Job opportunities

Keeper - Rhinos

This is a key role working as part of our professional team based on the rhino section. For the right candidate this offers a great opportunity to work with a variety of species including but not limited to; Eastern black rhinoceros, Greater one horned rhinos, Philippine spotted deer, Roan antelope, Grevy zebras and Indonesian cattle.

As a keeper on the rhino team you will:

• Be responsible for ensuring the highest levels of animal husbandry, care and welfare for a wide variety of species that have specialised requirements and needs.
• Be responsible for ensuring enclosures and facilities are maintained to the highest possible standards.
• Be able to work independently but also as part of a highly motivated team.
• Assist with the training and handling of animals, assisting veterinary staff with procedures and administering medication with relevant after care.
• Have the ability to deliver memorable and informative guest experiences.

What makes Chester Zoo a great place to work?

As the UK’s biggest and best zoo, we have ambitious goals, exciting plans, and there’s always lots going on here. We’re an inclusive and diverse organisation, made up of nearly 500 permanent and 500 seasonal team members, and we know how important it is to invest in our colleagues to help boost their career development.

 The Package

•  Full time, permanent contract
• 40 hours per week, worked on a rota basis including weekends and bank holidays.
• 33 days annual leave
• Salary £26,702.81 per annum
• Staff pass so you can visit the zoo during your time off plus a number of complimentary tickets for your family and friends.
• Access to healthcare plan
• 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%

 Our Requirements – Keeper, Rhinos

•  A HND or degree level qualification in a zoological related science or equivalent experience
• Proven experience in the care and management of a variety of hoof stock species in a zoo or safari park setting, as well as the highest standards of enclosure management.
• Outstanding observational skills with excellent attention to detail
• Experience creating appropriate environments for animals
• Experience of working within strict Safe Working Practices

 Although not essential, the following would be desirable:

• Experience around delivering animal experiences
• Experience working with rhinos or category one species.
• Competency in the use of computers and basic software packages, including ZIMS software, would be advantageous for this role in order to maintain accurate records 

More About Us

 We’re not just an amazing, award-winning visitor attraction that’s home to 20,000 incredible animals. We’re not just the UK’s most popular zoo. We’re a major wildlife charity that’s committed to the recovery of endangered species, globally. And, as the world faces an extinction crisis, we’re making a hugely significant contribution to conservation at a time when it’s needed most. We are Chester Zoo and we prevent extinction.