Job opportunities

Zoo Keeper

Position Details:

Position: Zookeeper (Hoofstock ,Permanent, Full-time)

Salary: £30,528 (Inclusive of London weighting and weekend enhancement)

Location: ZSL London Zoo 

 

Overview of the Role

ZSL is seeking a Zoo Keeper to work on the Hoofstock section at London Zoo. The role will involve the day-to-day husbandry of 17 different mammal species including Giraffes, Okapis, Babirusa, Camel, Pygmy hippo and Zebra. The successful candidate will be expected to deliver high standards of animal welfare and husbandry, set up and manage training and enrichment programs, respect the importance of daily observations, communication and record keeping and actively engage in research and dissemination to the wider zoo community. Applicants must have hoof stock experience in a zoo environment and must be passionate about pushing the boundaries of hoof stock husbandry to constantly improve welfare.  Experience of dealing with the public is essential, together with the ability to work effectively within a large team. Working hours are 37.5 per week, worked within a roster which includes regular weekends so flexibility regarding hours is crucial.

 

Key Responsibilities

• Observe the behaviour, health and security of animals and report any problems to the Team Leader or manager including defects or repairs required to enclosures and relevant departments required to support work needed.
• Assist & develop training and enrichment programs on a regular basis.
• Adhere to the highest industry standards of zoo husbandry and welfare.
• Clean and maintain exhibits and other designated areas.
• Assist with the preparation of approved diets and carrying out the correct feeding procedures.
• Communicate efficiently with public to increase public satisfaction and support the ZSL mission.
• Complete and engage with research projects.
• Be actively involved in public engagement including giving talks and demonstrations.

 

The ideal candidate will:

• Proven practical experience of animal management with hoof stock.
• Passion to work on evolving husbandry management within zoological collections to include positive re-enforcement training for behavioural management and varied methods of enrichment for a range of species.
• Knowledge of techniques used to handle specific animals should veterinary procedures be required.
• Be able to demonstrate initiative and a pro-active approach to completing tasks beneficial to the section/department without always waiting to be asked.
• Be a positive influence on section and work well in a team environment.
• Have a qualification in a relevant field at university level and/or diploma in the DZMAA Keeper’s course/ keeper apprenticeship or equivalent work experienc

 

We strongly encourage applications from all backgrounds and celebrate the value of having a team of employees with diverse skills, experiences, and heritage. We are committed to ensuring our teams can bring their authentic selves to work without fear of discrimination. ZSL has active equality networks for our staff with lived experience and those who provide active allyship in Race and Culture, Team Pride, Disability Network, and Menopause Network, complemented by our strategic EDI Steering Group.

 

About Us

We’re ZSL, an international conservation charity. Through our unrivalled animal experts in our two zoos (London Zoo and Whipsnade Zoo), the work of our pioneering scientists, our dedicated conservationists, our purpose is to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wild animals going extinct. Our vision is a world where wildlife thrives and we’re working every day to achieve this. From investigating the health threats facing animals, to helping people and wildlife live alongside each other, we are committed to bringing wildlife back from the brink of extinction.

 

What do we offer?

At ZSL, we are proud of our approach to employee benefits. Our benefits include:

• Our vision and purpose - you’ll work alongside colleagues who are passionate about science-led conservation, knowing that you will help us to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wildlife going extinct
• Pension scheme - we offer a generous pension scheme with up to 12% contributory pension.
• Flexible working – talk to us about your flexible working requirements and we will do everything we can to make sure you work in a way that suits you
• Holidays – 25 days annual leave allowance, plus UK bank holidays
• Wellbeing – access to a blended programme of wellbeing initiatives, including confidential access to our 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
• Complimentary tickets – annual allocation of Whipsnade Zoo and London Zoo tickets, with a 30% discount in online and retail shops
• Cycle2Work - our cycle to work scheme enables you to lease a bicycle
• Season ticket loan - we offer an interest free loan to buy a season ticket for travel between home and work
• Family friendly policies – we offer enhanced maternity and paternity packages