Thursday, October 31, 2019

Student Work Experience Opportunities at Jersey Zoo (Durrell)



Student Work Experience Opportunities at Jersey Zoo (Durrell)

Durrell is delighted to be able to offer a number of work experience placements, which will give you a unique understanding of working for an international conservation organisation. A placement at Durrell will provide valuable experience to add to your CV showing future employers that you are committed to a career in the conservation sector.

There is the chance to develop your skills across a variety of departments at Durrell, including the mammal, bird, herpetology, lab & veterinary, communications & fundraising, and education departments. There is also the opportunity to complete research projects and dissertations during your placement. To see if you are suitable to apply for a placement, please view the guidelines here and click 'Student Work Experience'.


To learn more or apply please click HERE









photo 
Peter Dickinson
Independent International Zoo Consultant

Trainee Aquarist/Keeper


Trainee Aquarist/Keeper

Exploris Aquarium

What we are looking for:

This is a unique opportunity for willing candidates to come and help us take care of our extensive collection of fish, reptiles and mammals.  

Located in Portaferry, Northern Ireland.  We are a small privately-owned Aquarium & Seal Sanctuary. (supported by DAERA.)  

Reporting directly to the Head Keeper/Animal Manager & General Manager, the Trainee Aquarist/Keeper will be responsible for all aspects of the day to day needs of the Aquariums livestock department.  You will be responsible for ensuring that the highest standards of wellbeing including health and presentation of all stock and exhibits.   

This is a practical “hands on” role and the successful candidate will always be expected to work as part of the team as needed to ensure the efficient and safe operation of the department. It is a role where you will be given the time and training required for progression and personal development.

The role is ideal for someone who has a real willingness to learn and the patience to learn from their mistakes as they develop. 

Self-motivation is a key requirement for this role.

Aquarium Exploris expects all employees to work as a team in a friendly and professional environment. During busy periods we will require all employees to contribute in other areas of the business to ensure a smooth and professional service is delivered.  

Requirements

Essential: 

  • Ability to work shift patterns to the needs of the business. 
  • Ability to deal with the public comfortably and present information on a one to one and a group basis. 
  • Someone who has the desire to learn and develop animal husbandry skills. 
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office 
  • Full UK Driving License 
  • Someone willing to complete requires maintenance on Tanks & Enclosures e.g. Power washing, Display & Pipe work etc. 

Desirable:

  • Previous experience in a similar role 
  • Experience in seal rehabilitation 

Responsibilities

  • Carry out feeding duties 
  • Running aquarium tanks and systems 
  • Maintain up to date tank displays 
  • Monitoring of water quality and fish stock quality 
  • Dealing with alarm issues of tanks that may arise during or after work  
  • Develop and maintain education and conservation program 
  • Carry out talks while performing duties 
  • To ensure aquarium is cleaned daily and is maintained in a hygienic manner. 
  • To observe fire, health and safety rules and procedures and to partake in fire and accident drills. 
  • To ensure that all materials and equipment are not left in a hazardous state. 
  • To wear protective clothing and eye protection when dealing with any chemicals or hazardous materials. 
  • To immediately report any leaks, equipment failure or any other condition you would not deem normal. 
  • To ensure stock control and rotation procedures are carried out where applicable.
  • Power washing of seal pools, Otter River and other enclosures as required

The above list is not exhaustive, and the role will include other duties not detailed here. 

Flexibility 

  • The Trainee Aquarist/Keeper is expected to be available as necessary to ensure that the welfare and presentation of the collection(s) to visitors is always maintained to the highest standards. 
  • No set hours are laid down for this position but in general terms a five-day working week will be required including bank holidays and weekend days on a rota basis.  A start time of 9.00am is required to enable the organization of staff and an early inspection of animals to take place and generally a finishing time of 5.00/6.30 pm will be required depending on the time of year. 

Benefits 

  • 28 Days Paid Holidays  
  • Branded Uniform (varies by job role/ department). In addition, any items you wear should be smart and appropriate. It is your responsibility to keep all items clean, laundered and presentable at all times. 
  • Workplace pension 
  • Complimentary staff tickets 
  • Staff Discount 
  • Free Parking 
  • Staff Meal deal 

We are also offering a 3-month free accommodation package if required by the successful applicant.  This is located 10 minutes’ drive from the Aquarium. Includes, heating, electric and internet usage.  

To apply for this job:
Download and complete application form which can be found at:


Email your applications to: info@explorisni.com

Post: Careers, Exploris Aquarium, The Rope Walk, Castle Street, Portaferry, BT22 1NZ









photo 
Peter Dickinson
Independent International Zoo Consultant

Aquarist



Aquarist

Chessington World of Adventures

We are Chessington World of Adventures Resort and we are part of the magical Merlin Entertainments!

We are currently recruiting for an Aquarist.  In this role you will support all aspects of husbandry and welfare, maintaining high standards of animal health, well-being, and public appreciation. We are looking for someone with practical experience working within an aquarium environment.

You will present the SEA LIFE centre, in an immersive and educational manner.  You will be responsible for the maintenance and refurbishment of displays and presentations, ensuring that correct husbandry needs are met and completing records and documentation as required.

You will also need to keep up-to-date with Zoo world best practices and have a strong knowledge of our competitors.

We are looking for the following skills and experience;

Previous experience within a similar environment and have achieved a qualification in Animal Management or a marine related qualification.
A good level of understanding of natural sciences, and knowledge of the husbandry, welfare and ethical needs of underwater creatures.
Good presentation skills are a must, in addition to the ability & passion to interact with the public.
Strong communication & computer skills are required as is efficient time management and organisational skills.
Swimming & diving ability with a SCUBA certification is advantageous.
Enthusiasm to learn & develop in the role, a good level of understanding of animal behaviour.
An understanding of our family resort and have the confidence and ability to interact and engage with our guests of all ages.

This role is full time, permanent, averaging 40 hours per week and will include weekends and bank holidays as required.

Alongside a competitive annual salary up to £17,333 and 28 days holiday (including bank holidays) you can look forward to enjoying a great benefits package  including a Group Personal Pension Plan, Merlin Magic pass, Employee Assistance Programme, Life Assurance, 25% discount in our retail shops and restaurants, 40% discount online off of Lego, and much more!









photo 
Peter Dickinson
Independent International Zoo Consultant

Animal Keeper - Reserves





Animal Keeper - Reserves

Woburn Safari Park

Woburn Safari Park is home to some of the world’s most magnificent and endangered animals. The park consists of a Foot Safari, Road Safari, Retail and catering outlets and is enjoyed by families looking for a fun day out.  It is also home to The Safari Lodge, a unique events venue.
We are currently recruiting for an Animal Keeper to join the Reserves department, working with a variety of hoof-stock.


Working as part of a close team you will be responsible for maintaining high standards of animal care and welfare. In addition, you will ensure safety standards are adhered to, including the associated risk assessments and protocols, whilst ensuring the best possible visitor experience is delivered.


You will have previous experience of working with hoof-stock, or within a similar environment. Undertaking a Zoo Animal Management qualification or equivalent is desirable but not essential. Driving is a fundamental requirement of the role, therefore a full current driving licence is essential.


The successful applicant should demonstrate a passion for animal welfare and conservation, be highly motivated, flexible and committed to Woburn Safari Park’s high standards of husbandry and welfare.


Applicants will need to be flexible as regular weekend working is required to meet the needs of the business.












photo 
Peter Dickinson
Independent International Zoo Consultant

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

Reptile Keeper


Reptile Keeper

Colchester Zoo

Colchester Zoo is seeking an experienced and highly motivated animal keeper to join its reptile department. The successful candidate will be working in a team of five keepers and reporting to the Head of Section. This section is responsible for the daily management and husbandry of our reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates and fishes. The successful applicant will be responsible for but not limited to; cleaning of exhibits, feeding and general care and welfare of the animals and associated tasks. Knowledge of aquarium LSS and a keen interest in habitat design would be advantageous.

 The ideal applicant will have worked for a minimum of one year in a recognised zoological institution and it is expected that you will have been awarded an HND or degree level qualification in a zoological related science. However, due consideration will be given to the individuals own level of zoological experience and academic achievement.

Please send your CV, Covering letter and a completed 'Colchester Zoo Employment Application Form' which can be found at: https://www.colchester-zoo.com/careers/colchester-zoo-vacancies/

Marked for the attention of the Curator to: vacancies@colchesterzoo.org

Please note that only those applicants that are invited to interview for this position will be contacted.







photo 
Peter Dickinson
Independent International Zoo Consultant

Monday, October 28, 2019

Keeper


Keeper

Wild Planet Trust - Newquay Zoo

Newquay Zoo, a registered scientific and education charity, has an exciting opportunity for an experienced keeper to join our team. This position is a cover keeper position and will involve working across primates, carnivores, hoofstock, birds, reptiles and amphibians. You will be responsible for the hands-on day-to-day husbandry of our animal collection, focusing on animal welfare, bio-security, record keeping and ensuring that exhibits are maintained to the highest standards.

You will have at least 2 years of prior experience working in a zoological collection or similar establishment and will have completed the DMZAA course or will have over 4 years experience.

You will have a broad knowledge of husbandry practices. You will be a team player yet also able to work on your own initiative.  You will be confident speaking to guests and responding to their questions.

A full driving licence is essential

This is a full time position working 38.75 hours per week.

Salary is dependent on experience and qualifications.

Newquay Zoo offers the following benefits (after probationary period):

  • 28 days paid holiday pro rata (inclusive of Bank Holidays) rising to 33 days pro rata after 5 years
  • Defined contribution pension scheme
  • Company sick pay
  • Branded uniform provided (as required)
  • Relevant internal and external training provided
  • Free entry to our 3 zoos for staff and immediate family
  • Complimentary tickets
  • Discounts in our Catering and Retail outlets (as applicable)
  • Free staff parking
  • Employee Assistance Programme

To apply please visit our career page: www.newquayzoo.org.uk/about/vacancies








photo 
Peter Dickinson
Independent International Zoo Consultant