Zoo Jobs: Qualified Animal Keeper - Part-Time / Permanent

Position: WZ Qualified Animal Keeper – Africa Section (Part-Time / Permanent)

Salary: Salary Dependent on Experience

Location: ZSL Whipsnade Zoo – LU6 2LF

About Us:

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 Overview:

An opening has arisen for a part time Animal Keeper on our Africa Section at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo. Ideally candidates will have experience of working with a variety species. The Africa Section comprises a range of mammals including white rhino, reticulated giraffe, and chimpanzees, ring tailed lemurs, lions, cheetahs, Grevy's zebras, hippos and a number of antelope species. This position will assist the Team Leader, Deputy 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.

Working hours are 18.75 per week with summer and winter day length variation, worked within a roster which includes regular weekends so flexibility regarding hours is crucial. 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:

Observing the behaviour, health and security of animals reporting any problems to the senior staff.
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.
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 movement and training of animals
Maintaining courteous and helpful relations with visitors and media.
Supporting broader ZSL lead events such as late evenings and specialist functions.

Person Specification

Have a good level of skill and knowledge with a proven work record with a variety of exotic species
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.
Possess an animal related qualification.
Be reliable and have good time-keeping and attendance record and able to demonstrate leadership and professionalism.
Have a full clean driving license is - Essential.

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 jobonline" button. If you have any queries regarding these positions or when applying through the system please contact Human Resources at hr@zsl.org.

Closing date for applications: Midnight (23:59) Friday 3rd August 2018.

The Zoological Society of London is a charity registered in England and Wales: no. 208728.