Sunday, June 23, 2019

ZOO KEEPER


ZOO KEEPER

Start Date: July 2019

Hours: Vary throughout year. Shortest day 9am-4.30pm / Longest day 8.30am-5.30pm.

Overview:
Ventura Wildlife Park is a family run wildlife park located in Ware, Hertfordshire. We pride ourselves on being a small and interactive park where guests of all ages and abilities can discover a variety of species including: zebra, fossa, lemur, tamarins, squirrel monkeys, red kangaroo, hutia, raccoon dog, African spoonbill, scarlet ibis, Fiji iguana and prehensile-tailed skinks, amongst many others. 

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a new full-time zoo keeper to join us as part of our small and trusted team of likeminded individuals who take pride in their role and in the park. The available position involves daily care for a varied collection of wild animals therefore the suitable applicant must have experience of caring for a variety of exotic mammals, birds, reptiles and invertebrates.

Individuals must be engaging, confident, approachable and keen to learn new skills whilst focusing on animal welfare, education and visitor engagement.

The Role Involves:
·       Day to day husbandry and care of a variety of taxa.
·       Diet preparation.
·       Animal observation and record keeping.
·       Delivering public talks, school visits, animal experiences and interactive animal encounter sessions for both onsite and at offsite events.
·       Stock taking, ordering and unloading (lifting).
·       Assistance with veterinary care when needed.
·       Maintaining high standards around the park.
·       Helping to maintain park grounds and enclosures at all times and undertaking cleaning, gardening and basic repair tasks.
·       Strict adherence to safe working practices.
·       Working effectively as an individual and as part of a small team.
·       Initiative- managing own time, prioritising work load and taking responsibility for own knowledge and development within the role.

Skills & Requirements:
·       Experience of working with a range of exotic animals in a zoo or similar environment.
·       DMZAA or equivalent qualification in a relevant discipline.
·       A good animal knowledge covering a wide range of species.
·       The ability to be responsible, professional and follow instructions.
·       High levels of flexibility and practicality to respond to daily challenges.
·       Strong levels of initiative and a proactive nature.
·       Good written and communication skills.
·       First class customer service and guest interaction skills.
·       Excellent time-keeping and time management.
·       Must be physically fit and able to lift/carry weights of up to 25kg.
·       Full clean UK or EU driving licence preferable.

How to apply:
Please send your CV (including two references) and a cover letter by email to adminmanager@venturawildlife.co.uk
Your cover letter must outline why you are interested in the advertised role, your suitability for the position and your availability to start should your application be successful.

All applicants must be willing to attend an interview and complete a trial day at the park prior to starting.

NB- Due to the number of applicants we receive we are unable to provide feedback to unsuccessful applicants









photo 
Peter Dickinson
Independent International Zoo Consultant

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