Job opportunities

Job opportunities

Markus Wilder

Curator of Birds

Bristol Zoo Project

Bristol Zoo Project

South West Closing date for applications is: 22nd Mar 2024
Contact: HR ([email protected])
Sector: Animal Care
Type: Paid
Contract type: Full-time
Salary: £33,170

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 Curator of Birds. This is an exciting opportunity to join the Animal team.

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.

The successful applicant will have significant experience working in a zoo environment at a senior keeper level or above. Knowledge of and experience with birds is essential as well as wider taxonomic knowledge with hoofstock and other mammal species being desirable. Additionally, significant people management experience e.g. delegating tasks based on strengths and interests, managing colleague expectations, holding to account and developing the team is required. 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 excellent management and interpersonal skills with developed communication skills and experience at team leadership at a senior level. 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.

With a new strategy in place to create a world-class Bristol Zoo and 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

• Ongoing training and development opportunities, allowing you to reach your full potential

• Free on-site car park

To apply for this role please sign into our recruitment portal and upload your CV and cover letter. The closing date for applications is 22nd March 2024.

Diversity Statement

Our vision for the Society to be an employer of choice, that is inclusive and attracts and retains the most talented people, who all work together to sustain our future. As such we welcome applications from all sections of the community. Our employee lifecycle processes, including recruitment, are designed to prevent discrimination against our people regardless of gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, religion, ethnicity, age, disability status, race, or any other aspect which makes them unique.

Apply for this job:

Please apply using the link below

https://bristolzoo.org.uk/careers