Careers

Annual Giving Coordinator

Integral member of Annual Giving and Membership teams.  Manage various revenue-generating efforts with direct revenue responsibility of approximately $120,000; team responsibility of more than $1.5 million.  Coordinate monthly Annual Fund renewal process, from developing recipient lists and leading review meetings to producing solicitation materials.  Coordinate semi-annual Annual Fund direct mail campaigns.  Manage ADOPT, School ADOPT and Wish List programs for Lincoln Park Zoo, including all revenue, expense and marketing.  Assist with Annual Fund, Membership and ADOPT customer service inquiries and telephone donations.

·         Manage monthly Annual Fund renewal appeal efforts.  Produce list of solicitees and giving history, develop initial ask amounts for certain donors and lead review meeting among Development Department staff.  Produce and mail solicitation materials.

·         Collaborating with other Lincoln Park Zoo staff groups, including Animal Care and Communications, lead growth of monthly Wish Lists.  Oversee list theme and copy development, online presentation and sales tracking. Post items to website and update as needed.  Develop promotional campaigns and marketing strategies to increase exposure and performance of Wish List.

·         Plan and execute ADOPT an Animal and School ADOPT efforts, including all short and long-term program strategy development, revenue and expense planning, promotion and advertising. Maintain and update ADOPT materials including fact sheets, photos and premiums.  Ably execute Raiser’s Edge queries, exports and reporting functions.  Conduct analyses based on this information.

·         Coordinate semi-annual Annual Fund direct mail appeals, including segmentation of prospect lists, copy development, collaboration with internal and external resources.

·         Manage all aspects of annual Board Friends campaign, including direct communication with members of the Board of Trustees, development of solicitation strategies, copy development, implementation, tracking and reporting.

·         Assist as necessary with lapsed donor and other mailings, including Raiser’s Edge segmentation and mail merges.

·         Make routine acknowledgement phone calls to thank Annual Fund donors.

·         Responsible for stewarding a small pool of entry-level donors.

·         Serve as contact for incoming Annual Fund, Membership, Wish List & ADOPT inquiries, and process donations received over the phone.

·         Assist in coordination of special events and member activities.

·         Continually seek to improve processes and build upon the Annual Fund and Membership programs, taking on new projects as appropriate and/or as assigned.

 

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES     

·         Strong project management skills, with proven history of careful organization, acute attention to detail, and successful multi-tasking with multiple concurrent long-range projects.

·         Strong proficiency with Raiser’s Edge software and all aspects of the Microsoft Office Suite, especially word processing (including mail merge) and spreadsheet software.

·         Familiarity with Adobe design software and basic web functionality.

·         Excellent oral and written communication skills with experience preparing business correspondence.

·         Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with members, donors, supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, zoo visitors and general public in person and over the phone. 

·         Bi or multi-lingual a plus.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college preferred. 

 

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Prefer minimum two years related experience

 

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

·         Available to work Development and Membership Department special events and activities as required.  Events normally take place during evening, weekend or early morning hours.

·         Minimum physical labor required for transporting items on-grounds.

 
Database Systems and Records Coordinator

Extract and manipulate data for reporting and support end-users with existing Raiser’s Edge database. Automate existing manual reporting processes, and provide fast turnaround of ad-hoc reports to advance the fundraising mission of Lincoln Park Zoo. Provide support for maintaining data integrity and gift processing. Successful candidates should show the ability to work well independently and as part of a team, demonstrate attention to detail and excellent time management skills.

  • Experience developing and supporting reporting solutions utilizing
    • VBA, SQL queries, Access, Excel, Crystal Reports
  • Comprehensive working knowledge of Raiser's Edge, SQL Server, or other relational database systems. 
  • Proficiency writing queries, forms and reports.
  • Ability to translate end users’ needs into effective reporting solutions.
  • Ability to deliver reporting-related training in layman terms.
  • Proven ability to analyze data and identify recurring patterns and report discrepancies.
  • Familiarity with not-for-profit fundraising a plus.   

 

 

ESSENTIAL JOB JUNCTIONS

  • Design, enhance, and maintain reports for Development Department using VBA, MS Access, Excel, Crystal Reports, and/or SQL.
  • Create ad-hoc queries and reports to support organizational needs.
  • Automate manual business processes.
  • Troubleshoot data issues and proactively identify process issues and suggest solutions.
  • Create and perform regular data validity checks to ensure that all data is accurate, complete and captured in a consistent manner.
  • Maintain documentation of Raiser’s Edge policies, procedures, and processes to ensure that staff uses Raiser’s Edge consistently and correctly.
  • Develop and maintain a comprehensive understanding of gift processing operations in order to provide support and backup when needed.
  • Conduct regular reconciliations for all gifts with the zoo’s Accounting department.
  • Perform regular Raiser’s Edge database maintenance, copy backups and assist end users with installation, upgrades and patches.
  • Other duties as assigned, including special events.

EDUCATION

High school diploma required, BA/BS preferred.

 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Available to work special events that may occur outside of regular work schedule, as assigned. ​

 

TO APPLY

To apply for this position, please send a cover letter, resume and a completed application for employment (available for download at http://www.lpzoo.org/careers) via e-mail it to hrjobs@lpzoo.org.
Lincoln Park Zoo is an equal opportunity employer.
 
Institutional Grants Manager

The Grants Manager is responsible for managing all foundation and government giving activities, including annual giving, restricted giving and capital projects.  Responsibilities include cultivation and stewardship of prospects and donors, oversight of the solicitation and cultivation calendar.  Set targets, measure and report on progress, and edit proposals and reports. 

·         Work with grant writer to  maintain proactive schedule of proposal and report preparation and other activities necessary to fully engage and seek funds from Chicago’s philanthropic community of private, family, and corporate foundations, and governmental funding sources as well as potential regional, state and national funding sources.

·         Serve as the primary liaison with the Foundation community.  In conjunction with the capital campaign staff and grant writer, prepare proposals and produce materials to generate revenue for capital, endowment and other major gifts.

·         Work closely with Accounting and program staff to monitor budgets for reports.

·         Work closely with  key zoo personnel to understand the institution’s funding needs and translate those objectives into a carefully managed, comprehensive restricted grant funding program.

·         Identify and investigate government funding sources for capital, research and programmatic needs. Prepare Federal and state government grant proposals and reports.

·         Plan and execute cultivation tours and events for foundation donors and prospects.  Assist in identification of new prospects. 

·         Provide direct supervision of the zoo’s grant writer, including editing proposals and other fundraising documents created to secure support from foundations and government entities.

·         Maintain records in Raiser’s Edge, with regard to foundation and government agencies. 

 

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Other duties as assigned, including special events.

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

·         Knowledge of the zoo’s mission and philosophy

·         Understanding of philanthropy and stewardship of foundation and government donors

·         Strong written and oral communications skills, including editing and proofreading skills

·         Superb attention to detail; organizational and project management skills

·         Well-developed interpersonal skills; ability to interact courteously and respectfully; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with donors, volunteers, zoo visitors, general public and colleagues

·         Ability to coordinate high level of activity in fast-paced office, under a variety of conditions and deadlines

·         Knowledge of Microsoft Office required.  Knowledge of Raiser’s Edge or database management preferred. Familiarity with Fastlane and Grants.gov a plus.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

Undergraduate degree in journalism, English, communications or related field

 

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

At least three to five years in development, communications, grant writing or related field 

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

·         Ability to work at computer and on phone for long periods

·         Ability to navigate zoo grounds and buildings in all weather conditions

·         Ability to drive electric cart

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Available to work an extended schedule, including weekends, early mornings, evenings and holidays according to demands of the role and tasks
Zoological Manager-Primate

Under general supervision, coordinates daily operations of the Regenstein Center of African Apes and the Helen Brach Primate House,  including supervising keeper staff, and in collaboration with the staff of the Lester E. Fisher Center for the Study and Conservation of African Apes.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

·         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

·         Organizes and facilitates all approved research projects with keeper staff and in collaboration with the research staff.

 

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 non-human primate husbandry and management (preferably with Old World and New World Monkeys, Prosimians, and mixed-species exhibits) in a zoo, or closely related field; at least 1-2 years experience in a supervisory position; and proficiencies in operant conditioning training using positive reinforcement, primate enrichment strategies, and applied behavioral research.

 

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

 

 

 
Nature Boardwalk Intern

The Nature Boardwalk intern will assist the Urban Wildlife Institute in monitoring wildlife and environmental changes at Nature Boardwalk.   The intern will gain valuable skills such as identifying birds and conducting visual surveys, use of radio telemetry equipment, and techniques for monitoring changes in water quality. In addition to scientific monitoring, the intern will engage with guests and seek to increase awareness and understanding of their activities and the significance of scientific monitoring for wildlife and wild places.  Through meaningful guest interactions, the intern(s) will gain experience communicating the role of environmental research and science by interacting with people of various ages, background and knowledge. They will seek to help guests better understand the role of research in their daily lives.  The position requires a great deal of walking, being outdoors, and occasional physical labor.  This is a seasonal position, working four days per week, beginning in March and continuing through the end of September.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

 

·         Able to interact positively and energetically in an informal learning environment;

·         Communicate messages clearly to visitors in small groups or in one-on-one interactions;

·         Serve as a credible source of information about wildlife monitoring and general ecosystem functions pertaining to Nature Boardwalk;

·         Conduct wildlife surveillance. Examples included performing bird surveys, tracking turtles using radio telemetry equipment, and use of motion triggered wildlife cameras;

·         Perform water quality testing;

·         Maintain databases and perform data entry.

 

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

 

·         Ideal candidate is an outgoing individual who enjoys interacting with the public, sharing information with enthusiasm and has a passion for education and conservation;

·         Maintains a positive and flexible approach to daily responsibility. Works well in a team environment as well as independently;

·         Assists staff with other ongoing projects;

·         Limited Chicagoland travel for field projects;

·         Attends Lincoln Park Zoo and/or Urban Wildlife Institute-related activities as necessary;

·         Performs other duties as assigned.


 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

 

·         Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Word and Excel;

·         Willingness to work in hot weather outdoors;

·         Willingness to work early mornings as necessary;

·         Flexibility regarding weather, meetings, and situations as they arise;

·         Basic knowledge of local fauna or willingness to learn;

·         Must be able to lift at least 25 lbs.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

 

·         B.S. (in progress or completed) in biology, ecology, or related field.

 

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

 

·         Previous experience working with wildlife and/or conducting scientific research;

·         Preference for those that:

  • Have experience serving as a role model or educator in some capacity.
  • Have animal handling experience.
  • Have conducted or assisted with wildlife ecological studies, including use of remote-triggered cameras, radio-telemetry equipment, and avian capture equipment such as mist nets.
  • Are proficient with Access, a Microsoft Office product.
  • Possess knowledge of Illinois fauna, particularly birds.
  • Possess a valid driver’s license.

 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

 

·         Must be able to work weekends.