Job opportunities

Zoo Duty Manager

Hobbledown Heath is more than just a visitor attraction – it’s an immersive world of adventure, imagination, and incredible animals. Located in Hounslow, West London, our site combines a vibrant zoological collection with themed play areas, educational experiences, and interactive guest encounters. We’re proud members of BIAZA, NFAN, and BALAI, and we’re passionate about delivering exceptional standards of animal care and guest service across everything we do.

As part of the wider Escapade Group, we aim to make a lasting impact on both people and animals through creativity, quality, and hands-on learning.

About the Role

We are looking for an experienced, motivated, and hands-on Zoo Duty Manager to join our Animal Team. This is a key operational leadership role that focuses on working alongside the team, setting clear standards, and leading by example in all aspects of animal care, team development, and guest experience.

The role requires a strong presence on the ground, but also includes dedicated time for essential administrative tasks, including record-keeping, training documentation, and communication with senior management.

In the absence of the Group Zoo Operations Manager, you will be the lead contact for all zoo-related operations on site – ensuring that routines run smoothly, welfare is prioritised, and our guests experience something unforgettable.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead daily operations across the zoo, working alongside keepers to maintain
  high standards of husbandry, welfare, and safety.

• Be a positive role model, setting clear expectations and supporting team members in meeting them.

• Deliver engaging public talks and support a range of animal encounters and experiences.

• Provide on-the-job training, mentorship, and feedback to help build team confidence and capability.

• Maintain accurate records, oversee animal health monitoring, and ensure regulatory compliance.

• Support the Group Zoo Operations Manager with inspections, staff development, and strategic planning.

• Champion our values, maintain excellent presentation standards, and help drive continuous improvement in all areas of the animal department.

• Responsible for the work experience and volunteer programme including recruitment, onboarding and training.

 

About You

We’re looking for someone who is:

• Passionate about animal care and education, with a proactive and collaborative leadership style.

• Experienced in zoo, Farm Parks or exotic animal care, ideally with a minimum of two years paid experience.

• Confident working with mixed taxa and a strong understanding of animal welfare needs.

• Skilled in communication, able to motivate teams and handle both guest and team interactions professionally.

• Comfortable using record-keeping systems (e.g., ZIMS) and familiar with licensing standards.

• Flexible, organised, and able to juggle operational tasks with strategic thinking.

 

Benefits

• 20 Free admission tickets to all Escapade Group sites annually

• Ongoing training and CPD opportunities

• Free
  lunch provided on shift