Animal Attendant in Chicago, Illinois at WESTSIDE HEALTH AUTHORITY

About the Role:

The Animal Attendant plays a vital role in ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of animals under their care within a controlled environment such as a zoo, aquarium, or wildlife sanctuary. This position requires meticulous attention to detail in maintaining clean and safe habitats, administering medications as prescribed, and monitoring animal behavior to promptly identify any health or welfare concerns. The role demands physical stamina and the ability to perform tasks such as lifting up to 30 pounds and standing for extended periods, ensuring that all animals receive consistent and compassionate care. Additionally, the Animal Attendant is responsible for maintaining accurate records using computer application software, supporting the broader team in delivering educational and conservation goals. Ultimately, this position contributes directly to the successful operation of animal exhibits and the promotion of animal welfare standards within the facility.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ability to read and write effectively to maintain accurate records and follow written instructions.
• Experience or demonstrated ability to administer medications safely to animals.
• Physical capability to stand for long periods and lift up to 30 pounds as required by daily tasks.
• Basic proficiency with computer application software for record-keeping and communication.
• Knowledge of proper sanitization techniques to ensure clean and safe animal environments.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience working in an animal care or zoological setting.
• Formal training or certification in animal husbandry or veterinary assistance.
• Familiarity with specialized pool cleaning equipment and exhibit maintenance procedures.
• Strong interpersonal skills to effectively communicate with team members and the public.
• Ability to adapt to a dynamic work environment with varying animal care needs.

Responsibilities:

• Clean and sanitize animal pools, exhibits, and surrounding areas to maintain a hygienic environment.
• Administer medications and treatments to animals as directed by veterinary staff, ensuring accurate dosages and documentation.
• Monitor animal behavior and physical condition, reporting any abnormalities or concerns to supervisors promptly.
• Lift and move supplies or equipment weighing up to 30 pounds safely and efficiently as part of daily tasks.
• Maintain detailed records of animal care activities, including feeding, medication administration, and habitat maintenance using computer software.
• Present a neat and professional appearance while interacting with colleagues and visitors, upholding the facility’s standards.
• Stand for long periods during animal care routines, exhibit maintenance, and public engagement activities.

Skills:

The required skills such as pool cleaning and exhibit sanitization are essential for maintaining a safe and healthy habitat for the animals, directly impacting their well-being. Administering medications requires precision and care, ensuring that animals receive proper treatment while maintaining detailed records through computer application software to track their health status. Physical skills like lifting up to 30 pounds and standing for long periods enable the Animal Attendant to perform daily tasks efficiently and safely. Reading and writing skills support accurate documentation and communication within the team, which is critical for coordinated animal care. Preferred skills, including experience with animal husbandry and interpersonal communication, enhance the ability to work collaboratively and respond effectively to the needs of both animals and colleagues.