Zoo Jobs: Head Keeper

Head Keeper

Wildlife Heritage Foundation

Kent

Job title: Head Keeper

Type: Full time; permanent position

Reports to: CEO

Hours: Summer 8am-6pm, Winter 8am-5pm includes weekend and bank holiday work

Work pattern: 5 days work, 2 days off; however, flexibility in pattern/hours of work is necessary in this post

Job description prepared: October 2014

Review: November 2015

Position Overview:

The Head Keeper’s role at Wildlife Heritage Foundation will encompass all facets of site activity; including but not limited to animal husbandry, experiences, all events, guest accommodation and any site activity thereafter.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities include:

At all times, working within the guidelines of health and safety procedures to ensure animal, staff, and visitor security;
Overseeing the day-to-day care and welfare of the animals held at WHF, within the guidance of Zoo Licensing Act 1981 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Regulations 2002. This will include daily security checks, animal husbandry routines/management, environmental enrichment and veterinary interventions;
Collecting data and maintaining up-to-date animal records;
Contribute to the development, implementation and revision of collection plans;
Supervision of all members of the husbandry team, including volunteers & students;
Awareness of Ethical, Population Management, and Animal welfare policies and issues;
Holding shotgun & fire arms licences, (including darting equipment) and ensuring all are properly maintained, cleaned and tested; participating in on-call rota, ensuring 24 hour site cover. Supporting firearms staff competency, via regular training, practical exercises and the keeping of all necessary records;
Forecasting, ordering and managing supplies & equipment for use by Husbandry team, including robust stock control procedures and adherence to budgets;
Contribute to education, media and marketing initiatives to help encourage public understanding of animals and conservation; this may include representing WHF at external events;
Host overnight lodge experience (approx. times 5.30pm – 10.30pm; dates mutually agreed, based on site & personal requirements);
Co-ordinate site activity on a day to day basis; assisting & deputising for the Chief Executive Officer.
Contribute to team recruitment processes & selection, staff, volunteers & students
Co-ordinate & lead team meetings and oversee completion of agreed actions
Identify development opportunities for self & team, attending formal & informal training as required
Other duties as required to support effective and efficient site working

This Job Description provides a general account of duties and responsibilities; which may be subject to variation and change as necessary.

Qualifications & Skills:

Essential:

Minimum of 10 years’ experience with the zoo industry; 4 of which should be in a senior role
Full, clean driving licence; own transport essential
Eligibility to work in the UK

Desirable:

Academic qualification in animal care and husbandry, or willingness to undertake
Be able to work well alone and as part of a team
Excellent verbal communication skills
Good presentation skills
Reasonable IT skills; including working knowledge of ZIMS

To apply, please send your CV and covering letter, including details of your salary expectations, to Rachel Garrett HR Manager at rachel@whf.org.uk

The closing date for applications is Friday 12 December 2014; interviews will be held during the week commencing Monday 12 January 2015.

If you have not heard from us within 14 days of the closing date please consider your application unsuccessful on this occasion.

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