JOBS

The Animal Experience Ambassador Seasonal is a seasonal, hourly position grade GS005-2 with pay rate of $17.00 per hour. Benefits: Mental Health support and retirement savings.
The Animal Experience Ambassador Seasonal is not a hands-on animal care position. Ideal candidates for the Ambassador, Animal Experience Seasonal position will have a background or interest in areas such as conservation education, environmental education, wildlife education, outdoor education, zoo education, conservation outreach, public programs, nature programs, animal science, zoology, natural history, biology, ecology, nature education, public speaking, or interpretive guide.
This Animal Experience Ambassador Seasonal contributes to the success of Brookfield Zoo Chicago (“BZC”) by engaging guests and providing informative and innovative education to increase guests’ appreciation of animals and nature and to contribute to providing an exceptional guest experience. The basic function of this position is to facilitate engaging guest interactions with a variety of animals, ensuring the safety and well-being of both animals & guests.

• Observe/monitor interactive animal areas, ensuring a high standard of engagement, education, and safety across all areas, including but not limited to the Goat & Wallaby yards, Parakeet & Butterfly Aviaries, Reticulated giraffe feedings, along with a variety of behind-the-scenes experiences. Observe animal behavior closely reporting any unusual activity or concerns to Supervisor, Animal Experiences and/or Animal Care Specialists.
• Engage Zoo guests in celebrating animals and nature by interpreting animals and nature in assigned areas.
• Facilitate behind-the-scenes experiences, ensuring efficient guest check-in, smooth transitions, and consistent program delivery.
• Facilitate daily Penguin Encounter programs, providing engaging conservation messaging, animal information, and collaborate effectively with Animal Care Specialists.
• Uphold Zoo policies and safety protocols within shared animal areas. Escalate to Supervisor/Manager as needed.
• Attend meetings and training sessions as assigned.
• Communicate effectively interdepartmentally, ensuring accurate and timely radio communication.
• Maintain proficiency in the natural history and individual identification of animals.
• Escalate abnormal or concerning animal observations to Supervisor, Animal Experiences in a clear and objective manner.
• Prepare and distribute food to guests during giraffe feeding experience, ensuring adherence to safety and hygiene protocols while maintaining a high-quality educational guest experience.
• Active participation in regular shift and area check-ins with fellow team members and provide support and recognition to promote continuous improvement and morale.