Dairy Barn Attendant-Farm-in-the-Zoo

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.

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.  For Wildlife. For All.

GENERAL SUMMARY:

Works under general supervision in the dairy barn at the Farm in the Zoo, participates in aspects of daily animal care for domestic livestock. Responsible for meeting quality standards for area and supervising guests during animal interactions. This position works in a team atmosphere that strives to continuously provide progressive, high standards of care to ensure animal health, safety, and well-being.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Assists in maintaining dairy barn, including basic husbandry, maintenance and cleaning.
• Interacts with and supervises guests during Groom the Goat program in free contact area.
• Cleans and maintains animal exhibits, cows and goats, including use of chemical agents and special tools which are used to ensure the health and safety of the animals
• Works closely with animal keepers and volunteers to ensure safety of animals and guests.
• Alerts keepers of behavioral changes noticed by self or guests.
• Distributes prescribed animal diets as determined by senior animal management staff
• Under supervision, administers therapeutics as prescribed by the veterinarian
• Prepares detailed written daily reports and completes all assigned record keeping in TRACKS record keeping system
• Adheres to established animal handling and related safety guidelines
• Performs various tasks and other duties as assigned.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

• May use cart to move dumpsters or supplies
• May use vehicle for zoo pick-ups and deliveries.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

• Ability to work in a contact animal situation.
• Knowledge of current industry standard husbandry practices and methods
• Basic 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
• Ability to keep comprehensive and accurate records according to established procedures
• Strong oral and written communications skills
• Ability to both give and follow oral and written directions effectively
• Ability to receive constructive feedback
• Ability to work with animal handling tools, squeeze cages, chemicals and/or medications
• Ability to interact courteously, respectfully and productively with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, zoo visitors, and general public, including children
• Knowledge of basic computer programs/software (Word, Excel, and Internet/Intranet navigation)

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:

• High School degree (or equivalent)

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• Experience in a contact animal situation preferred.  Experience working with children preferred.

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

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Physical strength, including ability to frequently move up to fifty (50) pounds
• 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, crawling
• Ability to wear requisite Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) that may include rubber/latex gloves, steel-toed boots/shoes, face shields, eye goggles
• No allergy to plants or animals that may interfere with the ability to work
• Ability to maintain immune response to exposure to infectious and parasitic diseases
• Ability to work in all weather conditions

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Available to work special events that may occur outside of regular work schedule as assigned.
• No impairment of sight, smell, hearing, touch balance and ability of movement that might interfere with ability to work
• Valid driver’s license with good driving record is preferable.
• Proof of negative TB test

OUR PROMISE:

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.  For Wildlife. For All.

LINCOLN PARK ZOO BENEFITS:

• 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!

Salary: $16.60/hr