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Brookfield Zoo Chicago

Public Relations - Public Relations and Media Manager

Brookfield Zoo Chicago, Brookfield, Illinois, United States, 60513


Join the PRIDE

and Brookfield Zoo Chicago's mission to ignite emotional connections with wildlife that spark conservation action while leading vital programs to protect endangered species. Our beautiful 235-acre campus offers a living classroom that is home to over 3,500 animals representing 500 species. Brookfield Zoo Chicago is embarking on a groundbreaking, ambitious Next Century Plan to achieve our vision. It is the beginning of an exciting transformative journey!

The Public Relations and Media Manager position will provide essential support to the Public Relations Director in executing day-to-day public relations initiatives aimed at promoting the Zoo's events, programs, and conservation efforts. In addition to external communication responsibilities, this position will manage the organization and administration of the zoo's multimedia assets, such as photo and video content, to be used in external communications campaigns, by media and partners, and within zoological operations.

This is a non-union, fulltime, salaried position, grade 08, with a hiring range of $67,000 to $73,700. The Benefits Summary Information (for this position, please refer to the non-union, fulltime employee section): Benefits Table and/or details also provided below after the job description information.

PRIMARY JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

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

* Support the Director of Public Relations with drafting press materials, building media lists, pitching media stories, and coordinating press conferences, media tours, exhibit openings, media requests, interviews, and onsite visits. Supports management of the Zoo's online newsroom, providing digital asset to the previously mentioned media materials. * Oversee media monitoring and data collection for the team, tracking media coverage and relevant news stories to develop PR results, analytic reports and internal media highlights/recaps using media monitoring software. * Conduct research on relevant topics, gather data, and prepare reports to support public relations strategies and initiatives. Conduct competitor analysis to understand and share insights on the current market landscape, identifying opportunities for differentiation and improvement. * Support the integration of a digital asset management platform and/or help build a new photo/video organization system to maximize efficiency of sharing multimedia content with internal and external audiences. * Facilitate the sourcing and sharing of photo and video content for internal and external requests, ensuring timely access to digital assets. Ensure accurate use of photos/video in PR and digital content, including removing photos/video from collection during staff, animal or construction changes. * Provide writing support to Communications team members as needed. * Support internal communications initiatives, such as staff newsletter and emails, as needed. Other related duties as assigned.

* Denotes Essential Job Function(s)

POSITION REQUIREMENTS AND SPECIFICATIONS: Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Science, or other related field required. High school diploma or educational equivalent (e.g., GED.) required. Two years' experience in a comparable public relations capacity required. English fluency at a full professional proficiency. Strong familiarity with media relations and ability to communicate effectively at a variety of levels. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and media monitoring/database software programs. Strong ability to prioritize workload, multi-task effectively, and work efficiently and responsibly with minimal supervision. Sound judgment and ability to maintain confidentiality of privileged information. Strong interpersonal skills; ability to build and maintain positive relationships. Ability to provide high level of customer service. Passion for wildlife conservation, environmental education, and promoting positive change through effective communication. Cultural competency; experience and/or ability to work and interact effectively with a diverse, multicultural audience. Valid driver's license required on date of hire. Illinois residents must possess a valid Illinois driver's license or obtain one within 90 days of hire. A valid out-of-state driver's license is required for out-of-state residents. DESIRABLE/PREFERREDQUALIFICATIONS:

Spanish writing and editing experience a plus. Experience with Microsoft Word highly desirable. 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. This incumbent works with Marketing staff and others to create, write, edit and supervise production and proofing of onsite and offsite communications including, but not limited to: signage, zoo maps, member communications, advertising, website content, social media, educational materials, and fundraising publications. The incumbent helps to ensure that the highest standards are upheld BZC's print publications and zoo-exhibit interpretive signage. Develops and supervises the production of publications and website materials to inform, guide, and educate the public, promote conservation and scientific discovery through publications and signage, advertise special events and services to guests, members, employees, and other relevant audiences. Oversees and/or supervises the editorial production of major printed pieces (magazines, manuals, reports), smaller printed pieces (newsletters, brochures, flyers, tickets, print advertisements, etc.) and website material, and supervises editing and proofing of signage. Individual must be able to effectively communicate complex biological principles to readers at a variety of levels, ages, and experiences. The incumbent must be highly self-motivated and self-directed, have high attention to detail, and complete the majority of routine work with minimal input from supervisor. Must be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment that is mission and vision driven and embrace BZC's core values.

BENEFIT INFORMATION:

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

We are pleased that you are considering joining our dedicated team at Brookfield Zoo Chicago (BZC). Below is a summary of Brookfield Zoo Chicago's generous employee benefits. Please note, benefits vary based on whether benefits are provided through the Teamsters Union for positions represented by the Teamsters or by Brookfield Zoo Chicago for non-union positions. For non-union positions, some benefits also differ by pay grade classification if noted.

Non-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. Coverage begins on the date of hire. Have a family? You can also cover your spouse, civil union partner, and/or eligible children who are under age 26.

Time away from work

:

Paid Time Off (PTO) is accrued based on Years of Service and pay grade on a per-pay-period basis starting on the date of hire. Unused PTO time carries forward from one calendar year to the next to a specified maximum. Below are the equivalent amounts employees, who work 8 hours per day or 10 hours per day, earn in a 12-month period. An employee's pay grade is included in the job description.

Years of Service

New hire- 5 years

5+ years

10+ years

15+ years

20+ years

Positions in Grades 01H-06 • 21 days • 26 days • 31 days • 36 days • 37 days

Positions in Grades

07H-14-14MT-15MT • 26 days • 26 days • 31 days • 36 days • 37 days

Positions in Grades

16H-17MT • 31 days • 31 days • 36 days • 36 days • 37 days

Positions in Grades

07H1-081 (10hr/day) • 18 days • 22 days • 26 days • 30 days • 31 days

Holidays

:

Non-union employees are eligible for 8 paid holidays per year.

1.

New Year's Day

2.

Memorial Day

3.

Juneteenth

4.

Independence Day

5.

Labor Day

6.

Thanksgiving Day

7.

Day after Thanksgiving Day

8.

Christmas Day

Medical Insurance

:

Employees may choose from one of two medical plans: Blue Cross-Blue Shield HMO or PPO Plan. A waiver credit is available to employees who waive enrollment in medical insurance. Coverage begins on the employee's hire date.

Benefit

Coverage Tiers Available

HMO Employee Cost

(biweekly)

PPO Employee Cost

(biweekly)

Waiver Credit

(biweekly)

Medical Insurance

Single, Single +1, Family

$71.19 - $279.22

$46.26 - $181.49

Not Applicable

Medical Waiver

Not Applicable

Not Applicable

Not Applicable

-$38.47

HMO

PPO

Annual Deductible

$0

For In-Network: $250 Individual / $500 Family

For Out-of-Network: $500 Individual / $1,000 Family

Out-of-pocket maximum

$1,500 Individual / $3,000 Family

Prescription drug expense limit: $1,000 Individual / $2,000 Family

For In-Network: $1,000 Individual / $2,000 Family

For Out-of-Network: $2,000 Individual / $4,000 Family

Doctor Visits

PCP Visit

Specialist Visit

Preventive care/

screening/Immunization

$20/visit

$60/visit

No Charge

$20/visit; deductible does not apply

$40/visit; deductible does not apply

No Charge; deductible does not apply

Hospitalization

Facility Fee

Physician's/surgeon's fees

$250/day

No Charge

20% co-insurance

20% co-insurance

Prescription Drugs

Generics

Preferred Brand Drugs

Non-Preferred Brand Drugs

Specialty Drugs

$30/prescription (retail)

$60/prescription (mail order)

$45/prescription (retail)

$90/prescription (mail order)

$60/prescription (retail)

$120/prescription (mail order)

$60/prescription (retail)

Deductible does not apply

$5/prescription (retail), $10/prescription (mail order)

$15/prescription (retail), $30/prescription (mail order)

$30/prescription (retail), $60/prescription (mail order)

$5/$15/$30/ prescription (retail)

Dental Insurance & Vision Care Coverage

:

A dental plan and an employee-paid vision care plan are available. A waiver credit is offered to employees who waive enrollment in the dental plan. Coverage begins on the employee's hire date.

Mental Health

:

Support, counseling, and resources for life issues at no cost to the employee. Eligible employees and their immediate family have access to Perspectives, a dynamic Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) which provides 24/7, confidential care and resources to address work and life stressors.

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 and Long-Term disability benefits are available which provide up to 60% of the employee's base weekly wages for the first 90 days, then up to 60% of the employee's monthly wages if the employee is unable to return to work. Basic Term Life & Basic Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance policies each in the coverage amount of 1X the employee's annual salary, plus an additional $10,000 in coverage. Eligible employees are automatically enrolled in these benefits upon hire.

Pre-tax Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

:

Brookfield Zoo Chicago believes in helping eligible employees take advantage of pre-tax savings for eligible healthcare and/or dependent care expenses. Eligible employees may set aside pre-tax dollars from their paychecks to save for pre-tax reimbursement of qualified healthcare and/or dependent care expenses.

Voluntary Benefits

:

-Supplemental Term Life Insurance - Group Accident Insurance

-Supplemental Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance - Group Critical Illness Insurance

-Supplemental Dependent Life Insurance - Identity Theft Protection

Other Benefits &

Perks for All Employees (unless otherwise noted)

Advanced Inquiry Degree Program

Brookfield Zoo Chicago has partnered with Project Dragonfly at Miami University of Ohio to bring an exciting Master's degree program to the Chicagoland area. The Advanced Inquiry Program (AIP) is an inquiry-driven learning experience, allowing participants to take classes from Miami University faculty. Enrollment is open to applicants with a bachelor's degree, regardless of academic major or profession. This program is designed for teachers and other education professionals.

BZC University

The Zoo offers a variety of training, both on-site and via virtual classes and e-learning through Brookfield Zoo Chicago University at no cost to employees, including professional development, skill-building courses, conservation topics, zoo and animal-related topics, safety, leadership development, wellness, and much more. Instructors include guest speakers, staff presenters, and outside trainers.

Tuition Reimbursement

Regular, full-time non-union employees who have at least one year of seniority are eligible to apply for reimbursement of tuition expenses to a maximum of $1,000 per calendar year.

Access Credit Union

Employees are eligible immediately upon employment to participate in the credit union. The minimum balance is $5. Savings are insured up to $100,000, and savings accounts, new and used car loans, personal loans, student loans, and much more are available.

Blackhawk Work Perks

Special offers on Chicago Blackhawks games. Tickets start at $30.

Discounted Membership at Loyola Center for Fitness

Corporate discount members receive $0 enrollment and 25% off individual dues. Monthly pricing is subject to the number of people on the membership.

Discounted Day Care

Discounted day care is available through a partnership with KinderCare Education to provide discounted childcare benefits for employees. Covered brands include KinderCare® Learning Centers, Children's Creative Learning Center, Inc. (CCLC), and Champions before and after-school care programs. Employees with children enrolled at a participating center save 10% on childcare tuition for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years available at over 100 locations throughout the greater Chicago metropolitan area.

Employee Discounts

Employees may benefit from "Working Advantage," an employee discount program, which offers a wide variety of discounts to staff.

Enterprise-Rent-A-Car

Discounts are available to staff members through Enterprise-Rent-A-Care for their personal use.

Free Flu Vaccines

Each year the Zoo offers free, on-site flu vaccinations to all full-time and regular part-time employees.

Free Admission and Parking

Free admission and parking privileges are provided to Non-Union Full-Time Employees and Union Full-Time Employees only and their immediate family members of BZC employees who have completed the required paperwork.

Free Admission to Other Cultural Institutions

The Zoo has reciprocal agreements with other major Chicagoland cultural institutions which allow employees and certain guests to receive free admission and/or parking pursuant to BZC's policy.

Free Notary Public Service

Several staff are commissioned Notary Publics and provide free notary services to BZC staff.

Freebie Table

Consistent with our conservation ethic, we have a "Freebie" table where staff can place unused/unwanted items that still have value for other staff members to claim. This has been a great way to recycle/upcycle by making unused items available to others.

Little Free Library: Take a Book. Share a Book.

The Zoo has a "Little Free Library" book exchange. If an employee sees a book they would like to read, they can take it, or they may donate a book they have finished. When they are done, they can return it to the Little Free Library or leave it at another Little Free Library location for others to enjoy.

Zoo Day Camp Discount

Zoo staff who register their child(ren) for Summer Camp at Brookfield Zoo Chicago receive a discounted price for a week of camp for each child registered. The discount is limited to immediate family members only (grandchildren included). Lunch and T-shirts are not discounted.

Zoo Discounts

Employee discounts are available on BZC gift shop and restaurant purchases, including 25 cent drinks when the Zoo-issued drink cup is used.

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Brookfield Zoo Chicago is open 363 days each year. Work schedules vary with each position. This position may require the ability to work a non-traditional schedule on-site that may include holidays, weekends, mornings and/or evenings.

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.

Other details

Job Function Professionals - NEC Pay Type Salary Min Hiring Rate $67,000.00

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