Careers

Wildlife Disease Ecology Intern

Assist with researching literature, field observations and data collection, data entry and analysis, and writing summary reports. A primary responsibility will be research and data entry for the wildlife disease ecological projects. Schedule is flexible up to 35 hours per week, Monday through Friday.  Position is for 12 months.

·         Research literature and websites for relevant wildlife disease topics

·         Collect data on species biology, habitat, and logistical variables

·         Assist with field observations

·         Enter data and summarize results

·         Assist with database maintenance

·         Work independently to follow work plans as proscribed by supervisor(s)

Synthesize data and other information from a wide range of sources and formats

·         Excellent computer skills; proficiency in the use of computers, internet research, Microsoft software and abilities to learn new software packages in a short time

·         Strong communication and interpersonal skills

·         Ability to represent Lincoln Park Zoo in a professional manner at all times

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

·         Bachelor’s degree in the sciences received since April 2010

·         Must be available for occasional work on weekends
Seasonal Education Volunteer Coordinator

The Education Volunteer Coordinator is responsible for overseeing the volunteer program at Lincoln Park Zoo’s Farm in the Zoo Presented by John Deere. This position works closely with the volunteer services and animal care departments to ensure that all FITZ Volunteers are adequately trained and supported in educational programs and positive guest interactions.  Responsibilities include training, scheduling, communication and coordination of volunteers, as well as contributing to the education department’s strategic goals by developing programs and assisting with overall planning efforts.

·         Coordinate daily activities and schedules for seasonal volunteers stationed around the Farm in the Zoo.

·         Along with manager, train seasonal volunteers, new and returning, on developed programs for Farm in the Zoo.

·         Research and develop new educational programs that volunteers and/or seasonal staff can deliver to diverse zoo audiences and groups.

·         Provide ongoing support and training for Volunteers.

·         Communicate with Volunteer Services and Animal Care departments to ensure volunteers and staff are supporting each other effectively.

·         Collaborate with the Manager and Coordinators of Guest Engagement on overall program planning and strategic goals.

·         Professionally deliver accurate information concerning the zoo’s animal collection, research, and conservation messages.

·         Perform various tasks and other duties as assigned.

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

·         Ability to coordinate complex daily activities, schedules, details and logistics. 

·         Proven ability to deliver engaging programs in a non-formal education setting.

·         Excellent oral and written communication skills.

·         Prior experience working with volunteers.

·         Knowledge base in animal husbandry and biology preferred.

·         Knowledge base in interpreting at the early childhood level.

·         Proven program development skills and experience with evaluation techniques.

·         Flexible, problem-solving approach to daily responsibilities.

·         Courteous and respectful with team members, volunteers, zoo visitors and general public.

·         Ability to work independently with strong attention to detail.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

·         Bachelors degree in biology, zoology, education, communications  or similar required. 

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

·         Capable of standing for long periods of time and working in a variety of weather conditions, including long periods of time in the sun.

·         Able to regularly walk at least one mile during a single shift and move equipment on a rolling cart up to 100 pounds.

 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

·         Proven experience working with multi-aged groups with an interactive non-lecture approach to teaching/interpreting.

·         Experience in and passion for making science and nature relevant and accessible to multiple audiences.

·         Comfortable with toddlers and toddler-aged appropriate activities.

·         Exhibits a passion for conservation education and the zoo’s mission.

·         Available to work weekdays, weekends and evenings as needed throughout the year.
Veterinary Hospital Support Intern (unpaid)

Provide administrative and research support to the departmental (veterinary, nutrition, pest control) operations and staff, especially Director of Veterinary Services, clinical veterinarians, and veterinary residents.  Primary focus of medical record searches, literature management, maintenance of residency course schedule and documentation, including interviews, and providing administrative support to staff veterinarians directly. This position does not involve direct animal care duties or routine veterinary job shadowing.

·         Records

o     Completes medical record searches under indirect supervision of clinical veterinarians.

o     Prepares preshipment medical files for review and transfer.

o     Maintains and organizes medical library.

o     Maintain other department-related records.

·         Phone

o     Performs assigned call back duties and phone research.

·         Correspondence

o     Distributes correspondence for departmental staff.

o     Maintains filing and mail flow for clinical veterinarians.

·         Computer

o     Literature searches and article acquisition for departmental publications and presentations.

o     Figure and graphics development and acquisition for departmental publications and presentations.

o     Maintains hospital procedures manual with approved updates.

o     Archives clinical and departmental images (i.e., radiographs) and projects.

o     Develops website postings with clinical veterinarians and nutrition manager and maintains submission of said postings to designated Graphics interface, includes monitoring website for accurate rotation of postings. 

  • Animal Health Council - organizes and arranges functions with Development and coordinates on-site consultant participation.
  • Veterinary and Nutrition Center department functions and meetings – schedules, organizes, arranges materials.
  • Veterinary Preceptorship coordination – scheduling orientation, enrollment, and introduction.
  • Veterinary Residency coordination – schedules, organizes, arranges materials, including residency courses,journal reviews and  interviews.
    • Preparation of journal citations for journal club review.

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES

  • Legible handwriting
  • Typing (minimum 45 wpm) and data entry skills
  • Ability to record and deliver information, to explain procedures, to follow oral and written instructions, and otherwise communicate effectively and efficiently with co-workers and supervisor
  • Considerable knowledge of computer programs of basic word processing, spreadsheets, and internet database access
  • Very good knowledge of the zoo’s mission and philosophy
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment in emergency situations and to respond with appropriate action
  • Excellent management of confidential information    
  • Very good to excellent time management and prioritization skills
  • Very good skill in safe operation of office equipment including but not limited to copiers, faxes, shredders
  • Good interpersonal skills including ability to get along with diverse groups with tact and maturity
  • Ability to represent Lincoln Park Zoological Society in a professional manner at all times

Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, co-workers, consultants, visitors and general public in person, on phone, or by correspondence

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

Graduation from High School or the equivalent (GED) is required.

 

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Preference will be given to those individuals with ongoing undergraduate degree in biological sciences or veterinary medicine, or future plans for entry into veterinary school.

 

Further preference will be given to those individuals with prior administrative assistant experience, data entry experience, TRACKS,  or medical or veterinary clerical or record experience.

 

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 work on computer for long periods of time
  • Ability to remain seated for long periods of time
  • Ability to remain on feet for long periods of time
  • Ability to 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 regularly move 30 lb objects and occasionally move 50 lb objects
  • Ability to work in small, confined spaces
  • Ability to work in all weather conditions – including potentially adverse conditions
  • No allergy related to plants or animals that may interfere with the ability to work
  • No impairment of sight, smell, hearing, touch balance or ability of movement that might interfere with ability to work
  • Ability to maintain immune response to exposure to infectious and parasitic diseases

 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Available to work any of regular workdays (Monday-Friday) as full- or nearly full-time (5-8 hour day)
  • Available to work for special needs or events that may occur outside of regular work schedule, including evenings, weekends or holidays, as required. 
  • Non-infectious tuberculosis status via intradermal skin test, thoracic radiographs, or treatment regimen. 
  • Comfortable with a cooperative working environment in proximity to other administrative assistants and staff.
  • Comfortable working in a medical environment.
Seasonal Guest Engagement Leader

Guest Engagement Leaders (GELs) present education programs on zoo grounds about Lincoln Park Zoo’s animal collection, animal care, research and conservation issues.  They are responsible for providing effective educational programming and excellent guest service to all visitors.  This job is a part-time position ( three or four full workdays a week for a total of 24 – 30 hours) which begins in March and continues until the end of September.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

  • Deliver a suite of informal education programs to diverse groups of participants.
  • Communicate messages clearly to zoo visitors using a microphone and in one-on-one interactions. 
  • Serve as a credible source of information about various zoo topics.
  • Use interpretive skills, props and artifacts to engage visitors. 
  • Handle and present program animals for educational programs and informal presentations.
  • Assist with and deliver special event programs as determined by supervisor. 
  • Perform various tasks and other duties as assigned.

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

  • Able to interact positively and energetically in an informal learning environment.  
  • Able to clearly and effectively communicate with visitors of various ages, background and knowledge. 
  • Is equally comfortable presenting educational programs to single guests as well as large audiences.
  • Maintains a positive and flexible approach to daily responsibilities.  Works well in a team environment as well as independently.
  • Courteous and respectful with team members, other staff, volunteers and zoo visitors.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

·         Bachelor’s degree in biology, zoology, education, communication or similar preferred, or working toward a degree.

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

·         Capable of walking across zoo grounds, standing for long periods of time and working in a variety of weather conditions.

·         Capable of carrying supplies up to 20 pounds.   

 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

·         Experience with informal program delivery working with a wide variety of audiences preferred. 

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

·         Must be available to attend training dates in mid-to-late March.
Auxiliary Board Coordinator

Manage the daily operations of the Auxiliary Board and facilitate the Board’s efforts to reach its membership and fundraising goals.

·         Manage the daily operations of the Auxiliary Board of Lincoln Park Zoo.

·         Assist with the strategic planning of the Auxiliary Board by working closely with the Board President, the Board’s Executive committee and the zoo’s Donor Relations Director.

·         Working with volunteer leadership, identify ways to further cultivate Board members to maximize their effectiveness and ensure that they have a satisfactory experience.

·         Plan and oversee all Auxiliary Board events. Work with volunteer chairmen to implement the activities and make all preparations as necessary.

·         Oversee sponsorship efforts for the Auxiliary Board fundraising events by supporting Board members as they secure underwriting from individuals, corporations, and foundations.

·         Develop new funding sources and cultivate event donors to underwrite Auxiliary Board activities.

·         Manage and implement all Auxiliary Board communications and meetings.  Attend all general Board meetings, Executive Committee meetings and committee meetings, as possible.

·         Serve as liaison between Auxiliary Board and all zoo departments.

·         Manage the Auxiliary Board operating and event budgets.

·         Coordinate and implement the Auxiliary Board annual giving effort working with the Director of Annual Giving.

·         Respond to volunteer requests for information.

·         Other duties as assigned.

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

·         Must have strong communication and interpersonal skills.

·         Exceptional organizational skills essential.

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

·         Excellent typing and word processing skills required.

·         Candidate should thrive in a fast-paced, demanding environment.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor’s degree preferred.

 

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Three years’ experience with volunteers and event planning preferred.

 

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to remain on feet for long periods of time

Ability to operate and safely drive electric carts

Ability to work in all weather conditions

Ability to lift and move boxes and parcels of up to 45 lbs

 

 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Available to work evenings and weekends necessary.
Campaign Director

This position will lead a comprehensive capital and endowment fundraising program to meet priority capital, endowment and programmatic financial goals for Lincoln Park Zoo. This individual is responsible for planning, strategizing and securing major gifts from individuals, corporations and foundations as well as coordinating these objectives with major and planned giving staff and the entire Development Department.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

·         Lead all aspects of creating and launching a capital and endowment campaign to provide Lincoln Park Zoo with essential resources to develop and sustain critical capital projects and significant programmatic and endowment initiatives.

·         Lead a strategic institutional initiative to meet the on-going and forthcoming financial priorities of Lincoln Park Zoo, planning and implementing short-term and long-range objectives.

·         In conjunction with the Senior Director of Major and Planned Gifts, coordinate major gift fundraising across the institution. 

·         Serve as primary contact for the zoo’s Campaign volunteers.

·         Develop and implement a cultivation, solicitation and stewardship plan for the zoo’s campaign donors and prospects with appropriate assistance from zoo staff, Board members and other fundraising volunteers.

·         Oversee a creative and thorough prospect identification and management system to ensure that adequate numbers of prospective donors are being identified, cultivated and solicited and relevant cultivation and stewardship activities are occurring to engage donors.

·         Participate in the cultivation, stewardship and solicitation of zoo donors and prospects through tours, events and other zoo-related activities

·         Coordinate a timely reporting system for tracking prospect and donor activity and progress toward gift closure. 

·         Staff Chairman of the Board, President and CEO and Vice President for Development with targeted donor interactions and cultivation, stewardship and solicitation plans.

·         Maintain a portfolio of the key Campaign prospects and donors.

 

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

·         May be called upon to represent the zoo to external donor and community groups

·         Create strategic and operational plans that include constituency development and creative prospect identification and solicitations.

·         Responsible for Campaign budget oversight.

·         Performs other duties as assigned

 

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

·         Comprehensive knowledge of the zoo’s mission and philosophy; understanding of and passion for wildlife and the natural world

·         Strong knowledge of Chicago’s philanthropic community

·         Demonstrated integrity in the profession of fundraising combined with the skills and personal qualities necessary to assertively lead and educate direct reports, top-level staff, and a committed Board of Directors.

·         Very well-developed interpersonal skills.  Ability to get along with diverse groups.  Tactful, mature, intuitive and sensitive to nuance in human relations

·         Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with donors

·         Ability to express oneself clearly and effectively in oral and written form; ability to absorb and synthesize complex material

·         Working knowledge of integrated office software systems, Microsoft Office and Raiser’s Edge preferred

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor’s degree required.

 

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Successful candidate likely to have 10+ years direct fund raising experience with increasing levels of responsibility and success.

 

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 remain on feet for long periods.
  • Ability to address audiences of varying sizes. 
  • Ability to work at a computer for extended periods of time
  • Ability to traverse zoo grounds to escort donors or vendors and coordinate meetings
  • Ability to drive an electric cart on zoo grounds.

 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to work an extended schedule, including weekends, early mornings, evenings and holidays according to the demands of the role and tasks

 
Guest Service Concessions

Provide professional and courteous service to guests and operate seasonal concessions.

·         Greets all guests in a welcoming and courteous manner.

·         Open and close concessions including completing operational checklists and forms, selling services, cash handling, operating equipment and balancing banks.

·         Maintain order and tidiness of the work area which includes cleaning duties.

·         Is knowledgeable of concession operations.

·         Through cross training, be able to work at all concession areas.

·         Adhere to dress code.

·         Maintain the Seven Guidelines to Great Guest Service.

·         Accept directions during safety drills and emergency situations.

·         Other duties as assigned

·         Posses a pleasant, service-oriented and enthusiastic personality.

·         Excellent communication skills.

·         Excellent organizational skills.

·         Ability to quickly and accurately operate cash register or PC.

·         Ability to perform numerical detail work with speed and accuracy.

·         Ability to work independently

·         Ability to handle multiple work assignments.

·         Ability to interact courteously and respectfully with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, guests and general public.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

High scool diploma or equivalent

One-year cash handling experience preferred

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

Please send resume, cover letter, and application to hrjobs@lpzoo.org.  Incomplete submissions will not be reviewed.

Please no phone calls.  Lincoln Park Zoo is an equal opportunity employer.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to work alone for long periods

Ability to remain on feet for long periods of time

Ability to traverse zoo grounds

Ability to work in small, confined space

Ability to work in all weather conditions

Ability to work with mild cleaning supplies

Ability to do light lifting of boxed merchandise

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Available to work all necessary hours, including weekends, holidays, special events and all shifts.

Please send resume, cover letter, and application to hrjobs@lpzoo.org.  Incomplete submissions will not be reviewed.
Seasonal Volunteer Gardening Coordinator

Under direction of the Volunteer Gardening Coordinator responsible for day-to-day

 supervision of volunteer gardeners

·         Able to work peak gardening season from April 15 to October 15

·         Assists in training new and returning  gardening volunteers

·         Under the supervision of the Volunteer Gardening Coordinator, supervises and coordinates volunteer gardeners’ daily activities and volunteer group activities

·         Tracks the volunteer gardeners’ hours, program attendance and guest interactions

·         In conjunction with Volunteer Gardening Coordinator, identifies new opportunities for volunteer gardeners

·         Assists in the preparation recurring reports which include but are not limited to monthly volunteer hours; quarterly reports on program activities

·         In conjunction with Volunteer Gardening Coordinator and landscape maintenance contractor, identifies, coordinates, and assists in the planting of and maintenance of beds by volunteer gardeners.  Ensures that all tasks are completed following plan and applying knowledge of appropriate horticultural techniques 

·         Helps facilitate communication and interaction between zoo departments, volunteers and guests.

·         Works through department manager for the protection of the zoo animals from potentially toxic plants

·         Uses appropriate technology and resources to support program activities

·         Maintains inventory and program supplies; insures cleanliness and order of working environment

 

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

·         May be asked to represent the zoo at internal and external functions, including but not limited to zoo donor tours, zoo special events and professional meetings and conferences

·         May use electric carts and/or hand truck to transport plants and supplies

·         May use other gas small equipment (pump, auger, line trimmer, etc.) for land maintenance

·         May use vehicle for zoo pick-ups and deliveries

·         May be asked to direct volunteers and guests in a zoo emergency

·         Performs other duties as assigned

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

·         Knowledge of  appropriate horticulture techniques and practices

·         Basic knowledge of plant species and growing requirements

·         Knowledge of proper handling and use on a variety of related tools, equipment and machinery

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

·         Facility in public speaking and moderating groups of people

·         Ability to facilitate program delivery to a diverse group of volunteers

·         Ability to train volunteers in proper program practices and procedures

·         Ability to effect and enforce safe work practices

·         Ability to respond calmly and productively in emergency situations be they human or animal

·         Working knowledge of PCs, using word processing, spread sheet and databases software

·         Ability to understand and carry out oral and written directions 

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

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

·         Ability to operate electric cart, gas cart, and other small gas equipment

 

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

High School degree (or equivalent).  Associate’s degree in horticultural field or Zoo Horticulturist Certification preferred.

 

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Two years related experience, preferably working with volunteers, horticulture or teaching

 

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

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to lift on frequent basis up to 50 lbs. Ability to remain on feet for long periods of time. Ability to frequently bend, stoop, reach and climb. Ability to safely and effectively utilize the program tools and equipment. Ability to move about on sometimes slippery, muddy surfaces.

Ability to work in all weather conditions. Ability to work on uneven terrain

No allergy to plants or animals which may interfere with the ability to work.

 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Available to work weekends, holidays and evenings as assigned

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

Must have valid driver’s license with good driving record

Able to work flex schedule seasonally