Nutrition Center Technician

Nutrition Center Support

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. Visit us at lpzoo.org.

General Summary

To provide necessary support to the Nutrition Center for the preparation and delivery of diets and supplies for all animal areas as required; supply item stocking and inventory, cleaning and sanitizing of food preparation and supplies storage areas, and other related duties to nutrition, food and collection supply inventory and handling.

Essential Functions

• Responsible for daily food preparation by accurately following written and oral instructions concerning type, quality, and quantity of food including bulk produce, meat and fish.
• Responsible for the purchasing, unloading, storage, arrangement of all produce, meat/fish products, and various hays including rotation of these items to assure freshness as well as random sampling and shipment of said products for nutritional analysis.
• Responsible for receiving and delivering live insects to various buildings throughout the zoo.
• Responsible for unloading, storage, and maintenance of all dry goods and supplies in nutrition center inventory and other areas of the zoo as needed.
• Receives and delivers supplies from vendors; checks packing lists against supplies received; and inspects supplies and food items for damage, or quality.
• Responsible for all nutrition center animal care related pick-ups and deliveries, both on and off zoo grounds.
• Providing support as needed to veterinary department and pest control with transport of confined non- collection wildlife or domestic animals.
• Maintains communication with management and animal keepers on dietary and building supply needs.
• Build upon and maintain business relationships and direct communication with external and internal vendors
• Perform other operational duties of the nutrition center including: consulting with Nutrition Manager on animal diets; preparing special diet mixes; keeping commissary food preparation and storeroom areas including counters, refrigerators, freezers, floors, and equipment in a neat, orderly and sanitary condition.
• Must become familiar with all HACCP protocols and procedures and be willing to follow them at all times
• Mandatory training and safe operation of vehicles and loading equipment including but not limited to fork lift and pallet jack.

Additional Responsibilities

• Assist in preparation and presentation of training programs for zoo staff as requested.
• Work necessary hours as requested including all shifts, weekends, holidays, and special events.
• Other duties as assigned to maintain efficient and quality zoo operations

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• 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.
• Ability to safely and efficiently operate all specialized food preparation equipment including but not limited to, microwaves, grinders, blenders, dishwashers, sharpeners, knives, saws and mixers.
• Knowledge of computer programs of basic word processing, spreadsheets, and internet database access.
• Considerable knowledge of the zoo's mission and philosophy.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment in emergency situations and to respond with appropriate action.
• Ability to exercise safe work habits in proximity of potentially dangerous animals and equipment.
• 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, visitors and general public.

Education Requirements

• Graduation from High School or the equivalent (GED) is required.
• Bachelor's Degree in Biological Sciences or a closely related discipline is preferred.

Experience Requirements

• Previous experience of two (2) years, performing food handling and warehouse activities
• Experience in zoo, aquarium or like institution is desirable.

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 remain on feet for long periods of time
• Ability to work on the computer for long periods of time
• Ability to traverse zoo grounds without vehicle
• Ability to perform a variety of physical tasks that include but are not limited to climbing, crouching,
• bending, stooping, kneeling, twisting, reaching, crawling
• The employee will be regularly exposed to water, chemicals, and potentially loud noises.
• Physical strength, including ability to regularly move 50 lb objects, including lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, or otherwise moving them.
• Ability to work in small, confined spaces
• Ability to work in cooler or freezer temperatures for up to 4 hours daily
• Ability to work in all weather conditions - including frequently in potentially adverse conditions
• Ability to wear requisite Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) that may include rubber/latex gloves, masks, eye goggles and airway protection
• 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 all necessary hours, including weekends, holidays, special events and all shifts.
• Available to attend training sessions and conferences as needed.
• Proof of negative TB test

Licenses and certificates

• Valid IL driver's license and able to maintain a good driving record

Our Promise

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

In addition to such standard benefits (Blue Cross Blue Shield) as medical, dental, vision, life, and disability coverages, and a 403(b) savings plan with an institutional match, benefits of working at the zoo include (benefits are for regular full time employees):

• 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: $28.23