Experienced Animal Keeper - Hoofstock Section

Salary commensurate with experience + Excellent Benefits

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

Howletts Wild Animal Park is a world class wildlife park supporting the international conservation charity The Aspinall Foundation, which runs a number of overseas conservation projects. We are home to a collection of rare and endangered Hoofstock, including Black Rhino, Roan Antelope and Bongo Antelope – all of which we have reintroduction projects for. Other species on the section include Red River Hog, Giant Anteater, Asian deer and Capybara.

Howletts Wild Animal Park in Canterbury, Kent is recruiting for the position of Experienced Hoofstock Keeper, working 5 days per week 8am – 5pm.

The main duties will involve:

· Observing the behaviour, health and security of animals and reporting any problems

· Ensuring the correct diets are prepared and distributed

· Cleaning and maintaining enclosures

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

· Maintaining courteous and helpful relations with visitors

· Assisting with the movement and transport of animals

· Maintaining good and detailed communication at all levels, including veterinary and other animal collections

· Contributing to the enrichment of the species on the section

· Representing the parks at seminars and conferences.

· Supervision and training of less experienced staff and supervision of volunteers and interns

· Section management on occasion.

The ideal candidate will have significant experience (1 year minimum) with ungulates in a mainstream zoological collection, an awareness of current conservation issues and a genuine passion for animal welfare. They must possess excellent all-round animal husbandry skills and be enthusiastic in contributing to the enrichment of the Hoofstock species around the park. A relevant animal management qualification or similar would be advantageous. You must hold a full valid driving licence, and experience of driving agricultural vehicle is an advantage.

A practical and proactive approach is required, coupled with good organisation, good written and verbal communication skills, as well as an overall understanding of the role of the modern animal collection is essential. This is a physically demanding job and duties will include heavy lifting, as well as enclosure maintenance and browse cutting.

Working times are 40 hours per week, five days out of seven, with a 1-hour unpaid lunch break. This can include weekends and bank holidays. The successful candidate will have a genuinely flexible approach to working hours. A reliable mode of transport is recommended due to our remote location.