Zoo Jobs: Voluntary Keeper Internships

Friday, February 3, 2017

Voluntary Keeper Internships

Voluntary Keeper Internships

Closing date for applications 1st March 2017

Shaldon Wildlife Trust is a small zoo on the Devon coast. Set in an acre of woodland, we are the smallest member of BIAZA and EAZA. Despite this we are active members of the zoo community and support conservation projects all over the word. Over the years we have gained a great deal of expertise in the breeding of many species, particularly small primates, and are regarded highly in this field.

We are currently advertising for voluntary internships for a period of 9-12 months working with our keeping department. Shaldon Wildlife Trust is open every day and the placements will be full time i.e. a five day working week including some weekends. The main role of the keeping interns will be to attend the husbandry requirements of the animal collection as directed by the Head Keeper in charge.

All internships are purely voluntary and as such it is with regret that Shaldon Wildlife Trust cannot provide any financial support or expenses to those wishing to apply for these positions. To ensure that interns are provided with a valuable experience; a training agreement will be completed and reviewed regularly and a training record will be provided upon completion of the placement.

Objectives of the placement

To gain experience and understanding of the work of a zoo animal keeping department.
To apply own personal skills and take ownership of a series of tasks and/or a research project.
To reflect on training and experience throughout the placement.

Anticipated tasks/training provided

Assisting with daily animal husbandry e.g. feeding, cleaning, enrichment provision, enclosure modification etc.
Observations of animals and recording of relevant information.
Training in basic research methods.
Visitor interaction e.g. answering visitor questions in a polite and sensitive manner.
Assisting with student supervision at the direction of the head keeper.
Training in animal-management related computer software.
Training in all aspects of the company’s code of practice.

Skills Required

A qualification or enrolment on an animal science related discipline would be desirable.
Previous animal-related work experience.
Good communication skills.
Adaptable to different working environments.
Able to work in a team and independently.
Physically fit for the demands of the post.