Temporary Hiring List – Hamill Family Play Zoo and Wild Encounters

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Since opening in 1934, Brookfield Zoo Chicago has had an international reputation for taking a cutting-edge role in animal care and conservation of the natural world. Brookfield Zoo Chicago is an active partner in wildlife protection programs around the world, including the Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, the world’s longest-running study of bottlenose dolphins. We have pioneered the field of conservation psychology, the study of how people connect with animals and nature. We are able to reach so many audiences each year, including 2 million zoo guests engaged by unique exhibits and programs; some 250,000 schoolchildren, campers, and families who participate in award-winning science education programs; nearly 24,000 teachers who take part in our professional development workshops; and, diverse communities across Chicagoland. Brookfield Zoo Chicago is known throughout the world as a leader in animal welfare and conservation, this venerable institution also serves as a potent economic engine, top tourism attraction, and award-winning educational institution.


Submit your on-line application for this opportunity no later than September 21, 2025!

At just over three acres, Hamill Family Wild Encounters is geared toward guests of all ages, and features unforgettable hands-on experiences that include opportunities to touch and feed animals, including parakeets and goats. You'll also get to see llamas, wallabies, and reindeer, plus enjoy Zoo Chats and Animal Ambassador appearances throughout the summer.
Brookfield Zoo Chicago is currently soliciting on-line applications from qualified and experienced animal care professionals for placement on our hiring list for temporary (aide) positions. The list will be used to select candidates for temporary full-time animal care specialist aide positions which arise due to employee absences, leaves, and position vacancies, between 12/1/25 and 5/31/26. These temporary assignments may range from several days or weeks to several months, or more, depending on the particular assignment. Placement on the temporary hiring list does not guarantee employment.

If offered a role, this is a full-time, temporary, union aide position, primarily in our Hamill Family Play Zoo and Wild Encounters department, with a starting pay rate of $27.17 per hour and requires a union initiation fee upon hire, along with monthly union dues/fees. The Benefits Summary Information (for this position, please refer to the union temporary aide employees section) can be found at:
https://www.brookfieldzoo.org/custom.czs/files/5d/5dfac8db-5b35-45d1-8e3c-b37c698b6d43.pdf

This position contributes to the success of Brookfield Zoo Chicago (“BZC”) by, under close supervision, providing general care for animals and performing related work of maintaining buildings, grounds, and interpretives in assigned area. Inform, assist, and direct guests as necessary.

Primary job duties and responsibilities:
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions of the position.
1. * Prepare and distribute food as directed.
2. * Observe assigned animals closely, routinely, and objectively report to supervisor on their behavior, health, and welfare. Keep animal records as assigned.
3. * Observe condition of assigned area(s), animal enclosures, and equipment. Monitor and clean public space(s), plants, and interpretives as assigned. Report maintenance needs. Perform minor maintenance as assigned.
4. * Clean animal enclosures, pools, and service areas as assigned.
5. * Develop proficiency in routines of assigned areas and specialized procedures as directed.
6. * Monitor guests to ensure animal and human safety and protection of property.
7. * Communicate with and assist guests. Take initiative to facilitate guests’ appreciation of animals and enjoyment of their zoo visit.
8. *Demonstrate knowledge of and implement BZC-wide and area emergency procedures as directed.
9. * Study specific reference materials about animals in assigned area. Read other zoological and husbandry texts as assigned.
10. Other related duties as assigned.
* Denotes Essential Job Function(s)

Position requirements and specifications:
• High school graduate or GED equivalent required.
• Animal care facility, farm or kennel, or other equivalent animal experience required.
• Incumbent must possess an understanding of practical principles of animal behavior and ability to work with live animals safely.
• Good interpersonal skills. The ability to interact in a courteous and professional manner.
• Must be capable of dealing with emergencies calmly and efficiently.
• Must learn and integrate information, knowledge, and direction quickly.
• Good decision-making skills. Must be a