Zoo Jobs: Qualified Animal Keeper

Qualified Animal Keeper - Deer and Antelope

ZSL - Whipsnade Zoo

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.

ZSL is seeking a Qualified Animal Keeper for the Deer and Antelope team, working with a variety of ungulates and especially focused on Deer.

The main role of this position is to manage the day-to-day operational duties relating to animal husbandry and visitor interaction within the Section specifically relating to Hoofstock, but also including free-roaming species such as Wallabies and Mara on occasion. This is directed day to day by the section Team Leader or other key senior animal department staff within the section.

The successful candidate will also be expected to:

Observe the behaviour, health and security of animals and report any problems to the Team Leader or manager including defects or repairs required to enclosures and relevant departments required to support work needed.
Assist with the preparation of approved diets and carrying out the correct feeding procedures.
Cleaning and maintaining of exhibits and other designated areas.
Training of ungulate species or other animals for husbandry purposes
Assist with management of other taxa on occasion, if required

The successful candidate will:

Have practical experience of animal training.
Be able to demonstrate a broad knowledge of husbandry techniques of ungulates.
Have a willingness to work on evolving husbandry management to include positive re-enforcement training for behavioural management and varied methods of enrichment for a range of species.
Have knowledge and experience of practical animal handling.
Be able to demonstrate initiative and a pro-active approach to completing tasks beneficial to the section/department without always waiting to be asked.
Have a qualification in a relevant field at university level and/or diploma in the DZMAA Keeper’s course or equivalent work experience.
Be reliable and have good timekeeping and attendance record and able to demonstrate professionalism and excellent team ethic.
Be physically fit as the job entails labour and some heavy lifting.

Please note: Flexible working is required for this position which will include working some weekends and bank holidays. Applicant must also be presentable, flexible in their approach and totally reliable. A full manual driving license is also required.

To learn more and/or apply please click HERE

ZOO AND AQUARIUM NEWS FOR ZOO PROFESSIONALS

REGULAR UPDATES

https://www.facebook.com/zoonewsdigest