Zoo Jobs: Animal Keeper - Based on the Gorilla Section

Tuesday, November 2, 2021

Animal Keeper - Based on the Gorilla Section

Animal Keeper - Based on the Gorilla Section

Salary commensurate with experience

Plus a living out allowance, or possibly, on-site accommodation.

Howletts & Port Lympne Wild Animal Parks, in conjunction with the Aspinall Foundation, are a charity based organisation committed to protecting rare and endangered animals from extinction through captive breeding and reintroduction programmes. The parks are home of one of the world’s most prized wild animal collections and are one of the biggest visitor attractions in Kent. Over the past few years alone, we have released Back to The Wild a range of animals including 8 black rhino, 49 Javan langurs, 9 Javan gibbon, 11 European bison and over 60 western lowland gorillas back to their natural habitat.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated individual to join our team of dedicated Gorilla keepers at Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve. The ideal candidate will have previous experience of working with Gorillas, in a mainstream zoological collection and an awareness of current conservation issues and a passion for animal welfare. A recognised Zoo Animal Management qualification would also be advantageous.

The main duties will involve:

· Preparation of approved diets and carrying out the correct feeding procedures

· Conducting animal experiences and talks for the public and accommodation guests

· Cleaning and maintaining enclosures as well as adjacent working areas

· Observing the behavior, health and security of animals

· Ensuring that safety and emergency procedures are followed at all times

· Maintaining courteous and helpful relations with visitors at all times.

This is a physically demanding position so candidates must have a good level of physical fitness. A full valid driving licence is also essential to the role. Ideally you will possess good all-round animal husbandry skills and be enthusiastic in contributing to the enrichment of the Gorillas at the park.

This role is 40 hours a week working 5 days out of 7 including weekends and bank holidays, the successful candidate will have a genuinely flexible approach to working hours. All applicants must have right to work in the UK.