Zoo Jobs: Animal Keeper

Saturday, July 10, 2021

Animal Keeper – Chimps

Animal Keeper – Chimps

Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park

The Company

Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park was opened to the public in 1970 and was, at the time, one of Britain’s first safari parks. We are now one of the most popular visitor attractions in Scotland. The Park has a strong focus on conservation, education and the local community. We also run a successful fundraising program for conservation “link to the wild”.

We are currently looking for an experienced and confident animal keeper to join our team working predominately with our troop of chimpanzees. This position is offered on a full time, permanent basis.

The Role

This is an exciting opportunity working as part of a small team with primary responsibility for the management and welfare of our chimps.

The position involves husbandry tasks, such as feeding, cleaning, health monitoring and some enclosure maintenance, including the development of enrichment, all delivered to a high standard.

Applicant Requirements

This person must be a pro-active individual that will take a hands-on approach within the department with an eye for detail and presentation.

The candidate must have an interest and some knowledge of primate species and previous experience of working with great apes.

Experience in operant conditioning training would be an advantage, but not essential.

The successful candidate will be able to work well as part of a team, have the ability to use their initiative, display an interest in and commitment to animal welfare, environmental enrichment, behavioural enrichment, feeding enrichment and conservation,

Weekend, bank holiday working and flexibility in working hours is essential to this role. Some evening work will be required during special events throughout the year.

Ensuring the safety of our visitors, staff and animals is of key importance and ensuring that health & safety protocols are followed at all times.

Applicant Essentials

Experience of working with similar species. Minimum 2 + years.
Good observation and communication skills.
Self-motivated and enthusiastic.
High understanding of following safe working protocols.
A current full driving licence.
Animal related qualification to HND level or above
The zoo animal management qualification (DMZAA) is desirable but not essential for this position.
Firearms Licence and Shotgun Certificate Holder or have sufficient weapons training and credentials to enable the successful granting of, or variations to, a licence.