About the role
Compensation: 16.50/hr
Join Our Team as a Zookeeper – Animal Care 1 & 2!
Do you have a passion for animals and a dedication to their care? Dundee Township Park District is seeking enthusiastic and hardworking individuals to join our team as Zookeepers at Randall Oaks Zoo & Park. If you enjoy hands-on animal care, maintaining habitats, and engaging with the public, this is the perfect opportunity for you!
What You’ll Do
As a Zookeeper you’ll
- Provide daily care for over 150 animals, including feeding, cleaning, and exhibit maintenance.
- Maintain clean, safe, and organized animal exhibits, holding areas, service areas, and equipment.
- Prepare and feed appropriate diets following established guidelines.
- Monitor animal health and behavior, reporting concerns to the Zoo Manager or Animal Curator.
- Assist with veterinary care, including administering medications and treatments after training.
- Safely restrain animals as needed following proper handling protocols.
- Identify and report safety, maintenance, or operational concerns.
- Engage with the public through educational programming and guest interactions.
- Operate equipment such as tractors, vehicles, and other tools related to zoo maintenance.
- Follow all safety policies, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Work collaboratively with zoo staff and support the mission and goals of the Park District.
Who You Are
You're a motivated and dependable team player with:
• At least 6 months of experience working with animals (zoo, farm, or shelter; household pets excluded).
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• A strong work ethic and ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physically demanding tasks (bending, climbing, kneeling, etc.).
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and environments.
• A valid Illinois driver’s license.
• Comfort with public speaking and engaging with guests.
• Ability to follow safety procedures and OSHA regulations.
• Fluency in English; bilingual Spanish skills are a plus.
Schedule
- Part-time, limited hourly (non-exempt) position.
- Up to 30 hours per week, March through December.
- Weekend and holiday shifts required, with occasional extended hours.
- Position limited to 1,000 hours per year.
In Exchange for Your Time and Talent, We Offer
- Select one of the following:
- Individual Fitness Center (100-day) pass OR
- Family Season Pass at Dolphin Cove Aquatic Center OR
- Family Season Pass at Randall Oaks Zoo and Park
- Free/discounted District programs, merchandise and concessions
- Credit Union
Ready to Make a Difference?
Bring your passion for animal care to the Dundee Township Park District! Whether you're pursuing a career in zookeeping, wildlife conservation, or simply love working with animals, this role offers a meaningful and hands-on experience.
Apply today and help us provide exceptional care for our animals!