Qualified Animal Keeper - Birds

Overview

The Zoological Society of London (ZSL), a charity founded in 1826, is a world-renowned centre of excellence for conservation science and applied conservation. ZSL’s mission is to promote and achieve the worldwide conservation of animals and their habitats. This is realised by carrying out field conservation and research in over 50 countries across the globe and through education and awareness-raising at our two zoos, ZSL London Zoo and ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, inspiring people to take conservation action.

Role Profile

The Zoological Society of London is looking for a Qualified Keeper on the Bird Section based at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo. The main purpose of the qualified keeper position is to manage day to day operational duties relating to animal husbandry and visitor interaction within the section. You will be responsible to the section Team Leader or other key senior animal department staff within the section. The off-exhibit bird breeding facilities at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo provides opportunities to work with many high-profile threatened species and contribute to captive breeding programmes for species such as wattle cranes and Javan green magpies. The successful candidate’s professional avicultural expertise will be developed to support this important ex-situ work as well as ZSL’s in-situ avian conservation programmes. The successful candidate will also be required to support the development of the planned expansion of on show bird exhibits at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Observing the behaviour, health and security of animals and reporting any problems to the team leader or senior staff.
Ensuring that conditions for the birds are of the highest standards and reporting any problems, including defects or repairs required to enclosures, to the senior staff on section and relevant departments required.
Assisting with the preparation of approved diets and carrying out the correct feeding procedures.
Cleaning and maintaining exhibits and designing enrichment devices.
Ensuring that safety and emergency procedures are followed at all times.
Supporting in the training and mentoring of less experienced staff.
Maintaining courteous and helpful relations with visitors and media.
Supporting broader ZSL lead events such as late evenings and specialist functions.

Person Specification

Extensive previous experience of aviculture in a zoo or equivalent environment.
Knowledge and experience with incubation and hand rearing.
A qualification in zoo animal management such as the DMZAA or equivalent level of work experience.
Good communication skills, enthusiasm, and an outgoing and friendly personality.
A full/clean driving license is essential.