Job opportunities

Animal Keeper - Sea Lions

Job title: Animal Keeper – Sea lions

Location: Blair Drummond Safari & Adventure Park, FK9 4UR

Salary: From £25,100 p.a.

Benefits: Generous Employer Contribution Company Pension, Life Insurance, Staff Family Passes,  Annual Staff ‘Behind the Scenes Experience Voucher’, 24hr Employee Assistance Programme, 20% Staff Discount in Park, Free parking, Uniform, Support with Relocation (if required).

Working hours: 40 hours per week (10 days in 14)

The Company

Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park was opened to the public in 1970 and was, at the time, one of Britain’s first safari parks. We are now one of the most popular visitor attractions in Scotland. The Park has a strong focus on conservation, education and the local community. We also run a successful fundraising program for conservation “link to the wild”.

We are currently looking for an experienced and confident trainer to join our sea lion team, working with our five California sea lions and Humboldt penguins. This position is offered on a full time, permanent basis. Relocation assistance is available to the right candidate.

The Role

You will be part of the team responsible for the care, training, and all aspects of animal husbandry of our California sea lions and Humboldt penguins. Furthermore, the role will include daily maintenance of the life support system, presentations, cleaning, and environmental enrichment. Ensuring the safety of our visitors, staff and animals at all times are of key importance and ensuring that health & safety protocols are followed at all times.
 

Essential requirements

• Animal training experience of at least two years
• Demonstrable practical and theoretical experience of classical and operant conditioning
• Physically fit and hardworking
• Excellent observational skills
• Self-motivated and pro-active
• Demonstrable experience of following safe working protocols
• A current full driving licence

Desirable requirements

• Experience working with marine mammals
• Animal related qualification to HND level or above
• The zoo animal management qualification (DMZAA)
• Public presentation skills
• Demonstrable experience of implementing training programmes

Selection Process:

We will be reviewing candidates on a rolling basis.  Interviews will be held at the end of May/ begining of June 2024.  First round may be virtual to limit travel, followed by a trial day on site for short-listed candidates.