Job opportunities

Keeper - Primates 18 Month Fixed Term

We are Chester Zoo, and for over 90 years we’ve been a leading conservation and education charity, and an amazing, award-winning visitor attraction.
We’re also a team of passionate, talented, enthusiastic and expert people, doing everything we can to prevent extinction, from caring for animals to discovering new conservation ideas, and giving our visitors an inspirational day out.

We work hard because we love animals, we care about nature, we love Chester Zoo and despite all the recent challenges thrown at us, we still want to be the best zoo in the world! If you think you can help us to achieve that, then we’d love to hear from you.
We currently have an exciting opportunity for a Keeper in our Primates team, working in a work setting like no other! 

The Role:
The post will involve the daily care and management of a variety of primate species ranging from Orangutan and Gibbons, to smaller species such as Lemurs, Marmosets and Tamarins, therefore experience working with these species is required.   
Chester Zoo aims to set a benchmark for animal welfare and the successful candidate must be able to deliver an excellent level of animal husbandry, care and welfare for the assigned mammals; ensuring that all enclosures and facilities are maintained to the highest possible standards.  

The successful candidate will have:

• A HND or degree level qualification in a zoological related science or equivalent experience
• Proven experience in the care and management of a wide variety of primate species, as well as the highest standards of exhibitry
• Outstanding observational skills with an excellent attention to detail
• Experience working within strict Safe Working Practices
• Confidence in and around deep water and be able to work at heights
• A full driving licence valid in the UK

It would be advantageous:

• To be competent in the use of computers and basic software packages, including ZIMS software, in order to maintain accurate records. 
• To have experience of using power and hand tools, particularly when cutting grass and pruning in order to maintain animal enclosures.  
• To have experience of implementing guest experiences to a very high standard
   

The package:

• Contract – Full time- Fixed term (Mid June start) 18 month Contract
• 40 hours per week 
• Salary of £24,632.63
• 33 days annual leave per year
• Staff pass so that you can visit the zoo during your time off plus multiple complimentary tickets for your friends and family
• Cycle to work scheme
• Healthcare plan and employee assistance programme
• Discounted gym membership
• Discounts on cinema tickets, restaurants, high street shops and more via Perks
• Pension scheme with generous employer contributions of up to 9%
• Excellent training and career progression opportunities

Shortlisting of applications and interviews for the role will take place while the advert is live; the advert will close once the successful candidate is found. Candidates are therefore encouraged to submit applications as soon as possible.