Job opportunities

Birds Keeper

Wild Planet Trust is a registered education, scientific and conservation charity established in 1957 and based in Devon, UK. We own two zoos in south west England, plus two local nature reserves and a National Nature Reserve. We support conservation in the United Kingdom and overseas using funds generated by the people who visit the zoos and the expertise and dedication of our staff. 

Paignton Zoo first opened its doors as the Torbay Zoological Gardens in 1923. Over 100 years later, our site, and work, has grown considerably and we are now one of the South West’s largest conservation organisations and top visitor attractions. There are over 230 species of animal that call Paignton Zoo home. As well as being a zoo, we’re also an award winning botanical garden with over 4,000 species on record. 

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Keeper to join our Bird team. This is a full-time, permanent role working 38.75 hours over 5 days over a 7-day rota, including weekends and bank holidays. The salary for this role is £25,167.35 - £26,698.75 per annum (Experience related scale)

You will be responsible for the hands-on day-to-day husbandry of a large and diverse collection of birds, focusing on animal welfare, biosecurity, record keeping and ensuring that exhibits are maintained to the highest standards.

You will have at least 2 years of prior experience working with bird species in a zoological collection or similar establishment. You will have a broad knowledge of bird husbandry practices and experience in the handling and restraint of a range of bird species. You will have good observation skills and attention to detail is essential for the monitoring of animal health and the welfare of the collection as well as a working knowledge of ZIMs and record keeping skills. You must be highly motivated with a positive outlook and the willingness to adapt to an ever-changing department.

 

·         33 days paid holiday pro-rata (inclusive of Bank Holidays) 

·         Branded uniform provided (as required)

          Relevant internal and external training provided including First Aid and Mental Health First              Aid

·         Free entry to our zoos for staff and family 

·         Discounts in our Catering and Retail outlets (as applicable) 

·         Free staff parking 

·         Employee Assistance Programme 

·         Opportunities to join our Firearms team (subject to conditions)

We are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.