Zoo Jobs: Zoo Keeper

Zoo Keeper

Northumberland Country Zoo

Northumberland Country Zoo is an up-and-coming family run zoo in the heart of Northumberland which is constantly expanding year after year with over 100 species. We are provisional members of BIAZA with high standards in all aspects of the collection including husbandry and conservation. We have various species from Snow Leopards, Raccoons & Capybara to Reptiles, Parrots & Raptors all currently based on 20 acres.

Due to expansion and ambitious future plans, we have an exciting opportunity for a likeminded team-player who will fit in with our current animal care team.

The animal keeper will be required to work in a team environment ensuring that day-to-day husbandry is carried out in an effective and timely manner using the current standard operating procedures.

Potential candidates will be required to do a trial day at Northumberland Zoo.

This position is to be based on our exotic animal section which has Raccoons, Lemurs, Lynx, Otters, Meerkats, Arctic Foxes, Capybara, Wallabies, Scottish Wildcats and Snow Leopards.

The role involves:

· Day to day husbandry routines for various different species

· Providing enrichment opportunities for various species on a daily basis.

· Decorating and maintaining exhibits.

· Strict adherence to risk assessments, bio security and safe working practices.

· Taking ownership for the presentation of the zoo by maintaining high standards.

· In this role, you will be reporting to the Team Leader of your animal keeping section.

To be considered for this post the following is essential:

· Have at least 2 years of professional zoo work experience working with animals in a zoo environment.

· Have high animal welfare standards with regards to the care and daily husbandry routines.

· Be qualified in an appropriate captive wild animal husbandry, biological or conservation discipline.

· Have great observational skills when working with the animals in the park, understanding animal behaviour.

· Have the ability to keep accurate records relating to animal welfare.

· Full driver's license and access to vehicle required due to rural setting of zoo.

It is also essential that candidates are able to demonstrate the following personal competencies:

· Have great communication skills for working within a team.

· Be able to work effectively and with minimum supervision within a timely manner.

· Have strong interpersonal skills and be confident to interact with the public.

· Be physically fit as this role includes a lot of walking, bending and lifting various weights.

· Experience with various types of animal enrichment.

Working at Northumberland Country Zoo

This full-time position requires someone to be comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions, including working on weekends, during school holidays as well as bank holidays on a rota with the rest of the current animal care team.

Candidates will be expected to work 40 hours a week and will be entitled to statutory holiday entitlement which does not include bank holidays.

This position will pay at the rate of the national minimum wage.

If you would like to be considered for this post, please submit your full CV including a cover letter detailing your suitability for the above position to maxine@northumberlandzoo.co.uk

Application deadline Friday October 1st, 2021.

Contract length: 12 months and the option to become full-time permanent.

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