Section Head of Primates

Salary is up to £24,516 per annum DOE

If on-site accommodation is not available or required then a living out allowance is paid.

Living out allowance is £2,600 gross per annum (pro rata to working hours).

Howletts Wild Animal Park is a world class wildlife park supporting the international conservation charity The Aspinall Foundation, which runs a number of renowned overseas conservation projects. We are home to an outstanding collection of rare and endangered Primates, including Javan Gibbons and Javan Langurs – both of which we have reintroduction projects for. Other species on the section include Francois Langurs, Gelada, Pied Tamarin, White-naped Mangabeys, Siamang, DeBrazza, Crowned Lemur, Black and White Ruffed Lemur.

This vacancy has arisen due to internal promotion. The current section head has represented the park at various relevant meetings both in Europe and internationally and was supported by the company to run an EEP programme.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated individual to overseas the daily running of the section and lead our team of 8 dedicated primate keepers. You will contribute to future collection planning and produce a budget for the section and monitor expenditure. You will also ensure that excellent husbandry is maintained and assist in the development of junior staff, volunteers and interns.

Essential requirements of the role:

- Five or more years’ significant experience in a mainstream zoological collection, ideally in a similar position working with primates.

- Previous experience as a deputy head of section or supervisory role.

- Excellent husbandry skills and standards.

- Able to demonstrate an awareness of current conservation issues and a passion for animal welfare.

- Previous experience of collection planning and enclosure design.

- A good understanding of health and safety requirements for a modern zoological collection.

- Proven ability to supervise and develop staff and ensure that the section is maintained to the highest standards.

- The ability to adapt to changing priorities and situations calmly and efficiently.

- Excellent organisational and communication skills and report writing.

- To lead the section by example with a proactive attitude.

- IT literate.

- A full, valid UK driving licence.

Desirable requirements:

- Experience driving farm machinery.

- Maintenance and machinery skills.

- Fire arms trained.

This is a permanent role, working 40 hours per week across 5 days, which will include weekends and bank holidays. The working hours are 8am – 5pm. The successful candidate will have a genuinely flexible approach to working hours. All applicants must have right to work in the UK.

The Benefits: