Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Head Keeper (maternity cover)


Head Keeper (maternity cover)

at Banham Zoo



About the role:

The successful candidate will lead and inspire our existing team of 19 keepers, overseeing the care and management of our diverse collection of animals. Taxa include primates, felids, canids, large hoofstock including giraffe, birds and other small mammals.



It is envisaged that this role will be for an initial period lasting no less than 12 months.



Flexibility is key to the successful operation of the animal department as a whole and the Head Keeper is expected to provide cover and assistance to the Animal Manager in all aspects of the management of the department. This is a supervisory role and there is a significant amount of administrative work involved.


Key Objectives:


Ensure and maintain the highest level of care for animals, enclosures and surroundings.



Ensure effective day to day supervision and motivation of the keeping staff.



Actively promote training and development of keeping staff.



Manage and supervise keeping staff and maintain adequate staffing levels.



Report to the Animal Manager on all areas of operation within the department



Understand, operate and ensure that all keepers work in accordance with the Zoo Health and Safety Policy and procedures.



Actively participate in effective interdepartmental coordination and communication.



About you:

You are expected to have worked in a zoo environment for at least 10 years and currently be working in a supervisory position. You will possess the ANCMZA/DMZA or an equivalent qualification and have extensive experience with some of the taxa identified above. The successful candidates will be able to demonstrate excellent communication skills and a proven ability to motivate and manage staff reporting to this position.



You will have a through understanding and interest in modern zoo animal management, including animal enrichment and training using operant conditioning methods.



A full driving licence is essential; candidates should also be in possession of a firearms licence or be in a position to acquire such a licence.



You will be computer literate with a excellent understanding of Microsoft Word and ARKS/ZIMS. A working knowledge of Excel, PowerPoint are also essential and Microsoft Access is desirable.


About us:

Based at Banham Zoo you will work an average 40 hour week with alternate weekends off, however, working hours will be flexible and include bank holidays and occasional evenings.
Some additional weekend cover will be required to provide holiday cover.

Salary and benefits:



The salary for this post is £25,000 per annum.



To apply, either by email or post, please send covering letter, CV and application form to Mike Woolham, Animal Manager, at either mike.woolham@banhamzoo.co.uk  or Banham Zoo Ltd, The Grove, Kenninghall Road, Banham, Norfolk NR16 2HE.  Closing date for applications is 17th August 2012.

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