Nutrition (Commissary) Technician: Lincoln Park Zoo

https://careers.hireology.com/lincolnparkzoologicalsociety/855705/description

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 JOB 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 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 unloading, storage, and maintenance of all dry goods and supplies in nutrition center
inventory and other areas of the zoo as needed
• Receives supplies from vendors; checks packing lists against supplies received; and inspects supplies
and food items for damage, or quality
• Responsible for taking inventory and ordering produce, meat, fish, other food items, and various
goods needed by the Nutrition Center
• Responsible for all nutrition center related pick-ups and deliveries, both on and off zoo grounds, and
providing support to veterinary department and pest control with transport of confined non-collection
wildlife or domestic animals
• Maintains communication with animal keepers on dietary and building supply needs.
• 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
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 ovens, microwaves, grinders, blenders, dishwashers, sharpeners, and mixers
• Good skill – or learn good skill – in safe operation of vehicles and loading equipment including but
not limited to fork lift and pallet jack
• 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
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 attend training sessions and conferences as needed
• Proof of negative TB test
• Proof of covid vaccine
LICENSES AND CERTIFICATES
• Valid IL driver’s license and able to maintain a good driving record