Job opportunities

Animal Keeper

Overview
The role of Animal Keeper is vital for the care and management of animals in a zoological setting. Animal keepers are responsible for ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of a diverse range of species while providing educational experiences for the public. This position requires a combination of practical animal care skills, scientific knowledge, and a passion for wildlife conservation.

Responsibilities

• Provide daily care for animals, including feeding, cleaning enclosures, and monitoring health.
• Conduct behavioural observations to assess animal well-being and report any concerns to the Head of Animals.
• Assist in the preparation and administration of medications as directed by veterinary professionals.
• Maintain detailed records of animal behaviour, health status, and dietary needs.
• Engage with visitors to educate them about the animals and conservation efforts.
• Participate in enrichment activities to promote natural behaviours in animals.
• Collaborate with team members to ensure high standards of animal husbandry and facility maintenance.
• Any other duties as reasonably required to meet the business needs and requirements.

Skills & Qualifications

• Proficiency in aseptic technique to maintain cleanliness and prevent contamination in animal care settings.
• Knowledge of biochemistry as it relates to animal health and nutrition.
• Understanding of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) principles as they apply to food preparation and medication administration within a zoo context.
• City and Guilds Level 1&2 in Animal Care (Minimum).
• Zim's knowledge desirable.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Good knowledge of animal husbandry and welfare standards.
• Knowledge and understanding of health and safety regulations.
• An understanding of animal training.

This position offers an exciting opportunity for individuals passionate about animals, wildlife care and conservation. Candidates should be prepared to work in various weather conditions and be committed to the highest standards of animal welfare.

These positions will start as soon as possible and run until November 2025, applicants must be available to work weekends and school holidays.

Positions will be on a zero hour, fixed term contract and meet the national living wage.

Successful candidates will be asked to attend an informal interview and will be required to take a multiple-choice health & safety questionnaire during the interview.

The job offer is subject to taking and passing a level 2 health & safety at work test on appointment, failure may result in the job offer being withdrawn.

Hours of work

The hours of work will be conditional on the business requirements & the contract will be conditional on your agreement to work flexible hours or no hours if necessary.

Hours/Days will vary between the centres opening and closing times of 8am-6pm Monday – Sunday, which includes regular weekends and Bank holidays, working on a rota basis.

(Please note: these times are subject to change, if required to meet the business needs during high and low season)

Pay

National Living Wage

Person Specification

• Dedication to high animal welfare standards
• Willingness to work in adverse weather conditions
• Ability to work alone and act on your own initiative, as required
• Good communication skills with the confidence to deliver presentations
• Willingness to learn and take instruction
• Flexible working
• Good interpersonal skills
• Communication skills
• Work ethic
• Eager and willing to add to knowledge base and skills
• Good problem-solving skills

Interview

All Cv's and cover notes will be evaluated and suitable candidates will be invited for interview.

Please note that you may be required to attend 3 consecutive trial days.

2 x References will be required post job offer.

Job Types: Fixed term contract, Zero hours contract

Contract length: 6 months