Zoo Jobs: Animal Keeper Internship Role

Animal Keeper Internship Role

Ventura Wildlife Foundation

About US

The Ventura Wildlife Foundation (VWF) is a new non-profit organisation dedicated to protecting wildlife and wild habitats around the world. The Foundation operates from a dedicated 15-acre private wildlife conservation centre in Croxley Green, Hertfordshire. The site is not routinely open to the public; however, access is granted to members and those with pre-book experiences/tours and events.

The centre houses over 60 species of animal including Javan porcupine, binturong, fossa, Grant’s zebra, red kangaroo, various mongoose, Galapagos and Aldabra tortoise, lemurs, pelicans, and flamingos. There is also a rare breeds farm on site.

VWF participates in a growing number of local and international wildlife conservation projects and aims to help mobilise people and organisations to preserve and protect wildlife habitats around the world.

Our Internships / Next Intake:

Internship positions are available for either 3-month, 6-month or 9-month durations. The next main intake is January 2021, although we are in position to consider those wishing to start earlier or later.

An internship with VWF provides a unique opportunity for those looking to develop a career in animal keeping, zoo management, conservation, or ecology. You will work alongside the keeping team to learn how to care for a variety of exotic animals including mammals, birds and reptiles. You will also develop communication and customer-facing skills supporting various events including member days, wildlife photography days, behind the scenes tours and various animal experiences.

This internship is primarily practical but does include several classroom-based learning sessions led by our management team.

All internships are offered on a voluntary basis. VWF is unable to provide any financial support to those wishing to apply. It is recommended applicants are located within a suitable travelling distance for the duration of this internship.

Internship hours are 8.30am–5pm, 5 days per week, which routinely includes weekends and bank holidays.

Objectives of internship:

· Gain experience working within a professional wildlife conservation organisation.

· To develop animal keeping husbandry skills.

· Gain knowledge and experience of providing care for a variety of different exotic animals:

Mammals (small carnivores, primates, rodents and hoofstock)

Birds (cranes, pelicans, flamingos, parrots and birds of prey)

Reptiles (tortoises and crocodiles).

In addition, there will be work with a selection of rare breed/exotic farm animals.

· To apply own personal skills and continue to develop them further.

Typical daily tasks (may include, but are not limited to):

· Preparing and distributing animal diets.

· Daily animal husbandry tasks including enclosure cleaning, enrichment, and basic daily maintenance.

· Daily recording of animal observations.

· Visitor interaction (e.g. delivering animal experiences/tours and answering general questions).

· Assisting Maintenance & Building and Front of House departments, as required.

Internship Benefits:

· Uniform will be provided (with exception of boots and trousers).

· Complimentary full membership of Ventura Wildlife Foundation provided during your internship.

· An opportunity to learn within a unique wildlife conservation centre not accessible to the general public.

· Classroom-based learning sessions.

· Internship certificate and training record upon successful completion of internship.

Essential Requirements:

· Applicants must be 18 years or older.

· Hold or be working towards an animal science related qualification OR be able to demonstrate evidence of a long-term interest in animal care e.g. animal related volunteer work.

· Previous animal-related work experience.

· Good communication skills.

· Flexible with regards to working hours and times

· Physically fit for the demands of this largely outdoor role.

· Able to work confidently as part of a team and independently.

· Reliable and able to be trusted to work under safe working practices.

How to apply:

To apply please email a copy of your latest CV and a covering letter outlining why you would benefit from completing an internship with the Foundation.

Please do not forgot to include the dates you are looking to carry out your internship with us.

Email- info@venturawildlifefoundation.org