Job opportunities

Senior Keeper (Hoofstock)

Senior Keeper (Hoofstock)

Salary: £25,145

Contracted Hours: 37.5 hours per week

Location: Bristol Zoo Project

Contract Type: Permanent

Bristol Zoological Society, the conservation and education charity that runs and operates Bristol Zoo Project (previously Wild Place Project), higher education programmes and conservation projects across the world, is recruiting a Senior Keeper (Hoofstock). This is an exciting opportunity to join the Animal team. This is a permanent full time position working 37.5 hours per week as part of the departmental rota, which includes working alternate weekends and some bank holidays. The role is based at our Bristol Zoo Project site working with our hoofstock collection comprising giraffes, zebra, eland, spotted deer and red river hogs.

If you would like the advert in an alternative format, or would like to talk about how we can adjust the interview process to best support you, please contact 

We are committed to employing from all areas of the community, we value equality and diversity across our workforce and aim to ensure our staff is reflective of the diversity of the community. In support of this commitment, we welcome applications from the Global Majority.

Bristol Zoological Society is currently planning our new zoo at our Bristol Zoo Project site Blackhorse Hill, Bristol BS10 7TP. The first animal phase of these plans will be our Central African Forest exhibit, which includes our new gorilla and mangabey enclosure and a crocodile and parrot enclosure. Future phases, will include brining in Black Rhino to the savannah area and to the return of okapi.

The successful applicant will have demonstrable practical experience working in a zoo environment. Knowledge of and experience with mammals preferably hoofstock is desirable.  Successful applicants must have either the Diploma in the Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals, or a relevant animal/zoology qualification such as BSc or MSc in biological sciences.

Applicants should have supervision and interpersonal skills with developed communication skills and experience with staff supervision. A full driving licence is also desirable for cross-site working. This role covers all aspects of modern-day zoo keeping including daily husbandry routines environmental enrichment, research, talks and guest experiences.  Familiarity with modern conservation focussed zoo management is desirable and having a strong understanding of the role of zoos in species conservation is important.

Bristol Zoological Society is a conservation charity with a new strategy in place to create a world-class Bristol Zoo with conservation and sustainability at its heart, the new Bristol Zoo Project will offer spacious, modern facilities, significant growth in our conservation and education work, and an innovative and exciting visitor experience. The role will help to realise our vision of saving wildlife together, and you will be involved in supporting our transformation programme – driving visitor numbers at Bristol Zoo Project and excitement as plans for the new Zoo progress. We know that everyone here at the Society can help us work alongside our communities, look after the environment, and contribute to our inclusive culture.

As a Disability Confident Employer if you identify yourself as disabled under the Equality Act 2010 definition and can demonstrate that you meet the essential criteria listed in the person specification, we will guarantee an interview.

Benefits include:

• 30 days of annual leave (Pro-rated, inclusive of bank hols) increasing with length of service
• Access to our company pension scheme
• Access to a range of resources to support your physical, mental and financial health, including access to our Employee Assistance Programme
• Death in service benefit (x3 salary)
• Cycle to work scheme
• Season ticket loans
• Other flexible benefits include gym discounts and access to a health cash plan
• Hybrid working for certain roles, to allow you to work where you work best - We’re happy to discuss flexible working
• Family friendly policies with enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption support
• Loyalty award after 5 years and every year subsequently
• Ongoing training and development opportunities, allowing you to reach your full potential
• Free onsite car park