orders requests and emergency repairs as needed
• Maintains clean and safe work environment
• Maintains an inventory of equipment and supplies
• Adheres to established animal handling and related safety guidelines. Participates in established animal escape drills and procedures. Under supervision, captures, restrains, and transports animals

• May be assigned jobs that require coordination with other zoo departments
• Orients and trains staff assigned to work locations

• Keepers assigned to evening or night shift will devote most of their time to observing selected zoo animals for possible problems or births, administering prescribed medications and night feedings and milking, delivering feed to animal areas, keeping records and assisting with zoo security
• May have direct responsibility for a specialized aspect of assigned animal collection.
• Other duties as assigned to maintain efficient and quality zoo operations
• Work necessary hours as requested including all shifts, weekends, holidays, and special events

• Knowledge of general husbandry practices and methods
• Knowledge of animal behavior and natural history; common environmental enrichment and animal training practices; biology and related subjects
• Knowledge of animal behavior as an indication of general health, reproductive potential and well being
• Knowledge of occupational hazards involved and the safe work practices to employ while in proximity of potentially dangerous animals
• Knowledge of materials, methods, tools and equipment used in cleaning operations
• Skill in making thorough observations and documenting observations
• Ability to keep comprehensive and accurate records according to established procedures
• Ability to both give and follow oral and written directions effectively
• Ability to organize tasks and time to ensure timely completion of all projects
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Ability to work in any of the assigned animal areas fulfilling all requirements of the title
• Ability to exercise sound judgment in analyzing animal behavior problems or emergency situations, and to respond with appropriate action
• Ability to work with and be comfortable around potentially dangerous and unpredictable animal species
• Ability to work with potentially dangerous machinery, restraint devices and toxic chemicals and/or drugs
• Ability to interact courteously, respectfully and productively with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, zoo visitors and general public

• Graduation from a high school or the equivalent (GED) is required.
• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a degree in Biological Sciences (i.e. Biology, Zoology, and Ecology) or a closely related discipline is preferred.

• Previous experience performing animal care activities in a zoo, aquarium or like institution is highly desirable.
• Experience in designated taxonomic area preferred.

Note: A comparable combination of education, experience or training that would provide the level of knowledge, skills, and ability required may qualify an individual.

• Ability to remain on feet for long periods of time
• Ability to regularly perform a variety of physical tasks that include but are not limited to climbing, bending, stooping, kneeling, twisting, reaching, and crawling
• Physical strength, including ability to frequently move up to fifty (50) pounds
• Ability to work in small, confined spaces
• Ability to work in all weather conditions
• Ability to wear requisite Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) that may include rubber/latex gloves, steel-toed boots/shoes, face shields, eye goggles
• No allergy related to plants or animals that may interfere with the ability to work
• No impairment of sight, smell, hearing, touch balance and ability of movement that might interfere with ability to work
• Ability to maintain immune response to exposure to infectious and parasitic diseases

• Available to work all necessary hours, including weekends, holidays, special events and all shifts.
• Available to attend training sessions and conferences as needed.
• A valid driver’s license with a good driving record is preferred

Lincoln Park Zoo is committed to an environment that is inclusive and welcoming. We celebrate the diverse qualities, perspectives, values, and experiences of all people. Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) and others who identify as nonwhite, people with disabilities, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and those with lived experience with racism and/or misogynoir are encouraged to apply. For Wildlife. For All.

In addition to such standard benefits as medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverages, and a 403(b) savings plan with an institutional match, benefits of working at the zoo include:

• Free admission to many other Chicago cultural institutions
• Free on-site parking anytime with access to Lincoln Park, Lakeshore Trail, and North Avenue Beach
• Discounts on event tickets (free admission to select events), attractions, dining, and retail at the zoo
• Quarterly staff mingle events and “LPZooU” training and educational sessions about the zoo, wildlife, ecology, and related subjects
• Company contribution to Health Savings Account (Medical PPO only)
• A working environment with green spaces and regularly available visits with wildlife