Job opportunities

Experienced Reptile Keeper

Role Purpose 

The Reptile Keeper is responsible for the management, husbandry, and welfare of Hamerton Zoo Park’s lower-order animal collection, including reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates. This role plays a key part in maintaining the highest standards of animal welfare, biosecurity, record-keeping, and public engagement, in line with current SSSMZP, BIAZA, and internal zoo standards. 

As a member of the animal team, the post holder will contribute to the smooth day-to-day operation of the zoo. 

 

Key Responsibilities 

Animal Care & Welfare 

• Carry out daily husbandry, feeding, observation, and monitoring of reptiles, amphibians, fish, and invertebrates, including venomous species, large snakes, crocodilians, and other specialist taxa. 

• Monitor animal health and behaviour, reporting concerns promptly and administering medications under veterinary guidance where required. 

• Provide appropriate, species-specific enrichment and contribute to ongoing improvements in animal welfare. 

• Assist with breeding programmes, animal movements, and habitat design as required. 

Enclosure & Collection Management 

• Maintain enclosures and associated planted areas to the highest welfare, hygiene, and presentation standards, across all locations on site. 

• Ensure all managed areas meet or exceed the standards and documentation required by the current SSSMZP and BIAZA guidelines. 

• Support effective feed preparation, storage, stock control, and deliveries. 

Records, Compliance & Professional Standards 

• Maintain thorough, accurate, and consistent records relating to animal care, health, breeding, and movements. 

• Work in full compliance with Hamerton Zoo Park policies, risk assessments, and the employee handbook. 

• Participate in inspections and audits as required. 

Teamwork, Supervision & Development 

• Provide appropriate supervision and support for work experience students and volunteers, in line with safeguarding policies and workplace values. 

• Assist with animal contact sessions when required, maintaining detailed knowledge of individual animals involved. 

Training, Learning & Development 

• Actively engage in ongoing training and professional development to maintain current knowledge of best-practice husbandry. 

• Proactively identify relevant training opportunities and present these to the Head Keeper for consideration. 

Public Engagement & Conservation 

• Engage with visitors through talks, informal interactions, and educational activities, promoting understanding of reptiles, conservation, and the zoo’s work. 

• Contribute to the zoo’s wider conservation, sustainability, and education objectives. 

General 

• Undertake any reasonable task requested by your supervisor in support of zoo operations.