Careers

Manager of Volunteer Services

Under the supervision of the Director of Volunteer Services, responsible for overall management of on-grounds volunteers. Manage the two Assistant Managers of Volunteer Services.  Provide oversight of programs and individual effectiveness in creating memorable visitor experiences. Assist Director of Volunteer Services in general management of the department.

 

  • Manage volunteer office and provide resource support for Assistant Managers
  • Maintain clear and open communications with volunteer liaisons/host departments
  • Facilitate communication and interaction between volunteers and host departments
  • Monitor the effectiveness of on-grounds programming and make recommendations for improvement using input from Assistant Managers
  • Monitor the delivery of consistent messaging to volunteers
  • Provide coaching and feedback to Assistant Managers and volunteers on their performance in conjunction with host departments
  • Identify and address potential problems within the volunteer corps as they occur using input from Assistant Managers
  • Maintain consistent and fair treatment of all volunteers by creating and adhering to policies
  • Track numbers (i.e. volunteer hours, volunteer attendance at events, visitor interactions)
  • Participate in the volunteer recruitment process with the Director of Volunteer Services
  • Support volunteer onboarding, training, evaluation, appreciation and recognition processes
  • Communicate regularly with Guest Services and Education management to ensure program and volunteer effectiveness.
  • Other duties as assigned

 

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

 

  • Participate in ongoing evaluation of reporting staff
  • Use appropriate technology and resources to support educational activities
  • Participate in research committee, communication meetings, and other liaison capacities

 

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

 

  • Working knowledge of MS Word Office Suite
  • Working knowledge of internet, intranet, email, shared networks, and computers
  • Ability to respond quickly to changes in visitor and department needs
  • Ability to organize tasks and time to ensure timely completion of projects
  • Ability to balance administrative work/projects with attention to volunteers on-grounds
  • Ability to respectfully convey unfavorable messages to diverse individuals or groups
  • Strong communication skills, both verbal and written
  • Keenly interested in the interaction between visitors and subject matter
  • Understanding and belief in the zoo’s mission and informal and inquiry based learning
  • Committed to personal growth and open to suggestions regarding workshop practices and job performance
  • Ability to appeal to diverse types of people
  • Flexible

 

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

 

  • B.A. or B.S. required. Master’s degree preferred

 

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

 

  • Previous experience working with volunteers including recruitment, performance management and coaching

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

 

  • Ability to lift up to 30 pounds
  • Ability to work in all weather conditions
  • Ability to traverse zoo grounds in all weather conditions

 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

 

  • Work weekends, holidays and evenings as required

 

Endocrinology Laboratory Associate, Davee Center for Epidemiology and Endocrinology

This position will assist in the Davee Center’s activities in endocrine research.  Specifically, this person will assist with multiple laboratory projects and the development of an endocrine database

·         Provide support to existing projects by processing and analyzing samples in the laboratory.

·         Assist with laboratory operations and functions including maintenance of equipment, purchasing and stocking supplies and reagents.

·         Assist with students and staff who are working in the laboratory.

·         Assist with development of new endocrine research database.

·         Assist with communication of project goals and results to all relevant stakeholders.

 

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

 

·         Participate in other endocrinology projects as needed.

·         Provide general organizational assistance with all Davee Center activities.

·         Perform other duties as assigned by Dr. Rachel Santymire of the Davee Center.

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

 

·         Possess expertise in the specific areas covered in ‘essential job functions’;

·         Demonstrate a basic understanding of endocrinology;

·         Successful candidates must have experience in laboratory procedure;

·         Candidates must be able to work independently and prioritize tasks with attention to detail and accuracy;

·         Possess strong computer, organizational, and communication skills (written and spoken);

·         Demonstrate a commitment to wildlife conservation through management of wild and captive populations, and willingness to participate in the department’s team approach to conservation research projects. 

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

 

·         Bachelor’s degree in biology or closely related scientific discipline. 

 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

·         Must be able to work up to 10 weekends per year.

Communications and Public Relations Summer Internship (Unpaid)

Assist in the zoo’s internal and external communication projects, media relations opportunities, and events under direction of Public Relations Manager and Director. The candidate will gain a solid grounding in the public relations skills needed to understand and navigate the media world for a not-for-profit organization.

  • Interacting with both internal and external audiences via telephone and in person
  • Writing press releases, pitches, and calendar listings
  • Assisting staff with internal communication needs
  • Coordinating logistics for media interview opportunities and events
  • Producing background research on various zoo and aquarium or activist industry news
  • Creating media lists using Vocus software
  • Assisting in media reports and impression tracking
  • Aiding day-to-day operational needs of communications department including but not limited to social media, photo and video projects, and office administration tasks

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Proven experience either through coursework or previous internship in the fields of public relations, communications, and/or journalism
  • Superior writing skills; must demonstrate experience with mass media writing
  • Highly-motivated self-starter capable of independent work as well as team projects
  • Familiar with Microsoft Office Suite, knowledge of media monitoring services and/or video and photo editing software a plus
  • Experience with various social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest
  • Ability to meet deadlines and to be organized
  • Consistently demonstrate professional work ethic, attire, and demeanor.
  • Intern must be able to work flexible hours including some early mornings, nights, and weekends as necessary, and walk/stand for extended periods of time.

Candidate must be a sophomore, junior, or senior currently enrolled in college who is receiving academic credit for the internship. Minimum GPA is 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Time commitment will be three to five days a week; 15-20 hours weekly from July 1 through September 6. Set schedule will be determined based on intern availability and needs of the zoo.

Candidates must include two to three writing samples with their applications to be considered.

Capital and Programmatic Planning Manager

 

The Capital and Programmatic Planning Manager Manages and coordinates all aspects of design and operations for capital and programmatic planning. This position manages and coordinates the capital design process and implementation of specific programs and sub-projects within capital programs.  He/she  manages and a wide range of operational tasks and projects for Capital and Programmatic Planning, including but not limited to subproject development, supervision of interns and volunteers, administrative tasks and organizational tasks; and other matters that pertain to departmental operations.

·         Manages the capital design process and documents information flow between zoo and architectural design teams and within zoo design teams

·         Organizes and leads meetings related to capital design and/or other projects for which he/she is responsible

·         Coordinates implementation of capital design with Capital Construction Manager and as necessary ‘stands in’ for the Capital Construction Manager when the latter is away

·         Maintains and controls files for matters in progress and follows up to ensure timely completion; is responsible for establishing and maintaining official documents and records related to the zoo’s capital and programmatic projects.

·         Attends all capital design meetings

·         Takes, edits, and distributes meeting minutes; coordinates minute content with design team

·         Assists with the creation of the Capital and Programmatic Planning budget for the upcoming fiscal year

·         Monitors budgetary expenditures for accounts and projects administered by Senior Vice President of Capital and Programmatic Planning (e.g. prepares purchase orders, check requests, tracks and verifies expenses, tracks and files invoices, etc.)

·         Develops and implements projects related to visitor behavior, specific aspects of capital design and development, and development of new programs; analyzes data from these projects and prepares on these projects

·         Collects and prepares information for the Senior Vice President of Capital and Programmatic Planning for use in discussions and meetings with staff members and outside individuals.

·         Supervises clerical volunteers and interns; maintains and updates filing system for operations; coordinates and supervises clerical volunteer projects such as, but not limited to, surveys, mailings, photocopying, data entry, research and filing; when necessary, assists volunteers with these and other tasks.

·         Assists with general correspondence about programs, projects and meetings; drafts documents and reports; communicates information to the zoo’s website, professional publications, the internet, etc.

·         Purchases supplies, software, equipment as directed by Senior Vice President of Capital and Programmatic Planning

 

·         Performs other duties as assigned

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

 

·         Knowledge of SharePoint or similar content management systems preferred

·         Knowledge of architectural design and familiarity with architectural drawings preferred

·         Thorough knowledge of PCs, using word processing, spreadsheet and database software, esp. Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Power Point, Access)

·         Thorough knowledge of modern office practices, procedures and equipment

·         Thorough knowledge of the zoo’s mission and philosophy

·         Thorough knowledge of and ability to communicate and be understood in business English

·         Ability to perform a variety of administrative support assignments requiring considerable exercise of independent judgment and discretion                            

·         Ability to handle confidential matters with discretion

·         Ability to organize tasks and time to ensure timely completion of all projects

·         Ability to understand and carry out oral and written directions

·         Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, zoo visitors and general public

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

 

Bachelor’s degree.

 

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

 

Two years performing complex and responsible administrative support duties in a fast-paced office environment.  Experience with exhibit design, building design, architectural and construction practices desirable but not required.

 

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

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

 

Ability to sit for long periods of time.

Ability to work in open office environment.

Ability to traverse zoo grounds and inspect all areas in the zoo multiple times each day, to conduct tours, facilitate deliveries, escort vendors and coordinate meetings.

 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

 

Available to work special events that may occur outside of regular work schedule, including evenings, weekends or holidays, as assigned.

Women’s Board Internship Position

The Women’s Board internship will provide experience working with a volunteer fundraising board for Lincoln Park Zoo.  The intern will primarily assist with coordination of the annual Zoo Ball, the zoo’s largest fundraiser, which raises more than $1,000,000.  This internship is an ideal opportunity for gaining experience in event planning as well as fundraising and development.

 

Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo, a historic landmark founded in 1868, is dedicated to connecting people with nature by providing a free, family-oriented wildlife experience. A leader in conservation science both globally and locally, the zoo exemplifies the highest quality animal care and educational outreach. The not-for-profit zoo, managed by The Lincoln Park Zoological Society, is a member-supported organization and one of the nation’s only free, privately managed zoos.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

·         Assist the Women’s Board Coordinator with the daily management of the Women’s Board

·         Assist with the coordination of Zoo Ball fundraising efforts, which may include tasks related to Silent Auction, Raffle and night-of needs such as data entry and preparation of event materials

·         Participate in post-event wrap-up, which will include fulfillment of Silent Auction purchases and cataloging of event supplies

·         Assist with the Zoo Ball event registration process as needed

·         Attend event-related Women’s Board meetings and activities as needed

·         Assist with the coordination of invitation mailing and tracking responses

  • Assist with efforts to document, organize, and archive Zoo Ball processes and materials
  • Assist with efforts to document, organize, and archive Women’s Board processes and materials
  • Other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS:

Ideal candidate is working toward a Bachelor’s degree or is a recent college graduate with an interest in fundraising and/or event planning. Candidate should be well organized and be able to work under pressure as the event date nears.  Proficiency in MS Office applications is needed to succeed in this position. Experience with graphic design software is preferred.  Must be able to lift a minimum of 30 lbs. Please note: This position is an unpaid opportunity, but eligible for college credit.

 

COMMITMENT:

Candidate will ideally be available to begin a part-time schedule beginning in spring.  Full time hours begin during early summer.  MUST be available the entire week of July 8-12 with late night hours.  Zoo Ball will be held Friday, July 12, 2013.  Internship should end in early August.

 

TO APPLY:

Please submit a cover letter and resume outlining your qualifications and interest to:

hrjobs@lpzoo.org

 

Zoological Manager-Birds

Under general supervision, coordinates daily operations of a specific animal area including supervising keeper staff

·         Supervises a keeper staff that is responsible for all aspects of animal care including but not limited to all cleaning, feeding, watering, grooming ( i.e., domestic animals), observing, record keeping and maintaining exhibits. 

·         Supervises and maintains animal exhibits including use of chemical agents and special tools which are used to assure the health and safety of the animals as well as the proper presentation of the public.

·         Able to perform animal keeping duties extending to all animal husbandry and exhibit maintenance functions if necessary. Includes observing and reporting abnormal behavior, dispensation of drugs and treatments prescribed by authorized veterinarian. 

·         Manages area personnel including but not limited to work assignments, schedules and coordination of staffing levels.  Prepares and tracks timekeeping and other related reports.  Works with appropriate staff in preparation of performance evaluations of area personnel.  Implements and oversees training of area personnel. Participates in selection and interview process of candidates for temporary, animal keeper, assistant lead, and lead keeper.

·         Assists curator in development of annual operating plan and implements plan. Responsible for conforming to all zoo, local, state, federal, foreign, and international laws/guidelines regarding acquisition, maintenance, health, shipment and welfare of the collection. Ensures compliance with AZA accreditation standards and USDA AWA.

·         Advances mission of the zoo through participation in and coordinating conservation and education programs -- serving as departmental liaison with on-grounds education programs,, acting as a liaison to any ongoing in situ conservation initiatives, facilitating research involving the zoo collection, coordinating tours, preparing and presenting training programs for assigned staff and volunteers.

·         Makes recommendations regarding animal husbandry and management changes/modifications including diet changes, habitat redesign, operational efficiencies.

·         Oversees the general maintenance and ongoing furnishing, modifying and upgrading of existing or planned exhibits as appropriate.  Assists in exhibit design and renovations

·         Oversees capture, restraint and transport of animals.

·         Maintains detailed records on animal behavior, physical condition, reproduction, genealogy, facility condition and prepares comprehensive reports for departmental collection management staff, etc. Maintains animal inventory and initiates ARKS record entries.

·         May assume leadership role in executing the zoo's established animal escape procedure.  Responds to emergencies, takes control of the situation and sees it through the closure.

·         May be trained in the use of all the zoo's capture equipment including but not limited to firearms, dart gun, blow gun, and anesthetic agents.

·         Oversees adherence to departmental and institutional policies and procedures -- enforces and assists with updates of established animal handling and related safety guidelines. 

·         Works with supervisor to update all departmental documents including, but not limited to, collection plan and budget for the department.  With minimal oversight, manages department budget.

·         Participates in AZA programs (such as population management) and other related professional organizations

·         Manages the department’s enrichment and operant conditioning programs

 

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

·         May substitute for supervisor in his/her absence

·         May serve on the Safety Committee or other zoo committees

·         May attend regional/national or international conferences

·         May be called on to represent the zoo to external donor, community, scientific, and government groups

o   Other duties as assigned to maintain efficient and quality zoo operations.

 

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

·         Ability to remain motivated with a high degree of autonomy, while providing clear leadership direction to the department, the collection, and personnel

·         Strong interpersonal skills which foster a team approach to management

·         Comprehensive knowledge of animal behavior and natural history; common environmental enrichment and animal training practices; biology and related subjects

·         Comprehensive 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

·         Comprehensive knowledge of materials, methods, tools and equipment used in cleaning operations

·         Highly developed 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

·         Demonstrated good judgment

·         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 

 

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

A Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences or a closely related discipline is required.  An advanced degree in Biological Sciences or closely related discipline is preferred.

 

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Successful candidates likely to have 3- 5 years experience in routine animal husbandry as in a zoo, aquarium or closely related field; and at least 1-2 years experience in a supervisory position.

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

·         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

·         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

·         Risk exposure to fairly predictable and controllable hazards associated with wild animals and zoonotic diseases

 

 

 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

Available to work all necessary hours, including weekends, holidays, special events and all shifts.  Regularly scheduled rotational weekend on duty assignments. Available to attend training sessions and conferences as needed.  Non-infectious status for TB. Valid driver's license with a good driving record

 

Wildlife Disease Ecologist, Davee Center for Epidemiology and Endocrinology and Urban Wildlife Institute

Lincoln Park Zoo is offering a scientific research position in Wildlife Disease Ecology as part of the Davee Center for Epidemiology and Endocrinology and Urban Wildlife Institute. The primary focus is on applied research that investigates disease ecology and the impact of disease on wildlife conservation.  Tasks include participating in all aspects of ongoing research including designing studies, collecting data and samples, analyzing data, writing grants, writing manuscripts for publication and preparing oral or poster presentations for staff and scientific conferences. 

 

This position will support our current national and international wildlife disease research projects and ultimately design and implement new wildlife disease research projects at the local, national and international level.  Successful applicant will collaborate with the Davee Center Endocrinologist and Epidemiologist, the Urban Wildlife Institute, and with other centers within the Conservation and Science Department at Lincoln Park Zoo.    

 

This position is for 2 years, subject to extension after review, and will be filled as soon as possible.

·         Develop, coordinate and manage new wildlife disease projects in the field and within the zoo;

·         Participate in ongoing field research and supervise staff in the field to complete projects

·         Provide expertise in wildlife disease ecology, conservation biology and statistical study design to

support existing Lincoln Park Zoo and Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) disease surveillance and monitoring programs,

·         Write and manage grants and other funding sources;

·         Disseminate results at zoological and scientific professional conferences and in lay and peer-reviewed literature as appropriate.

 

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

 

·         International and domestic travel for conferences and field projects;

·         Attend Lincoln Park Zoo, Davee Center, and/or UWI foundation-related activities as necessary;

·         Perform other duties as assigned by the directors of the Davee Center and the Urban Wildlife Institute.

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

 

·         Successful candidates must have a strong background in experimental design, and must have demonstrated ability to analyze and communicate the results of research and applied programs in disease ecology;

·         Demonstrate a basic understanding of ecology, epidemiology and endocrinology for collaborative purposes (active research in these disciplines is preferred);

·         Possess experience with field work including handling of live animals and sampling for disease analysis;

·         Possess grant writing and management skills;

·         Experience in developing ecological models to address questions about disease, species conservation and management is required. 

·         Possess strong interpersonal, computer, organizational (project management) and communication skills (written and spoken);

·         Demonstrate a commitment to wildlife conservation through management of wild and captive populations, and willingness to participate in the department’s team approach to conservation research projects;

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

 

·         PhD in ecology, epidemiology, statistics or a related discipline is preferred.  An MS or MPh and field research experience may be considered.

·         Some field research experience is preferred, particularly experience handling wild animals for sample collection. 

 

Send resume, copies of college transcripts and letter of interest to:

                                                Human Resources Department

                                                hrjobs@lpzoo.org

Sales Assistant

Act as clearing house for the sales office: provide initial client contact for daytime and evening rentals. 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Handle all inquiries into the sales office and direct them appropriately. Coordinate with various zoo departments on specific event arrangements. Provide administrative support to the department. Oversee and update insurance for all vendors in the rental program. Process payments and commissions. Provide updated financial and booking reports on a regular basis. Provide calendar updates to Guest Services each month.

 

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Performs other duties as assigned (i.e. working events). Performs site inspections under special circumstances. Assist with vendor contracts. Ensure supervisor is fully advised on a timely basis so that he/she can effectively execute his/her responsibilities.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Ability to type 45 words per minute. Proficient with word processing, event software and spreadsheet management.  Possess phone etiquette skills. Very pleasant demeanor and exceptional communication skills.  Organized and detail oriented, able to handle many projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.

 

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
Bachelor’s degree preferred

 

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
Strong interpersonal communication skills required for interface with clients, staff and vendors. Knowledge of Chicago caterers preferred.

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

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Ability to work in all weather conditions.  No allergy to plants or animals. Ability to remain on feet for long periods of time at event sites.   Ability to traverse zoo grounds.

 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Available to work an extended schedule, including weekends, early mornings, evenings and holidays according to the demands of the role and the tasks.