TEAM MANAGER – RHINOS

 Chester Zoo is the UK’s No.1 top zoo, and one of the leading zoological collections in Europe, with an international reputation for achieving its mission in conservation breeding programmes, research and education.  With the new ‘Islands’ site under construction, due to open in the spring, 2015 is set to be an exciting year! 

We currently have a vacancy for a Team Manager to join our Rhino team. The post will involve the daily management of the section along with mentoring, training and developing the team.

We are looking for someone with extensive knowledge and expertise in animal husbandry and management with a focus on two species of rhinoceros and hoof stock including several deer and antelope species.  In addition to having previous experience of working within a zoo environment, applicants will also have animal conservation experience and an understanding of environmental issues.

Chester Zoo aims to set a benchmark for animal welfare and the successful candidate must have a proactive approach to developing new ideas for improving husbandry. Building strong working relationships within the team and with other departments, the Team Manager will ensure delivery of an excellent level of animal husbandry and care.

The successful candidate will be educated to a minimum of HND or degree level in Zoo Animal Management/Zoological Science, or have equivalent experience.  They will have considerable leadership experience, experience of supervising a team and be able to organise and prioritise tasks in a dynamic environment.

A proven understanding of risk assessments and COSHH is essential for this role to ensure all staff members are fully aware of safety and management procedures.

This role will also involve representing the Rhino team at internal and external meetings, workshops and conferences in the UK and overseas.  Therefore, excellent written and verbal communication skills are required.  Competency in the use of computers and basic software packages (including an understanding of ZIMS/SPARKS) would be advantageous for this role and a full clean UK driving licence is also a requirement.

Salary is £30,227 per annum for a 40 hour week (including some weekends and bank holidays).

To apply: please contact the recruitment line on recruitment@chesterzoo.org or 01244 389477.

Closing date for applications is 31^st January, 2015.