Job opportunities

Zookeeper - Predators and Primates

Purpose of the role:

ZSL is looking for a dedicated Zoo Keeper to join the Predator and Primate section at London Zoo. This exciting role involves the day-to-day care and husbandry of a diverse and captivating collection, including Asiatic lions, African wild dogs, Sumatran tigers, Asian short-clawed otters, Indian mongoose, western lowland gorillas, and a range of smaller Old and New World primates.

We are seeking someone with a genuine passion for working with a wide variety of species in a zoo environment, and proven experience with high-security animals is essential. As a Zookeeper you will uphold the highest standards of animal welfare, contribute to enclosure maintenance and redevelopment, support training and enrichment programmes, and value the importance of meticulous daily observations, clear communication, and accurate record-keeping.

ZSL’s zoos operate 7 days a week. This position is offered at 37.5 hours per week, worked across a rota that includes weekends and bank holidays. 

 Key responsibilities:  

• Animal Monitoring: Observe the behaviour, health, and security of animals, and promptly report any issues to the Team Leader or Section Manager, including defects or repairs needed to enclosures and notifying relevant departments.
• Training and Enrichment: Assist in developing and implementing training and enrichment programmes on a regular basis.
• Animal Welfare: Adhere to the highest industry standards of zoo husbandry and welfare.
• Exhibit Maintenance: Clean and maintain exhibits and other designated areas.
• Feeding and Nutrition: Assist with the preparation of approved diets and carry out correct feeding procedures.
• Public Engagement: Be actively involved in engaging with visitors, including delivering talks and demonstrations.
• Walkthrough Supervision: Supervise walkthroughs with primate species when required.
• Safe Working Practices: Work in a responsible, safe, and efficient manner around high-security animals.

About You:

• Qualified in a relevant field at university level and/or diploma in the DMZAA Keeper’s course or equivalent work experience.
• Proven practical experience of animal management with a range of exotic species.
• Have strong attention to detail and safe working practices with high security CAT1A species.
• Passion to work on evolving husbandry management within zoological collections to include positive re-enforcement training for behavioural management and varied methods of enrichment for a range of species.
• A reliable and positive influence on section and who works well in a team environment.

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.