Zoo Jobs: Seasonal Keeper Aquarium (Full-Time / Seasonal)

Seasonal Keeper Aquarium (Full-Time / Seasonal)

Overview

We’re ZSL, an international conservation charity. Our vision is a world where wildlife thrives and we’re working every day to achieve this. From investigating the health threats facing animals, to helping people and wildlife live alongside each other, we are committed to bringing wildlife back from the brink of extinction. Through the work of our pioneering scientists, our dedicated conservationists and our unrivalled animal experts in our two zoos, we guide and enable others in the UK and all across the world. Inspiring, informing, empowering – working for wildlife.

Role Profile

ZSL is looking for a Seasonal Keeper in our Aquarium department. The successful candidate will be expected to ensure high standards of animal welfare and animal husbandry are carried out daily. Keepers are required to make daily checks and keep records of animal health and behaviour and report to senior members of the team. Good communication skills and experience of dealing with the public is essential, together with the ability to work effectively within a team.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

· Assisting as instructed with all aspects of animal husbandry on a daily basis.
· Assisting, under instruction, with the preparation of approved diets and carrying out correct feeding procedures.
· Maintain clean and well-organised working areas while following agreed working protocols.
· Ensuring that safety and emergency procedures are followed at all times.
· Maintaining courteous and helpful relations with visitors.
· Reporting any animal health issues, equipment defects or repairs required to the Team Leader or other senior staff in a timely fashion
· Ensuring that activities undertaken are recorded accurately and in good time via the systems in place.
· Assisting in various projects related to animal management as directed by senior animal management staff.

Person Specification

· Practical experience of working as an aquarist within the zoo and aquarium industry or aquatic trade.
· Good observation skills to monitor animal welfare and raise any concern to a senior member of staff.
· Good concentration and discipline to follow specific protocols in place when dealing with sensitive animals such as corals or delicate fish species.
· Demonstrate good communication skills and actively participate during section meetings.
· Have high standards of cleanliness and tidiness.
· Demonstrate attention to detail in order to achieve high standards of visitor experience.
· Be a self-starter, demonstrating initiative and a pro-active approach to completing tasks beneficial to the section/department.