Zoo Jobs: Qualified Wildlife Park Ranger

Qualified Wildlife Park Ranger

Jimmy's Farm & Wildlife Park

ABOUT US:

Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park built it’s foundations on the conservation of domestic British rare breeds in conjunction with the Rare Breeds Survival Trust. We rebranded as a wildlife park three years ago, taking in a wider range of exotics such as tapirs, crocodiles and camels. With big plans for the future as the collection grows more towards this kind of attraction, we’re looking to hire keen experienced rangers that are able to push their sections to the next level and that want to share the good life here with us.

ROLE PROFILE:

With this position, we’re looking for someone that has it all. The section is diverse (a range of reptiles including crocodiles, birds, raptors, a butterfly house containing various invertebrates, as well as raccoons, coatis, skunks, wallabies & emus), and we need a ranger that has working knowledge of all their husbandry, handling and illnesses. The successful applicant must also be handy…able to build, mend and use a wide range of power tools. Because we are a small team, we handle all maintenance jobs in house. Therefore all rangers are also expected to roll their sleeves up and get involved with some of the more undesirable jobs (i.e. cleaning toilets, emptying bins and occasionally unblocking drains). The upside of this is that you’ll gain so many new skills and experience that you never realised would be possible, thereby expanding your CV and furthering your employability.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

· Work in a safe, responsible and efficient manor around high security animals.

· Observing the behaviour, health and security of animals and reporting any issues to the management, ensuring that conditions for animals are of the highest standards and reporting any problems, including defects or repairs required to enclosures.

· Assisting with the research and 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 adhered to at all times.

· Assist and develop training and enrichment programmes for animals using positive reinforcement.

· Supporting in the mentoring of work experience volunteers.

· Communicate effectively with the public to increase their satisfaction and support the Jimmy’s Farm vision. This includes giving talks over a microphone, animal experiences and hosting birthday parties.

ESSENTIALS:

· Proven practical experience of animal management with a range of exotics focusing on reptiles, invertebrates and birds.

· Have strong attention to detail and a forward thinking vision on how to progress the section.

· Knowledge of techniques used to handle specific animals should veterinary procedures be required.

· Be able to demonstrate initiative with a pro-active approach to completing tasks beneficial to the section without always waiting to be asked.

· The common sense and level-headedness required to be trusted in working with dangerous animals (i.e. crocodiles).

· To have achieved at least a level 3 qualification in Animal Management or equivalent in a related field.

· To have a full, clean driving license and your own transport.

DESIRABLES:

· The ability to use power tools safely and have a proven record of building/maintaining enclosures.

· To be able to administer medications prescribed by the vet (inc injectables).

· To have experience of conducting or assisting with bird of prey displays.

PLEASE NOTE:

This is a full-time permanent with a probationary period of one year to make sure we’re the perfect fit for each other, beginning on 1st October. Flexible working is required which will include weekends, bank holidays and occasional out of hours assistance. Closing date for applications is 26th August, but interviews will be held throughout August as we go along, so early applications are most welcome.

To apply, please send a CV, cover letter and photos of any of your builds/enrichments etc to headkeeper@jimmysfarm.com, and please also copy in stevie@jimmysfarm.com

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