Friday, May 19, 2017

Animal Presenter – Trainees


Animal Presenter – Trainees

Location:        RZSS, Edinburgh Zoo        Salary:    Competitive

The charity that owns both RZSS Edinburgh Zoo and RZSS Highland Wildlife Park – are looking for committed, compassionate and conservation-minded individuals to join our expert staff team.

RZSS aims to connect people with nature and safeguard species from extinction, a mission that sees us work both here in Scotland and in over 20 countries around the world. From inspiring the next generation about wildlife in our parks to protecting chimpanzees in the Ugandan rainforest; looking after some of the world’s most endangered species to saving the Scottish wildcat, RZSS is making a huge difference and we need your help to continue to grow.

The role
As a member of the Living Collection’s team, the successful candidates will be required to perform all duties to ensure the smooth running of the relevant section at Edinburgh Zoo, aiming to optimise, where necessary in conjunction with other departments, the quality of animal welfare and visitor experience.  The roles may involve all aspects of the presentations section, including shows, keeper experience, talks, panda tours and animal care, but the successful candidates are likely to spend the majority of their time on visitor experience elements of the role. They will also contribute to the development of the Society in achieving its Mission and Aims.

3 x Seasonal Animal Presenter Trainee
  1. a part-time (35 hours per week) fixed-term contract until the end of October 2017
  2. a part-time (21 hours per week) fixed term contract until the end of October 2017
  3. a variable hours contract until the end of October 2017

Who we are looking for
To operate effectively in this role, it is desirable you hold the Diploma in the Management of Zoo and Aquarium Animals or equivalent qualification or experience at SVQ 3 or equivalent level. Practical experience in a zoo or animal-related environment is also desirable and experience of working with a range of animal taxon groups would be advantageous. You should also have up-to-date basic knowledge and understanding of zoo legislation and best practice, along with a sound basis of practical knowledge and skills about good animal management including dietary knowledge. Proven success in animal training or an appropriate qualification in the use of positive reinforcement training would be beneficial.

You will be an excellent communicator, with strong presentation skills. You will be comfortable working as part of a team and will build effective relationships across the organisation. Customer service will be key to this role and you must have an excellent understanding of the principals involved and how to interact with the public to ensure a memorable experience.

These are fixed term contracts, starting with immediate effect until 31 Oct 2017.  The successful candidates must be able to work weekends.

Closing date:    Tuesday 30 May 2017.

For full information on how to apply, please visit the RZSS vacancy page and follow the instructions.

OUR MISSION        Connecting people with nature. Safeguarding species from extinction.

Registered charity number: SC004064





Peter Dickinson
Independent International Zoo Consultant
      

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