Zoo Jobs: Trainee Animal Keeper

Trainee Animal Keeper

New Forest Wildlife Park

Position: Trainee Animal Keeper (Full-time / Permanent)

Salary: ( N.M.W. dependant on age)

About Us:

New Forest Wildlife Park is an established and expanding family run business. New Forest Wildlife Park is one of two BIAZA accredited zoos within our partnership. We endeavor to attain the highest standards of animal husbandry, conservation and education. Our mission is to promote and achieve the global conservation of animals and their habitats through education and interaction with the public.

To this end our two centers’ hold an important and diverse range of species. New Forest Wildlife Park promotes both U.K. and European native species. Focusing on both extant and extinct species. In addition, some important exotic species.

Overview of Role:

We are seeking an unqualified/ trainee Animal Keeper to work with this wide range of species within our collection. The successful candidate will be expected to maintain high standards of animal welfare and husbandry. To be able to keep daily checks and records of animals within all sections, under the guidance and tutorship of our experienced staff

Working hours are 40hrs per week on roster including regular weekends and Bank Holidays. A flexible approach to working hours is necessary.

The role is physically demanding. As our site is mainly outdoors the successful candidate must enjoy working in all weather conditions both independently and part of the team.

Applicants should have a passion to want to work with a variety of animals within a zoo/wildlife park environment. A college or university qualification is considered, but not essential. We are looking someone who truly wants to get into the industry and is looking for a career in zoos/ conservation. Previous experience is desired and will be taken into consideration. Excellent communication skills, public facing and customer service is essential in this role.

A good background in any working environment is preferred, as is a relevant zoological qualification, whether completed or in process of being completed.

Main Duties:

• Assisting with the cleaning of all areas within the zoo. This will include grounds work/ car parking/ litter picking/ gardening, public areas and staff areas.

• Assisting with enclosure/paddock servicing, maintenance and refurbishment.

• Assisting with the preparation of approved diets, nutrition and enrichment.

• Assisting under instruction/supervision the carrying out of correct feeding procedures where this is deemed appropriate by the Animal Manager.

• Ensuring that safety and emergency procedures are always followed.

• Assisting where appropriate with the movement and/or training of animals, “Meet the Animals” etc. as directed by senior staff.

• Maintaining courteous and helpful relations with visitors.

• Assisting in various projects related to animal management as directed by senior animal management staff.

Working with category one animals.

The position will require the successful candidate to start at a basic level and work up, learning on the job is essential and all training and support in continued personal development will be provided.

Personal Specification:

• Practical experience of animal husbandry with a range of domestic and exotic species in a zoological/ captive setting is preferred but not essential.

• Broad taxonomic knowledge on a range of species managed within zoological collections would be an advantage.

• Willingness to work and learn about evolving husbandry management within zoological collections. Including positive re-enforcement training for behavioral management and methods of enrichment for a range of species.

• Be able to demonstrate initiative and a pro-active approach to completing tasks beneficial to the section/department without always waiting to be asked. Initiative-passion and enthusiasm are key points we are looking for.

• An ability to share knowledge and ensure all our visitors have a positive experience during their visit.

• A full clean manual driving licence is required.

• Accommodation will not be provided on site.

• Public transport is not available must have own means of transport.

• No telephone or Skype interviews. Interviews will be held at the New Forest Wildlife Park.

• We are seeking to fill the position as soon as possible, so interviews will be held at our earliest convenience.

To Apply:

Applicants will need to send their CV, application form (available from the email address below) and covering letter (detailing relevant experience and skills, stating why they want the position and including details of availability), to hr@chestnutcentre.co.uk.