Job opportunities

Zoo Host

We are looking for an energetic and enthusiastic Zoo Host to join the team at Hobbledown Epsom, one of our flagship attractions.

This is an entry-level position. However, a genuine interest in animals and zoos is essential. Previous volunteering experience or a relevant qualification (completed or in progress) would be advantageous.

This is primarily a guest-focused role, delivering engaging animal experiences and educational sessions. While this is not a keeper position, there may be occasional husbandry tasks during quieter periods or when operationally required.

Full training will be provided. Due to the public-facing nature of the role, successful candidates must be confident speaking in front of groups and interacting with visitors of all ages.

The seasonal contract runs from March to November, with the majority of shifts taking place on weekends and during school holidays.

 

1. Guest Experiences

• Deliver engaging public talks and answer visitor questions about the animals.

• Deliver curriculum-based school sessions using pre-written lesson plans.

• Lead and support close-up animal experiences, including Junior Zookeeper for a Day.

• Supervise animal walkthrough areas, ensuring both visitor and animal safety while maintaining a positive guest experience.

 

2. Customer Service

• Act as a welcoming and knowledgeable point of contact for visitors.

• Provide directions and general assistance across the attraction.

• Handle visitor queries professionally, escalating issues when required.

• Report guest feedback, complaints, or incidents to the Assistant Zoo Manager or Group Zoo Operations Manager.

• Follow procedures for accidents and first aid incidents.

 

3. Presentation & Standards

• Maintain clean, safe, and well-presented enclosures and walkthrough areas.

• Uphold high standards of cleanliness in public-facing animal areas.

• Safely dispose of animal waste and follow COSHH guidelines when using cleaning materials.

 

4. Operational Procedures

• Complete opening and closing checklists accurately.

• Prepare and deliver animal diets in line with written diet sheets.

• Clean enclosures and deliver enrichment activities following approved protocols.

• Carry out additional tasks as directed by management.

 

5. Animal Care (Support Duties)

• Assist with daily care, feeding, and cleaning of assigned animals when required.

• Monitor animal behaviour, health, and welfare, reporting concerns promptly.

• Support enrichment and training activities under management supervision.

 

6. Health & Safety

• Follow all company Health & Safety policies and safe working practices.

• Report hazards, accidents, or near misses immediately.

• Maintain high hygiene standards in all working areas.

 

7. Performance & Development

• Maintain professionalism and confidentiality at all times.

• Participate in training and development opportunities.

• Work collaboratively and communicate clearly across departments.

 

8. Key Performance Indicators

• Guest feedback and online reviews (TripAdvisor, Facebook, Google).

• Zoo inspection and audit outcomes.

• Compliance with opening and closing procedures.

 

Candidate Profile

• A genuine passion for animal welfare and guest engagement.

• Level 3 Diploma in Animal Care (or equivalent), or relevant paid/voluntary experience (advantageous).

• Previous customer service or public speaking experience (advantageous).

• Availability to work weekends and school holidays

 

About us

Escapade Group Limited operates the ultimate indoor and outdoor adventure parks. Currently home to three exciting brands — Hobbledown, Kidspace, and Gripped — across five UK sites, the business has ambitious plans for continued growth and expansion.

Our portfolio includes Hobbledown Adventure Farm Park & Zoo in Epsom, Hobbledown Heath (opened in 2022) alongside Gripped, the South’s best adrenaline park, and two incredible Kidspace indoor play and party venues in Croydon and Romford.

Together, we welcome over 900,000 visitors each year and host more than 7,000 birthday parties annually. In April 2023, we proudly added Watermouth Family Theme Park & Castle to our collection — taking our visitor numbers to over 1 million guests per year.