Seasonal Browse Keeper

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. As an accredited arboretum and botanic garden, Lincoln Park Zoo works to provide the same science-based care to the plant life on our 49-acre campus as we do to the animals in our care. Visit us at lpzoo.org.

GENERAL SUMMARY

The department of Animal Care and Horticulture is an integrated team that cares for the animals and plants that live at the Lincoln Park Zoo.

Seasonal Browse Keepers report to the Curator of Primates and are support staff to the Animal Care department, responsible for assisting in daily browse procurement for feeding, browse processing from locals deliveries, cutting, processing and freezing fresh cut browse for winter availability and debris removal. This position involves physically demanding outdoor work. Duties may include lifting, bending, kneeling, cutting branches, carrying equipment, and prolonged periods of standing or walking. Work is performed outdoors in all weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, wind, and sun exposure. Applicants should be physically capable of performing these tasks safely and comfortably and should be aware of the inherent risks associated with manual labor and outdoor environments. This position is part time, June through October, approximately 2 days/week.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Support primates and other browsing species by tending to browse deliveries and accompanying Curator and/or animal keeper staff and volunteers by cutting fresh browse from nearby trees.  Daily tasks including but not limited to cutting, packing barrels or vacuum sealed bags, clean up and removing debris.


• Learn, understand, and demonstrate the ability to safely operate and maintain tools and equipment used in daily work, including pole saws, hand tools, blowers, hedge trimmers and hoses


• Frequently works independently and in groups with other zoo staff and volunteers.


• Assist in the loading, unloading, and transportation of plants, garden equipment and materials.


• Maintains inventory, cleanliness and function of daily use tools and supplies. Support the Curator of Primates in general tool maintenance and organization.


• Ensures cleanliness, order, and safety of their working environment.


• Able to arrive to work on time, stay focused, and complete tasks as instructed.


• Demonstrate and uphold the zoo’s core values and mission.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Performs other duties as assigned.


• Ability to wear appropriate PPE.


• Proof of Negative TB Test

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Ability to communicate and be understood in verbal and written English via radio, phone, and text.


• Ability to understand and carry out oral and written directions.


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


• Knowledge of proper handling and use of a variety of related tools, equipment and machinery.


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


• Knowledge of appropriate gardening techniques and practices helpful.

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

• High School degree (or equivalent). 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to lift 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 uneven terrain and sometimes slippery, muddy surfaces.


• Ability to work in all weather conditions.


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

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must have valid driver’s license with good driving record.


• Available to work varying Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Our Commitment

Lincoln Park Zoo is committed to an environment that is inclusive and welcoming. We celebrate the diverse qualities, perspectives, values, and experiences of all people.  For Wildlife. For All.

LINCOLN PARK ZOO BENEFITS

• Free admission to many other Chicago cultural institutions


• Free on-site parking anytime with access to Lincoln Park, Lakeshore Trail, and North Avenue Beach


• Discounts on event tickets (free admission to select events), attractions, dining, and retail at the zoo


• Quarterly staff mingle events and “LPZooU” training and educational sessions about the zoo, wildlife, ecology, and related subjects


• Company contribution to Health Savings Account (Medical PPO only)


• A working environment with green spaces and regularly available visits with wildlife!

Salary: $16.60/hr.