Job opportunities

Deputy Section Manager – Elephants

We are looking for a Deputy Section Manager to join our Elephants team and assist in the daily care and husbandry needs of a wide range of species currently maintained in our collection.

Our award-winning concept in animal care ‘Project Elephant’ is Blackpool zoo’s long-term commitment to elephants. Focusing on a multi-faceted approach to the progressive care of the zoo’s Asian elephant herd, with a specific focus on their physiological and psychological wellbeing. Therefore the successful applicant would posses a diverse skillset in the management of elephants and be able to positively contribute to the successful development of a multi-generational herd.

The successful applicant will be a proven team player with an excellent knowledge of the zoological industry and the requirements needed to maintain and continuously improve the husbandry and welfare of the animal species under their care, specifically Elephants. You will be required to work with all species on your section in a safe and secure manner and will have excellent training skills using positive reinforcement methods.

As a Deputy Section Manager you will assist the Section Manager in supervising nine other animal keepers that report into this position, you will also manage the department in the absence of the Section Manager, reporting directly to the Animal Manager in their absence.

In addition to excellent husbandry skills, candidates should already have experience of staff management as this is essential to this role, this is an excellent opportunity for anyone looking to progress in their career.

You will need to be hard working, physically fit, enthusiastic, and reliable. You should possess the Diploma in The Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals (DMZAA) or an equivalent and have a minimum of seven years keeping experience (ideally five years of which should be in senior position) a full valid driving licence is also essential.

Previous experience supervising staff and working with a range of category 1 animals including carnivores would be an advantage.

Alongside the Elephants, other animals within this section also include carnivores and hoof stock.

Accommodation may be available for the successful candidate.