The Chicago Zoological Society is one of the few zoological organizations in the world with professional nutritionists on staff. Understanding nutritional status is vital to efforts to successfully conserve and propagate animal populations, in the wild and in captivity. The ultimate goal of our nutrition program is to help provide nutritional diets to keep zoo animals around the world healthy. Zoo Nutrition Services staff serve as members of the American Zoo and Aquarium Association Nutritional Advisory Group and work closely with the Comparative Nutritionist Society (CNS). Through their networking activities, research efforts, and information sharing, Zoo Nutrition Services helps zoos and aquariums around the world ensure the best health of the animals in their care.

As one of the top zoos, Seasonal Keepers in Zoo Nutrition Services receive valuable hands-on experience by assisting in the preparation of various food/diets/supplements in accordance with nutrition services protocols while also learning and completing diet change forms, labels, and protocols. You will demonstrate your understanding of principles of nutrition, food science/service and warehousing while accurately preparing and delivering food and supplies to animal buildings and exhibits. Following nutrition services sanitation and USDA guidelines, you will thoroughly clean the equipment and commissary building. While this position has very little contact with animals, your genuine interest in animals and passion for their welfare is an important characteristic. Your friendly demeanor, good interpersonal skills and outstanding communication skills will contribute to creating an extraordinary guest experience as Seasonal Keepers may interact with guests facilitating their enjoyment of animals and their zoo visit.

As Brookfield Zoo is open 365 days a year, Seasonal Keeper positions require the ability to work rotating shifts including weekends, holidays and evenings. This position also requires that you must be at least 18 years of age and have a valid driver's license. This is a temporary (seasonal) position beginning in April 2023. The union hourly wage for this position is $15.00 per hour.

High school diploma or GED equivalent required. Bachelor's degree or college coursework in relevant biological field or equivalent combination of training and experience preferred.

Must possess an understanding of practical principles of nutrition, food science/service, cafeteria, and warehousing. Nutrition, food science/service, warehousing, and cafeteria experience helpful. Knowledge of mechanized equipment and machinery helpful. Good interpersonal and communications skills. The ability to interact in a courteous and professional manner required. Good decision-making skills. Must be alert and make sound, independent judgments. Must be capable of dealing with emergencies calmly and efficiently. Must be reliable.

Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language fluently. Experience and/or ability to work and interact effectively with a diverse, multicultural audience. Multilingual ability and Spanish fluency a plus

The Chicago Zoological Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Workplace safety is the Chicago Zoological Society’s top priority. We require all employees to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 unless they request and receive a religious or medical exemption. New hires must have at least received their first vaccine dose prior to their start date. (Updated 9/16/22)

Seasonal Keeper positions require the ability to work rotating shifts including weekends, holidays and evenings.

Chicago Zoological Society-Brookfield Zoo

60513

Nutrition Services

Animal Health and Welfare

Union