Job opportunities

Lead Keeper - Bird Department

Full time, Permanent position

 

We currently have a vacancy for a Lead Keeper on one of our large and varied bird sections to assist with the daily care and management of species including Psittaciformes, Sphenisciformes, Ratites, Passerines, Galliformes and Columbiformes.

The role will involve supporting the Assistant Team Manager in the daily management of the section along with leading, training and working closely with other team members under the direction of the Team Manager to ensure the highest standards are met.

The successful candidate will provide extensive knowledge and proven expertise in bird husbandry and management with a wide variety of species within a zoological environment.

The Package

 

·        Full time, permanent contract

·        40 hours per week, worked 10 days out of 14, including weekends and Bank Holidays as rostered.

·        33 days annual leave

·        Salary £28,612.83 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

 

·        Have substantial experience working as an aviculturist in a zoological or conservation–breeding facility

·        Have an HND or degree level qualification in a zoological related science

·        Have a strong work ethic

·        Be able to demonstrate good leadership qualities

·        Be an enthusiastic, dynamic and motivated team player

·        Have outstanding observational skills and excellent attention to detail

·        Have a proven track record in delivering the highest standards of avian husbandry and exhibitory 

·        Have a thorough knowledge of avian conservation practices

·        Have a thorough knowledge of bird training techniques

·        Excellent communication skills.

·        Competency in the use of computers and basic software packages, including ZIMS software, would be advantageous.

·        A good understanding of risk assessments and safe operating procedures

 

This role may involve representing Chester Zoo and the team for media interviews and internal and external meetings workshops and conferences. Therefore, excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential.

A full clean UK driving licence is essential.

 

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.

 

 

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.