Zoo Jobs: Head of Farm and Wildlife

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: Head of Farm and Wildlife

Department: Animal Department

Reporting to: Director, Management Team

Responsible for: Keepers, Trainee Keepers, Volunteers, Work Experience, Keeper for a Day and Animal Encounter Participants

Date Prepared: August 2022

About Hogshaw farm & Wildlife park:

Hogshaw Farm & Wildlife Park (formerly Green Dragon Eco Farm) is an open farm and wildlife park. We pride ourselves on being a fun day out with a focus on conservation, education and sustainability. The business is under new management and we are seeking an experienced professional with a proven track record in the animal industry (at least 5 years and DMZAA or equivalent qualification) who can help manage and grow our animal offering, centred on European wildlife and rare breed UK livestock.

Main function of job:

Lead and manage the farm and wildlife team, including staff training, maintenance of high-quality standards and assist with collection planning. Ensure the efficient running of the animal department including standard husbandry duties (cleaning feeding, upholding the five freedoms as described by the SSSMZP*). Continue to improve and enhance animal exhibits, maintaining a friendly and supportive working environment, and contributing to the general upkeep of the park. The successful applicant will be well organised and a self-starter.

Main Duties:

· Organise and manage the farm and wildlife team

· Daily monitoring and husbandry (nutrition, cleaning, health) of the animals

· Preparing specialised diets, in line with recommended values and Zootrition software

· Keeping accurate daily records of animal behaviour, using ZIMs software

· Familiarity with zoo licensing and preparation for any inspections

· Ensuring effective staff training

· Presenting friendly, entertaining and informative talks to both public and school groups

· Assisting with the Keeper for a Day and Farmer for a Day animal encounter schemes

· Upholding the company’s Health and Safety policies and procedures

· Maintaining the upkeep of animal exhibits and helping to design new ones

· Any other duties around the park as may be required by management

General:

Full-time position. The hours of work will normally be 45 hours per week, from 8am to 5.30pm in the summer, this may vary during the shorter winter daylight hours. Occasionally, some out of hours work may be necessary, and will usually be paid as overtime., and will be consecutive, working five days on, two off.

Salary:

Circa £25,000

*Secretary of States Standards of Modern Zoo Practice

Please send Full CV and covering letter to

hannah@hogshawfarm.co.uk

PLEASE CONSIDER A DONATION FOR POSTING OUT YOUR VACANCY.

It will be greatly appreciated as I am semi retired and have had no regular income for over two years.

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