Qualified Animal
Keeper, Elephants
(Full-Time /
Permanent)
ZSL - Whipsnade Zoo
The Zoological
Society of London (ZSL), a charity founded in 1826, is a world-renowned centre
of excellence for conservation science and applied conservation. ZSL’s mission
is to promote and achieve the worldwide conservation of animals and their habitats.
This is realised by carrying out field conservation and research in over 50
countries across the globe and through education and awareness-raising at our
two zoos, ZSL London Zoo and ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, inspiring people to take
conservation action.
Role Profile:
ZSL is seeking a
qualified animal keeper to work on our elephant section at Whipsnade Zoo. Ideally the successful candidate will be a
qualified keeper and have prior experience of working with elephants but, if
not, have a genuine interest in working with these species. This position will
also assist the team leader and other senior keepers in all aspects of their
work but primarily the care of the animals ensuring high standards of animal
welfare, animal husbandry and keep daily checks and records of animals within
the section following a period of intensive training.
The working hours
are 37.5 per week, worked within a roster which includes regular weekends so
flexibility regarding hours is crucial. Applicants must have a passion for
working with elephants in a zoo environment and be able to demonstrate good
communication skills. Having experience of dealing with the public is
essential, as is the ability to work effectively within a team.
Main Duties and
Responsibilities:
- Learning new skills and techniques in elephant care.
- Observing the behaviour, health and security of animals and reporting any problems to the team leader or senior staff.
- Ensuring that conditions for animals are suitable and reporting any problems, including defects or repairs required to enclosures, to the senior staff on section and relevant departments required.
- Assisting with the preparation of approved diets and carrying out the correct feeding procedures.
- Cleaning and maintaining exhibits and other designated areas.
- Ensuring that safety and emergency procedures are followed at all times.
- Assisting with the movement and/or training of animals and/or animal demonstrations
- Supporting in the training and mentoring of less experienced staff.
- Maintaining courteous and helpful relations with visitors and media.
- Supporting broader ZSL lead events such as late evenings and specialist functions.
Person
Specification:
The successful
candidate will ideally:
- Have a good level of skill and knowledge together with a proven work record with elephants.
- Have strong attention to detail and the ability to clearly convey instruction.
- Have an understanding of mammal breeding and good familiarity with external zoo associations such as BIAZA and EAZA.
- Able to use Microsoft software including Outlook, Excel and Word.
- Have a qualification in a relevant field at university level and/or diploma in the DZMAA Keeper’s course or equivalent work experience.
- Be reliable and have good time-keeping and attendance record and able to demonstrate leadership and professionalism.
- A full driving license is also required.
Please note: This is
a full-time, permanent position based at Whipsnade Zoo. Flexible working is
required for this position which will include working alternate weekends and
bank holidays. Applicant must also be presentable, flexible in their approach
and totally reliable.
To apply for this job:
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 here
If you have any
queries regarding these positions or when applying through the system please
contact Human Resources at wzhr@zsl.org
Closing date for
applications: Midnight Sunday 9th July 2017
Peter Dickinson
Independent International Zoo Consultant        |
No comments:
Post a Comment