Carnivore Intern

The Big Cat Sanctuary

Home to nearly 50 cats, The Big Cat Sanctuary (BCS) is a breeding and conservation centre for both big and small cat species, based in Kent. Routinely, the BCS is not open to the general public and access is only granted through pre-booked events and experiences.

We are currently recruiting for voluntary internships for a period of 6-12 months working predominantly with our keeping team. Although not open to the general public, there are experiences offered throughout the week, so flexibility is essential. The main role as an intern will be to assist the keeping team in their daily tasks, including attending to the daily husbandry requirements of the animal collection as well as delivering our selection of experiences, as directed by the Head Keeper (Ranger for a day, Photography Workshop, Overnight Lodge Tour, Big Cat Encounter)

All internships are offered on a voluntary basis and are therefore unpaid, although on-site subsidised accommodation can be provided, if required. The hours of work are 08.00-18.00 Mar-Oct and 08.00-17.00 Nov-Feb, 5 days a week. Please note, the Big Cat Sanctuary is not accessible by public transport.

Objectives of placement:

· To gain experience within an animal keeping department

· Gain training and further knowledge of a selection of carnivore species

· To apply own personal skills and improve upon them

Typical daily tasks may include:

· Assisting with daily husbandry such as meat preparation, enclosure cleaning and basic maintenance, providing enrichment etc.

· Daily recording of animal observations

· Carrying out basic training sessions with several species including cheetah, African lions and Amur leopards

· Visitor interaction (e.g. delivering tours and answering questions)

· Assisting Maintenance & Building and Front of House departments, as required

Essential Requirement:

· 18+ years old

· An animal science related qualification

· Previous animal-related work experience

· Good communication skills

· Flexible with regards to working hours and times

· Physically fit for the demands of the role

· Able to work as part of a team and independently

· Reliable and able to be trusted to work under safe working practices

To apply for the above position, please send a CV and covering letter to Lisa Pressland, Head of Human Resources, at lisa@thebigcatsanctuary.org “Internship Application” in the subject line and including in the email whether you are applying for 6 or 12 months and when you would be available to begin. Ideally, we are looking for our interns to start in either September 2020 or March 2021.

Closing Date: Sunday 19th July 2020 @ 5pm

Please be advised that we will only respond to those who have been short listed