Zoo Jobs: Dedicated Ape Keeper / Maternity cover

Dedicated Ape Keeper / Maternity cover

There is currently an opportunity for an experienced Ape keeper to join the team at Kolmården Wildlife park for a 15-month maternity cover. Depending on circumstances in the future along with performance, this contract can come to be extended.

In the role as Animal Keeper on our Ape section you will be part of a team that ensures the highest possible welfare standards for our Gorillas, Chimps and Gibbons.

We aim for optimal welfare for all our animals at all times and as such you will not only be responsible for ensuring exceptional enclosure cleanliness and appropriate nutrition for the animals, but you will also be expected to carry out daily animal observations, thorough record keeping and goal-oriented environmental enrichment. The apes partake in an extensive husbandry training program, therefore their team of keepers plan and execute daily positive reinforcement training in protected contact. Lastly, all our animal staff engage with our visitors on a daily basis, inspiring and educating them through guided tours, presentations, media and school programs.

The right candidate for this position has previous experience working with apes in a Zoological setting. A sense of responsibility and awareness of safe practices when working with and around large apes is a requirement. A sound knowledge of learning science theory and how to apply it is advantageous.

As Kolmården Wildlife Park is always looking to improve in all areas, a person who is passionate about positive developments, particularly in animal welfare would be suitable in this role. We want you to apply for this position if you are a skilled problem solver who is flexible with a can-do approach in work. Creativity and the ability to think outside the box is important, as is exceptional communication skills alongside a knack for adapting them.

Animal Keepers at Kolmården work under high pressure year-round and the job is physically very demanding. As such, you need to be effective and physically fit.

Driver’s license is a requirement for this position. Knowledge of ZIMS is desirable. Fluency in spoken and written English is required. Applicants must have a right to work within the EU.

This is a 15-month contract to cover maternity leave.

Applications close 5th February 2018.

For questions about the recruitment process, please contact: liza.wrangenby@kolmarden.com

For CVs and any questions about the vacancy, please contact: linda.berggren@kolmarden.com

We look forward to receiving your application!