Job opportunities

Seasonal Animal Carer - 6 months Fixed Term Contract

The Wildheart Trust is a young charity currently in a period of exciting change. We have big goals for the future, and some incredible ground-breaking projects underway. A fixed term full-time vacancy has arisen within our Wildheart Animal Sanctuary animal team, based on the Isle of Wight, which will provide someone with an incredible opportunity to join us during this time. This role is seasonal and will be for a period of 6 months.

We are looking for someone with a broad range of interest in working with different species of animals. Previous animal experience is preferred but we will consider recently qualified applicants.

Animal carers are responsible for maintaining high standards of husbandry and care for the animals assigned to them. They are expected to follow set husbandry standards and be involved in all aspects of care for the animals including enrichment, training, weighing of the animals along with their normal welfare duties.

In return we can offer you an exceptionally varied, unique and rewarding role within a great team.  As part of your package, you will have uniform provided, enjoy free parking, and have free sanctuary admission for your household whilst working with us. Alongside this we have various Island business discounts, including ferry travel and leisure memberships.

General Function of the Position

To inspire and empower people, as per the mission of The Wildheart Trust by providing an exemplary visit experience to our visitors and offering educational insights.

To contribute to providing our animals with best welfare by monitoring their behaviour and ensuring their safety, and liaising with the animal care team when necessary.

To provide support to the animal care team where required.

Key Tasks

1.     Animal Management

To undertake daily animal husbandry including cleaning, feeding, training and enrichment in accordance with the section routines

·Reporting observed welfare, behavioural or veterinary concerns promptly to Animal Manager/Deputy Animal Manager 

Undertake and record animal observations as set out in record keeping policy

Prepare and present diets in line with agreed diet sheets

Keep all areas, including storage and off show areas to a high standard of hygiene and tidiness

2.     Exhibits

To keep exhibits and surrounding areas maintained to a very high standard of presentation

To report any maintenance or wear and tear to Animal Manager

To assist where instructed with pest control

Assist in department projects as required

3.     Conservation

Ensure you have a good working knowledge of the conservation work undertaken by the Wildheart Trust  

4.    Animal Experiences

Undertake unique animal experiences with visitors ensuring that they receive a one-in-a-lifetime encounter whilst adhering to sanctuary guidelines ensuring the safety of participants and animal welfare.

5.     Equipment

Use equipment such as a radio.  The equipment must be used and stored with due care and attention 

6.     Health and Safety

To comply with all health and safety requirements as per the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary health and safety Manual and site-specific risk assessments

Participate in animal escape drills and be aware of the emergency procedures

7.     Communications, education and public awareness 

 Participate in education, media and marketing initiatives as required

Engage with visitors informally during course of duties

 Engage with visitors formally through talks promoting The Wildheart Trust’s conservation aims and insights into the sanctuary’s animal collection

8.     Compliance and Best Practice

 Participate in Zoo licence inspections and other audits as required

 Learn and maintain understanding of departmental and other relevant sanctuary policies

Person Specification Details

Qualifications

Full UK Driving License

Experience

2 Years in a public facing role

1 Year Animal care experience 

Skills and Abilities

Ability to Learn

Shows a willingness to learn and use new processes 

Animal relations

Have a genuine affinity for animal sand interest in the natural world.

Ability to show kindness, consideration and empathy for animals 

Ability to Organise

Ability to keep good records

Interpersonal Relations

Interacts effectively with colleagues in order to advance the work of the sanctuary. Interactions are based on respect and an appreciation for people with varying backgrounds and viewpoints

Presentations

Can effectively prepare and deliver talks which are informative, accurate and engaging 

Professional / Technical Expertise

Demonstrates a high level of expertise in all phases of the job and forms opinions and conclusions which are technically sound and well founded

Time Management

Good timekeeping

Visitor Focused

Strong communication and people skills including a positive, friendly and approachable attitude at all times towards visitors to the sanctuary

Teamwork

Actively participates as a member of a team to move the team toward the completion of goals. Contributes actively and fully to team projects by working with colleagues collaboratively, working towards consensual solutions that enhance the output of the team. Accepts share of workload

Living the values

An understanding of the values and behaviour expected by the Wildheart Trust

Charitable outputs

An understanding of how this role supports the delivery of our charitable outputs.