Keeper and Aquarist Apprentice

Whipsnade Zoo

About Us

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, our purpose is to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wild animals going extinct.

Role Profile
An exciting Keeper and Aquarist Apprenticeship within our Deer & Antelope section at Whipsnade Zoo has come up.

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 Zookeeper or Aquarist.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Working with a range of deer and antelope species, Inc. larger ungulates such as camels, yak, gaur, Przewalski’s horse.
Preparing 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.
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.
Being trained by a senior member of the team in positive reinforcement training.

Person Specification

Being able to work in a large team.
Attention to detail and the ability to follow strict protocols.
Good communication skills, teamwork, and experience of dealing with the public are essential.
This is a physically demanding position, working outside in all weather conditions.

Please note: The position is located at Whipsnade Zoo, Dunstable and working 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 (Pro-rata), stakeholder pension where the employer minimum contribution is 7%, complimentary zoo tickets and more.

Applicants will need to upload their CV and covering letter (detailing relevant experience and skills, stating why they want the position and including details of availability) and can do this by clicking the "Apply for this jobonline" button. If you have any queries regarding this position or when applying through the system, please contact Human Resources at hr@zsl.org.

Closing date for applications: Midnight (23:59) Sunday 13th December 2020.

The Zoological Society of London is a charity registered in England and Wales: no. 208728.