Zoo Jobs: Zoo Keeper and Aquarist Apprentice, Ectotherms

Zoo Keeper and Aquarist Apprentice, Ectotherms

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 unrivaled animal experts in our two zoos, our purpose is to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wild animals going extinct.

Role Profile

A new and exciting Keeper and Aquarist Apprenticeship within our Ectotherms section at Whipsnade Zoo, working with a range of fish, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates.

The Keeper and Aquarist Apprenticeship steered by ZSL has been created in collaboration with the Institute for Apprenticeships, BIAZA and over 25 top UK Zoos. This Apprenticeship will drive the Zoo Keeping profession in the further development of animal experts.

The Apprentice will typically spend 24 months on-programme (before the gateway and end point assessment) working towards the occupational standard, with a minimum of 20% off-the-job training. All apprentices will spend a minimum of 12 months on-programme. On completion of the Apprenticeship the individual can remain at ZSL as a permanent Zoo Keeper or Aquarist.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Assisting with the preparation of approved diets and carrying out the correct feeding procedures.
Cleaning and maintaining exhibits and other designated areas.
Assisting with record keeping via a Zoological Information Management System (ZIMS), including personal relevant observations of animal behaviour, health and welfare.
Assisting senior keepers, and other colleagues, with veterinary, training and other relevant animal related procedures.
Supporting positive visitor experiences by good customer service and professional visitor engagement.
Delivering and monitoring enhanced animal contact situations, including walkthrough exhibits and animal encounters.
Preparing a portfolio to support the EPA for the apprenticeship scheme.
To be committed to and complete all aspects of training related to the job and apprenticeship.
Person Specification
Knowledge of positive reinforcement training through proven experience in the management of trained exotic animals.
Knowledge of operant conditioning in zoo-based training programmes for demonstrations or husbandry behaviours
A precise and scientific approach to husbandry is required along with the ability to follow strict protocols.
Good communication skills, teamwork and experience of dealing with the public are essential.

Please note: Hours are an average 37.5 per week worked within an annual roster, which includes bank holidays and weekends

Benefit Package:

This role offers a competitive salary plus a comprehensive benefits package including 25 days holiday, joint contributory pension scheme (7% employer contribution), complimentary zoo tickets and more!

For a full Job Description, further details and to apply please click HERE.

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