Careers with the Chicago Zoological Society
What types of positions are available?
Many people think of the zookeepers when they think about working at a zoo, but it takes many diverse people with a wide range of talents, skills, knowledge, and experience to operate a zoo. These include office and administrative staff, fundraising staff, safety and security professionals, groundskeepers, custodians, tradesmen, marketing professionals, education staff, food service workers, facilities workers, merchandise and retail staff, membership staff, graphic artists, computer professionals, and many others.
Is Brookfield Zoo open in the winter?
Yes! The zoo is open 365 days a year and has over 475 year-round positions. In addition, over 1,000 additional workers are hired to staff the zoo during our busy summer season. Most office positions are Monday through Friday, but many positions require work on holidays and/or weekends.
How do I become a zookeeper?
To become a zookeeper with the Chicago Zoological Society, you must possess a Bachelors Degree in biology, animal husbandry, zoology, or an equivalent combination of training and/or experience. Prior relevant experience working with animals is also a must for these highly competitive positions. Zookeepers are involved with basic animal care, but also perform animal observations, may participate in breeding programs, and much more. Some of our zookeepers started as an intern or in a temporary zookeeping position. These positions are a good way to gain useful experience to help qualify for a full-time position as a zookeeper.
How can I get experience as a zookeeper?
Temporary zookeeping positions may eventually lead to full-time employment. You may also gain experience by participating in the Society’s College Experiential Learning Opportunities (C.E.L.O.) program for college students who are interested in internships and work-study opportunities. Participation in the C.E.L.O. program is limited to college-level applicants and involves a formal application and selection process. See our
web page on Internship opportunities for more information.
What is it like to work at Chicago Zoological Society?
Chicago Zoological Society has an exciting, fast-paced work environment and a family atmosphere. We are very focused on our customers, the over 2 million guests who visit the zoo each year. The organization is committed to conservation in the broadest sense and strives for excellence in every aspect of our operations. Our employees enjoy a unique, flexible work environment that is based on cooperation, involvement, responsibility, and recognition. At Brookfield Zoo, we work hard and play hard! In addition, you have the benefit every day of working within a beautiful, park-like setting, with a worthwhile organization with a true sense of purpose and a strong commitment to animals and conservation.
Should I mail a copy of my resume if I’ve already sent one by e-mail or fax?
No. If you have faxed your resume or sent a computerized copy to the Human Resources Department, there is no need to follow-up with a hard copy by mail.
How do I know if my resume was received?
When we receive your resume or application by e-mail, you will receive a confirmation that your resume was received and a form to voluntarily disclose information required for federal government reporting purposes. If you send your resume or application by regular mail or fax, you will receive the voluntary disclosure form. If it is determined that an interview is desired, you will be contacted to arrange an interview. If no interview is desired, you will not be contacted further, and your resume will be held on file for a period of two years, and you will be considered for other positions that become available.
How do I get to Brookfield Zoo?
The zoo is accessible by public transportation, including the bus and commuter train. The zoo is also accessible via the Eisenhower Expressway (exit I-290 at First Avenue South) and the Stevenson Expressway (exit I-55 at First Avenue North). Follow the signs to Brookfield Zoo.
What kind of people do you look for?
Besides having the required background and qualifications for a job, we look for people who are caring, flexible, team oriented, outgoing and enthusiastic, who have strong people skills, a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and who have an interest in animals and the natural world.
Where do you advertise current jobs?
The Society utilizes over 175 different recruitment sources including the internet, schools and universities, community organizations, major local, regional, and national publications, trade and professional associations, minority organizations, participation in job fair events, and variety of other community recruitment and referral sources. The particular sources used for each opening are determined based on the type of position involved and other recruitment needs.