Design - Lead Craftsworker

Join the PRIDE!

The Lead Craftsworker-Design contributes to the success of Brookfield Zoo Chicago ("BZC") by overseeing the operations of the Design Sign Shop in the daily supervision, coordination, and implementation of all routine and special signage work, as well as the in-park sign maintenance program.

This is a union fulltime position. The hourly rate for this position is $39.00/hour (effective 4/1/25). Our Benefits Summary Information (for this position, please refer to the union, fulltime employee section): Benefits Table You may also copy and past this link in your browser for ease of viewing:

www.brookfieldzoo.org/custom.czs/files/06/06337b2c-b3db-45a2-8eb2-f8362486bd0e.pdf

PRIMARY JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The Lead Craftsworker is expected to perform a variety of duties, which include but are not limited to the following: Specific assignments may vary depending upon the specific nature of work performed and/or specific duties assigned.

*Builds and/or installs signage elements as specified, using power equipment, paint, and other (sometimes hazardous) materials without direct supervision. Maintains a safe environment for staff, animals, and guests. Follows established departmental procedures.

*Performs routine tasks, including but not limited to:

1. Delivering and collecting temporary signs;
2. Performing preventative maintenance, cut requests, installation of routine signage;
3. Responding promptly to special repairs and emergency signage;
4. Identifying problems regarding guest safety, park presentation, and guest experience;
5. Performing routine inspections of the park and advises supervisor of needed adjustments, repairs, etc.; and
6. Coordinating work as needed with other BZC departments.

*Supervises and coordinates the work in the Design Sign Shop on a daily basis including but not limited to:

1. Assigning work to Design Craftsworkers, maintaining Design Sign Shop staffing schedule, to insure department goals and project deadlines are met;
2. Providing feedback to staff on a regular basis with respect to work assignments and prioritization and providing frequent updates to manager on progress of work through the use of various forms of communication including the Shop Prioritization List spreadsheet;
3. Providing input to manager's written employee performance evaluation, implementation, and follow-up;
4. Providing necessary training, direction, and orientation to staff as well as recommending additional training related to staff performance and development; and
5. Participating in interviewing and hiring recommendations for any new Design Sign Shop staff.

*Assists in the development of Design Sign Shop budget for purchasing, maintenance, and repairs. Monitors individual budget line spreadsheet to assure expenses and purchases for the Design Sign Shop budget are within the allotted funds. Notifies manager of any potential budget issues or variances.

Other related duties as assigned.

*Denotes Essential Job Function(s)

POSITION REQUIREMENTS AND SPECIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or educational equivalent (e.g., GED.) required.
• Graduate of an accredited apprenticeship program, two years' relevant experience at a journeyman level, or equivalent combinations of training and/or experience required.

• Five years relevant, comparable experience, including a track record of progressive responsibility.
• Minimum one-year relevant supervisory experience.
• Knowledge and experience in scheduling, estimating, and purchasing.
• Proficiency in the use and maintenance of construction-type materials, equipment, and tools. Requires experience with fabrication using woods, plastics and metals, as well as concrete installation, painting, and finishing.
• Requires a strong aesthetic sense, ability to visualize and plan projects, and ability to manipulate three-dimensional objects and construction.
• Familiarity with all codes and regulations related to field.
• Ability to read, write, and perform all required math commensurate with field of responsibility and required administrative and job duties.
• English fluency at a professional working proficiency required.
• Ability to lead, motivate, and direct teams.
• Good organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills required.
• Good problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Ability to work with little or no direct supervision.
• Ability to meet deadlines and handle multiple projects simultaneously.
• Experience and/or ability to work and interact effectively with a diverse, multicultural audience.
• Valid driver's license required at time of hire. Illinois residents must possess a valid Illinois driver's license or obtain one within 90 days of hire. Valid out-of-state driver's license is required for out-of-state residents.

DESIRABLE/PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Three years relevant supervisory experience preferred.
• Experience or knowledge of signage and interactive construction desirable.
• Knowledge in reading blueprints and construction specifications and managing projects desirable.
• Ability to communicate in 2D and 3D through sketches, drawings, and models desirable.
• Basic computer skills on PC or Macintosh platform a plus, including spreadsheet, e-mail, and word processing software.
• Experience with Microsoft Outlook, Excel, and Word a plus.
• Multilingual ability, Spanish fluency a plus.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: This position description summarizes the primary duties and functions of this position, but should not be considered a complete listing of every duty the incumbent may ever be called upon to perform. The Lead Craftsworker position is a hands-on technical and supervisory position that requires a wide range of knowledge, experience, and skill in working with traditional and specialized signage fabrication materials and equipment, as well as administration and supervision of staff. Incumbent must develop an understanding of BZC's mission, vision, and values, as well as an understanding of BZC's diverse audiences. The nature of the work produced by the Design Department requires flexibility, dependability, and a cooperative, results-oriented staff that can work out solutions to respond to the varied and intense list of service requests received each year. Incumbent must be flexible, adaptable, and comfortable in a dynamic organization and an environment that is mission and vision driven. Incumbent is expected to assist and inform the public as needed.

If interested in being considered for this opportunity, please visit the BZC Career Center to obtain more details about the position and to apply by submitting your profile. Please visit our website at brookfieldzoo.org/careers. Please look for requisition number 152.

The mission of Brookfield Zoo Chicago is to inspire conservation leadership by connecting people to wildlife and nature. Accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums, American Humane, and the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums. Brookfield Zoo Chicago is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Benefits information:

www.brookfieldzoo.org/custom.czs/files/06/06337b2c-b3db-45a2-8eb2-f8362486bd0e.pdf

Union Full-Time Employees

Eligibility: Eligible employee is defined as a regular, full-time employee who is regularly scheduled to work a minimum of 35 hours or more per week.

Time away from work: Vacation time is accrued on a per-payroll basis based on an employment anniversary year starting on the date of hire. Unused vacation time does not carry over from one calendar year to the next.

Vacation: Vacation is earned based on the following schedule:

Personal Days: Union employees receive three (3) personal days per year which can be used for any purpose. Advance scheduling is required when foreseeable. Personal days are pro-rated for the first year of employment. Personal days must be used by the end of each calendar year. Any employee with 20 years of service or more receives one additional personal day each year.

Sick Time: Sick time accrues at a rate equivalent to 10 sick days per year. Any employee who does not use sick time during the calendar year is credited with two (2) additional sick days that year. Accumulation of sick time is unlimited.

Holidays: Union employees are eligible for 10 paid holidays per year.

Medical Insurance: BZC pays 100% of the cost of benefits for bargaining unit employees. There is no cost to the employee. Medical insurance is provided through the Teamsters union. One plan is available. A waiver credit is provided for employees who waive enrollment in medical insurance. Coverage begins following a 90-day waiting period. Coverage continues for 90 days after the employee's date of separation. Employees can also cover their spouse and child(ren) under age 27.

Retirement Savings: A 401(k) savings plan is available for all employees. Choose either pre-tax and/or Roth after-tax contributions. First of the quarter following one year of service, eligible employees receive matching contributions of 50% of the first 6% you contribute.

Employer-paid Income Protection: Short-Term disability benefits are provided through the Teamsters union, for up to 26 weeks, if you are unable to work. Long-Term disability benefits are provided through Brookfield Zoo Chicago for up to 60% of the employee's monthly wages if the employee is unable to return to work. Basic Term Life insurance is provided through the Teamsters union. Eligible employees are automatically enrolled in these benefits.

Voluntary Benefits:

- Group Accident Insurance

- Group Critical Illness Insurance

- Identity Theft Protection

Other Benefits & Perks for All Employees (unless otherwise noted)

• Chicago Zoological Society | Brookfield Zoo, 3300 Golf Rd, Brookfield, Illinois, United States of America