Tour Guides

Tour Guides

We are looking for enthusiastic individuals to become part-time tour guides at The Living Rainforest, Berkshire. Following training, you will be booked on an hourly basis to guide groups of school children through our glasshouses, introducing them to various rainforest related topics and issues.

The Living Rainforest is a vibrant place which provides learning opportunities and training as well as a friendly, sociable, working atmosphere and flexible hours during term time and school holidays.

Experience working with children or in an educational role is desirable but not essential as training will be given.

Rates of pay: £12.84-£13.93 per tour

Due to our location, all applicants need to be able to drive.

If you are interested please email your CV to Paula Rhoads at finance@livingrainforest.org for further information please call 01635 202444 ext 201

Closing Date 21 September 2018

Peter Dickinson Independent International Zoo Consultant +971 50 4787 122 | elvinhow@gmail.com | Skype: peter.dickinson48

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Trainee Elephant Keeper

Trainee Elephant Keeper

Salary in line with national minimum/living wage

Plus, a living out allowance of £2,600 per year.

Howletts Wild Animal Park, situated near Canterbury in Kent, is home to the largest breeding herd of African elephants in the UK. Through our conservation organisation, The Aspinall Foundation, we protect numerous forest elephants in Africa.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated individual to join our small team of dedicated elephant keepers. Previous experience of working with animals is essential for this role, but not necessarily with elephants. However, we do expect candidates to show a passion for elephant welfare and some knowledge of current conservation issues.

The successful applicant will be expected to undertake all general husbandry duties including heavy lifting and strenuous cleaning, as well as enclosure maintenance, browse cutting, grass strimming and operation of vehicles such as tractors and dumper trucks. The role is physically demanding, so you will need to have a good level of physical fitness.  Candidates must have excellent observation skills and be computer literate, you will also need be comfortable talking to visitors.

A full manual driving licence is essential for this role.

The position is 40 hours per week, working 8am to 5pm, 5 days a week. Candidates must have a flexible approach to working hours. This trainee position is paid at the national minimum wage but a living out allowance is available if you do not live in site accommodation.

Closing date for applications: Tuesday 11 September 2018

All applicants must have right to work in the UK

To Apply: Please email your full C.V. and covering letter to  - personnel@aspinallfoundation.org

or post to: Human Resources Department, Port Lympne Reserve, Lympne, Kent, CT21 4PD.

Peter Dickinson Independent International Zoo Consultant +971 50 4787 122 | elvinhow@gmail.com | Skype: peter.dickinson48

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Veterinary Residency in Zoological Medicine and Pathology

Veterinary Residency in Zoological Medicine and Pathology

The Copenhagen Zoo, in conjunction with Copenhagen University and Lincoln Park Zoo is offering an ACZM- and ECZM-approved postgraduate residency program designed to produce specialists in the field of zoological medicine. The program begins in January 2019, and will run for 3 years. Reappointment for the second and third year is contingent upon the successful completion of the preceding year.

The individual completing this program will have attained a broad clinical base for future involvement in a variety of nondomestic animal practices including zoos, wildlife parks, research institutions, universities, or exotic pet referral practices.

Copenhagen Zoo is a city zoo with a diverse animal collection. Clinic facilities include a basic hospital, laboratories, isolation facilities, necropsy room, radiology, ultrasonography and endoscopy. The resident will work with the zoo’s veterinarians, animal health and curatorial staff, animal keepers and veterinary students. The resident will be based at the Zoo, but will have the opportunity to work with the faculty at the Veterinary College at Copenhagen University, and will spend time at other zoological institutions.

Qualifications for the program include a DVM degree, and a minimum of 2 years of clinical experience by the start of the program. Candidates must be fluent in written and spoken English, and a willingness to learn some Danish is expected. Candidates must be eligible to practice in Denmark. Priority is given to those candidates that fulfill the following;

1) 2-3 years of practice experience in mixed practice, exotic or zoo animal medicine, and/or completion of a 1-year internship in veterinary practice including zoo animal, mixed animal, large or small animal practice. General clinical competency is essential.

2) Excellent academic record with previous research experience and scientific publications.

Application materials should include a curriculum vitae, letter of intent with a statement of career goals, official transcript of veterinary coursework and 3 letters of recommendation. Danish veterinary licensure will be required of the successful applicant. Applications must be received by October 1st, 2018. Requests for supplementary information should be directed in writing to Dr. Mads Bertelsen, Copenhagen Zoo, DK-2000 Frederiksberg, Denmark, mfb@zoo.dk. For additional information, please visit www.zoo.dk and https://www.zoo.dk/da/om-zoo/job-elever-og-studerende/?hr=show-job%2F33250%26locale%3Den_US.

The program is funded by Annie og Otto Johs. Detlefs' Foundation.

Peter Dickinson Independent International Zoo Consultant +971 50 4787 122 | elvinhow@gmail.com | Skype: peter.dickinson48

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Turtle Survival Center Chelonian Husbandry Internship Program

Turtle Survival Center Chelonian Husbandry Internship Program

South Carolina

Description:

The Turtle Survival Alliance (TSA) is offering a unique opportunity for self-motivated people to gain hands-on experience with the day to day operations of a non-profit chelonian conservation center. The TSA is seeking applicants for full time volunteer internships at the TSA’s Turtle Survival Center (TSC) in Cross, South Carolina.

About the Organization:

The TSA’s mission statement is: Transforming passion for turtles into effective conservation action through a global network of living collections and recovery programs. The Turtle Survival Alliance Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, an action-oriented global partnership, focusing on species that are at high risk of extinction, and working in turtle diversity hotspots around the world.  Widely recognized as a global catalyst for turtle conservation based on its reputation for swift and decisive action, the TSA has made a bold commitment to zero turtle extinctions in the 21st century.  With projects or programs in Belize, Colombia, Europe, Madagascar, and throughout Asia, the TSA is a recognized force for turtle conservation globally.

In 2013, the TSA centralized its base of operations by opening the Turtle Survival Center in South Carolina.  In just four years the TSC has become recognized as a world-class turtle conservation center, complete with a greenhouse, veterinary clinic, quarantine facility, and multiple indoor/outdoor enclosures. This center is the TSA’s first and only U.S.-based conservation center, and is home to a growing collection of more than 700 turtles and tortoises, representing 30 of the world’s critically endangered species, and cared for by a staff of five full time employees.

Responsibilities and Expectations:

Volunteer interns are expected to work independently and with TSC staff in a team setting to fulfill the operational needs of the center. All interns will assist with the general day to day operations of the TSC. Responsibilities can include, but are not limited to: 

•        Providing high standards of animal husbandry to a diverse group of critically endangered chelonians

•        Monitoring animal health

•        Keeping accurate records

•        Maintaining cleanliness of animal areas

•        Propagating chelonians, including egg care and incubation

•        Assisting with veterinary care procedures 

•        Performing basic animal medical treatments 

•        General maintenance of facilities, upkeep of grounds and buildings

•        Horticulture/gardening, particularly in animal areas

•        Assisting with enclosure design and construction

•        Interacting with other interns, volunteers, students, visiting biologists, and guests

•        Participation in outreach events as well as guest tours of the facility

•        Ensuring security of the facility

Qualifications:

•        A positive and flexible attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to adapt to a changing work environment

•        Hold or be pursuing a degree in biology, ecology, conservation, zoo keeping, exotic veterinary medicine, or related field

•        Demonstrated interest in wildlife and conservation

•        Experience with animal husbandry (particularly reptiles) preferred

•        Applicants are strongly encouraged to live in on-site housing throughout the duration of the internship

•        Must hold a valid driver’s license and a personal vehicle is required

•        Must be able to pass a background check

•        Must be in good physical shape (capable of lifting 50 pounds)

Work Environment:

•        Team oriented environment in a remote location 

•        Expect an irregular work schedule consisting of days, weekends, and holidays. Some workdays may exceed 8 hours.

•        Ability to work outdoors in heat, humidity, and around biting insects

•        On-site housing is available, which may be co-ed, and which may require sharing a room with another intern of the same gender. No pets are allowed.

Availability:

The TSA is seeking interns for 2018. Dates can be flexible but applicants must be able to apply for a minimum of two (2) months. Extensions for internships are on a case by case bases.

Costs:

This is a volunteer internship position. Successful applicants will pay their own travel expenses to and from the Turtle Survival Center and a program fee of $500.00 per month. This program fee covers on-site housing while at the TSC. Applicants are encouraged to pursue funding and/or academic credit with their host institution for participating in this internship. If there are any special requirements for an applicant to receive academic credit for an internship, please let us know in your application so we may determine if the TSA can accommodate any requests.

Application Process:

Please email a letter of interest and CV or resume to the TSA’s Chelonian Keeper, Clinton Doak (cdoak@turtlesurvival.org), and include a date range of availability.

Peter Dickinson Independent International Zoo Consultant +971 50 4787 122 | elvinhow@gmail.com | Skype: peter.dickinson48

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Conservation and Learning and Discovery Manager

Conservation and Learning and Discovery Manager

 SEA LIFE UK

We are currently recruiting for a Conservation and Learning and Discovery Manager for SEA LIFE (UK), based in Weymouth, Dorset. The key aspects of this role are to develop and implement the conservation and learning and discovery programs, which will add to and help deliver fun and entertaining experiences for our visitors, engage our staff, and underpin the SEA LIFE brand. These programs will also specifically support the attainment of SEA LIFE’s business goals, and proactively position SEA LIFE as a world-leader of aquatic animal displays through positive impacts in the natural world.

In partnership with key stakeholders you will assist in the development of the global strategy, and lead the implementation of the UK regional strategy, which will incorporate the building of SEA LIFE’s conservation, education and scientific research credentials through active and coordinated programming. This will include the development of meaningful metrics to monitor and ensure success, allowing SEA LIFE to demonstrate its impact in these areas, regionally and across the globe.

Duties will also include maintaining up-to-date records of the scale, scope and impacts of the conservation, education and research programs at each of the SEA LIFE sites across the UK, developing and providing relevant training for site-based staff, responding to needs and support the SEA LIFE Trust, the Board of Conscience and the Ethical Review Board. You will provide the SEA LIFE Head of Region (to whom you will report), Divisional Director, and associated regional managers with timely data and analyses.

We are looking for the following skills and experience;

• Bachelor’s degree in science or a related field
• Proven experience developing, implementing and monitoring conservation, education and/or research programs in an informal science learning environment
• The ability to motivate others remotely and in-person
• Excellent influencing skills
• The ability to multi-task, with high levels of independence, creativity and objectivity
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills at all levels
• Highly organised with excellent attention to detail
• Able to work well under pressure
• Able to prioritise and manage time effectively

This is a Full Time, permanent role and the hours of work are 9.00am – 5.00pm Monday to Friday; however, the need to be flexible is essential.

Great people, great perks! As well as a fun and collaborative environment with a competitive salary and 25 days holiday you can look forward to enjoying a great benefits package  including a Group Personal Pension Plan, Merlin Magic pass, Employee Assistance Programme, Childcare Vouchers, Life Assurance, 25% discount in our retail shops and restaurants, 40% discount online off of LEGO, and much more!

To apply please click HERE

Peter Dickinson Independent International Zoo Consultant +971 50 4787 122 | elvinhow@gmail.com | Skype: peter.dickinson48

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Student Keeper

Student Keeper

Colchester Zoo

STUDENT KEEPER - WORK BASED LEARNING PROGRAMMES

Colchester Zoo is pleased to offer a one year placement with learning opportunities that are dedicated to the care and husbandry of animals.

Please note - All of these placements are unpaid. ‘Student keeper’ applications should be submitted on the Application Form before 21st September 2018 for placements in the following calendar year (2019).

The ‘Student Keeper’ scheme is based on gaining practical experience in a role helping with all aspects of animal husbandry on a specific animal section. You will also assist with public engagement e.g. animal experiences and presentations. In addition, you will attend formal learning sessions in theoretical aspects of zoo management (at an equivalent standard to HEFCE Level 5). Learning sessions are usually planned at monthly intervals and in the form of small group learning and action learning sets. These sessions will be coordinated and delivered by the zoo education team supported by keepers and other zoo staff.

Topics to be covered may include:

●     The Role of Zoo’s in the 21st century

●     Collection planning

●     Nutrition

●     Animal Training

●     Animal Enrichment

●     Exhibit design

●     Animal Health, Records and transfers

●     Conservation Programmes and research

●     Education

●     Action learning sets – employability, CV, interview skills, reflective learning etc.

Throughout the year, you will have the opportunity to build a portfolio of evidence that may enhance employment prospects within this highly competitive sector and help you to shape the future of your career in animal management.

Uniform requirements -

Work based learners at Colchester Zoo are required to comply with the zoo’s strict uniform policy. To do so you will need to purchase a branded uniform, that is yours to keep, at a cost of approx. £40, comprising -

●     1 x Fleece jacket

●     2 x Sweatshirt

●     2 x polo shirts

In addition, you will be expected to wear black cargo trousers or shorts, and dark coloured appropriate waterproof footwear.

We look forward to receiving your completed application!

Apply for this job:

Placement criteria – You will have studied to a minimum of Level 3 Diploma.

Applications for any of the above schemes must meet the following criteria:

●     You must be 18 years old or over

●     You must have completed or are completing an animal related course

●     You will confirm you are able to commit to five days per placement week.

●     You will be able to demonstrate extensive animal husbandry experience, though not necessarily within a zoo environment.

Placement selection –

Our work based learning schemes are always heavily oversubscribed and placements will only be offered after a robust and rigorous selection assessment that will include group exercises, presentation / engagement skills and formal discussion.

The selection assessment process for ‘student keepers’ is designed to ensure that our scheme meets the requirements of applicants and vice versa.

You will attend an initial selection assessment day followed by a further practical assessment day spent on an animal section. Note: the section where you complete your assessment may not be the section where you are placed if your application is successful

During the selection day, you will have the opportunity to meet with the Workforce Development Manager who manages the work based learning schemes and where possible with other zoo staff from animal sections.

‘Student keeper’ applications should be submitted on the Application Form before 21st September 2018 for placements in the following calendar year (2019). Selection assessments will be scheduled during early October 2018 and you must be free to start placement in early Jan 2019.

Application form can be obtained by emailing -  volunteer@colchesterzoo.org

You will also be required to complete a health questionnaire, Health and Safety statement and provide other personal data before commencing a placement.

Whilst applicants can express a preference for a placement on a specific animal section it may not always be possible to offer that choice. Applicants should therefore be flexible about which section they will be placed with.

Peter Dickinson Independent International Zoo Consultant +971 50 4787 122 | elvinhow@gmail.com | Skype: peter.dickinson48

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