Job opportunities

Senior Keeper

We are looking to recruit a dedicated full time Senior Keeper to join the team at Banham Zoo (40 hours per week). This role supports the Team Leader and Deputy Team Leader in the day‑to‑day running of the section and contributes to maintaining the highest standards of animal care and team performance.

The successful candidate will deliver excellent animal welfare and husbandry, participate in training and enrichment programmes, and uphold consistent standards of communication, observation, and record keeping. A passion for working with a diverse range of species in a zoo environment is essential, as is confidence in engaging with the public and working effectively as part of a team.

 

Key aspects of the role include:

• Work responsibly, safely and efficiently around exotic animals.
• Monitor animal behaviour, health and enclosure security; promptly report concerns or required repairs to senior staff.
• Prepare diets and follow correct feeding procedures.
• Clean and maintain exhibits, including creating and implementing enrichment.
• Ensure all health & safety procedures and emergency protocols are followed at all times.
• Assist in developing and delivering positive reinforcement training and enrichment programmes.
• Communicate effectively with visitors to enhance their experience and promote ZSEA’s aims and values.

 

Person Specification:

Essential:

• Hoofstock experience.
• Significant paid experience working with animals in a zoo environment.
• Strong knowledge and practical experience of positive reinforcement training and modern husbandry techniques.
• Ability to manage, prioritise and delegate a varied workload.
• Proactive problem‑solving skills and the ability to use initiative.
• Strong teamwork, communication and observation skills.
• Familiarity with professional zoo associations such as BIAZA and EAZA.
• A relevant high‑level qualification (MSc, BSc, DMZAA or equivalent).
• Full, clean driving licence.
• Ability to work flexibly, including weekends, bank holidays and occasional out of hours support.

Desirable:

• Experience working with giraffe.
• Tractor and trailer driving experience.
• Telehandler ticket.
• Chainsaw ticket and digger driving tickets.