Wednesday, August 23, 2017

Trainee Animal Keeper, Small Mammals


Trainee Animal Keeper, Small Mammals

London Zoo ZSL


About Us:

The Zoological Society of London (ZSL), a charity founded in 1826, is a leading international conservation, science and education charity. 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 around the world and through education and engagement at our two zoos, ZSL London Zoo and ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, inspiring people to take conservation action.

Role Profile:

We are looking to recruit a Trainee Keeper to work on our Small Mammals section (including a range of Primates, Sloths, Coatis and Meerkats). The successful candidate will be expected to ensure high standards of animal welfare, animal husbandry and keep daily checks and records of animals within the section. 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 a variety of animals within a Zoo environment. Good communication skills and experience of dealing with the public is essential, together with the ability to work effectively within a team.

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Assisting with the preparation of approved diets and carrying out the correct feeding procedures.
  • Cleaning and maintaining exhibits and other designated areas.
  • 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 as instructed and reporting any problems, including defects or repairs required to enclosures, to the senior staff on section.
  • Assisting Senior Keepers, and other Living Collection colleagues, with veterinary, training and other relevant animal related procedures.
  • Ensuring that health, safety and emergency procedures are followed at all times as instructed. Ensuring that personal safety is a priority.
  • Supporting positive visitor experiences by answering questions in a friendly and helpful manner, ensuring that visitors leave with a good impression of the Living Collections team.


Person Specification:

  • Practical experience of animal management with a range of exotic species.
  • Broad taxonomic knowledge on a range of species managed within zoological collections.
  • Willingness to work on and learn about evolving husbandry management within zoological collections to include positive re-enforcement training for behavioural management and varied methods of enrichment for a range of species.
  • Knowledge of techniques used to handle specific animals should catch ups or veterinary procedures require this.
  • Be able to demonstrate initiative and a pro-active approach to completing tasks beneficial to the section/department without always waiting to be asked.

Please note: Candidates must demonstrate a keen interest in animal management as you will also be expected to undertake the appropriate studies to progress within the Keeper training programme DMZAA enrolment.

To Apply:

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 job online" 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 10th September 2017.

The Zoological Society of London is a registered Charity no: 208728.




Peter Dickinson
Independent International Zoo Consultant
      


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