Job opportunities

Zookeeper - Large Hoofstock

Purpose of the role:

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the large Hoofstock Team at Whipsnade Zoo as a Zookeeper! In this role, you’ll play a key part in providing exceptional animal husbandry and welfare, ensuring the highest standards of care in line with industry best practices.

The section is home to an incredible collection of species, including white rhinos, reticulated giraffes, mountain bongos, and pygmy hippos. As part of a dynamic and passionate team, you’ll contribute to advancing animal care, management, and welfare, while also having the opportunity to develop your skills and reach your full potential in a world-class zoological setting.

Key responsibilities:  

• Animal Care & Feeding: Prepare approved diets and carry out feeding procedures to ensure optimal animal nutrition.
• Exhibit & Equipment Maintenance: Maintain the highest hygiene standards by cleaning and upkeeping exhibits, equipment, and designated areas.
• Husbandry & Welfare Development: Contribute to improving animal welfare by helping to design innovative, enriching, and naturalistic enclosures with the team.
• Animal Observation & Reporting: Monitor animal behaviour, health, and security, reporting any concerns to Lead Keepers, the Team Leader, or the Section Manager.
• Training & Enrichment: Assist in developing and implementing animal training and enrichment programmes to enhance animal well-being.
• Veterinary Support: Administer veterinary treatments under the guidance of the Veterinary Team.
• Visitor Engagement: Deliver engaging talks and demonstrations, creating an informative and memorable experience for visitors.
• Record Keeping: Accurately enter data into animal records, daily record sheets, and the ZIMS database to ensure comprehensive documentation.

About You:

• Passionate about animal care and thrive in a team environment, bringing enthusiasm and dedication to everything you do.
• Strong communication skills, allowing you to engage effectively with colleagues and visitors alike.
• Successfully completed the Zookeeper and Aquarist Apprenticeship Programme or hold a Diploma in the Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals (DMZAA).
• Hands-on experience working with zoo animals, ideally Hoofstock.
• A full UK driving licence, enabling you to carry out duties across the site efficiently.

This role is subject to standard pre-employment checks, including the candidate's right to work in the UK.

We strongly encourage applications from all backgrounds and celebrate the value of having a team of employees with diverse skills, experiences, and heritage. We are committed to ensuring our teams can bring their authentic selves to work without fear of discrimination. ZSL has active equality networks for our staff with lived experience and those who provide active allyship in Race and Culture, Team Pride, Disability Network, and Menopause Network, complemented by our strategic EDI Steering Group.