Applying for Animal Keeper at Lincoln Park Zoological Society? Bypass the ATS Black Hole.
Traditional job applications often get trapped in algorithmic filters. With HireMail, uncover verified hiring managers and founders at Lincoln Park Zoological Society, generate tailored AI outreach hooks, record personalized video pitches, and dispatch directly through your authenticated Gmail.
Decision-Maker Intel
Recruiters & founders
Video & Voice Pitch
Interactive player embed
AI Live ATS Scraper
Fresh, unposted roles
Animal Keeper
Carnivores
Location
Chicago, Illinois, United States
Work type
Onsite
Employment
Full Time
Experience
2-5 years
Compensation
$31 - $31 per hour
Posted
2d ago
Summary and responsibilities
Role overview
Summary
The Animal Keeper - Carnivores participates in all aspects of daily animal care and enclosure maintenance for species like African lions, snow leopards, and polar bears. This role involves cleaning, feeding, training, enrichment, record keeping, and monitoring animal health, working in a team-oriented environment to ensure high standards of animal welfare and guest experience.
General Summary Under general supervision, participates in daily animal care and enclosure maintenance within a team setting focused on progressive welfare standards. Species include African lions, snow leopards, red pandas, Canada lynx, harbor seals, grey seals, brown bears, and polar bear.
Essential Functions
Provide daily care: feeding, watering, securing, cleaning, observing, enrichment, training, and habitat maintenance.
Conduct daily operant conditioning sessions, formulate training plans, and track behavior logs.
Design, implement, and evaluate goal-based enrichment plans.
Track behavioral data using ZooMonitor and participate in welfare assessments.
Prepare and distribute prescribed diets; administer veterinary therapeutics under supervision.
Clean exhibits using specialized equipment and approved chemical agents; assist with minor repairs and landscaping.
Log daily records and health updates in the TRACKS system; report concerns promptly.
Safely handle, restrain, and transport animals under supervision; participate in animal escape drills.
Perform heavy manual tasks, including moving equipment, food supplies, and crated animals.
Support guest interactions, educational tours, conservation research, and intern or new keeper onboarding.
Additional Responsibilities
Conduct animal observation rounds during evening or overnight shifts if assigned.
Complete general operational tasks across various animal sections as directed.
Work variable schedules including holidays, weekends, and emergency shifts.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Knowledge of modern zoological husbandry, natural history, animal biology, and operant conditioning.
Awareness of occupational safety practices when working near dangerous or unpredictable wildlife.
Competence using cleaning agents, heavy tools, restraint equipment, and squeeze cages safely.
Strong written and verbal communication skills; proficiency in Microsoft Office and intranet systems.
Ability to make accurate behavioral observations, maintain records, and respond calmly during emergencies.
Requirements & Qualifications
Education: High school diploma or GED required. Bachelor degree in Biology, Zoology, Ecology, or related discipline preferred.
Experience: Prior animal care experience in an AZA-accredited facility or equivalent preferred; background in designated taxonomic groups, operant conditioning, and enrichment highly desirable.
Physical Demands: Must stand for long periods; climb, bend, crawl, and kneel; lift and move up to 50 lbs regularly; work in confined spaces and all weather conditions. Swimming ability may be required.
Sensory/Medical: No disabling allergies to animals or plants; unimpaired sensory and motor faculties necessary for safety; valid immune response against zoonotic exposure; proof of negative TB test.
Logistics: Valid driver license preferred; flexibility to work all shifts, weekends, and holidays.
Benefits Overview
Medical (Blue Cross Blue Shield), dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.
403(b) retirement savings plan with employer match; HSA contribution on select medical plans.
Free admission to participating Chicago cultural institutions.
Free on-site parking with direct park and beach access.
Discounts on zoo dining, retail, and event tickets.
Professional development via LPZooU courses and quarterly staff events.
Updated 2d ago
Candidate fit
Skills and qualifications
Additional skills
Experience
2-5 years
Certifications
How this role is positioned
Role classification
Job domains
Industries
Employment
Full Time
Contract duration
Permanent
Hiring type
Direct
Global hiring
Location specific
Offer details
Compensation and benefits
Compensation
$31 - $31 per hour
Benefits and perks
Location, schedule, and role shape
Work setup
Work conditions
Bandwidth profile
Context on the employer
Company snapshot
Company
Lincoln Park Zoological Society
Team size
Growing team
Location
Chicago, Illinois, United States
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.
Popular Domains
Explore opportunities across specialized functional areas.
Trending Industries
Discover roles in the world's most innovative sectors.
Animal Keeper
Chicago, Illinois, United States • Full Time