Zoo Jobs: Head Keeper

Head Keeper

Ventura Wildlife Foundation

About us:

The Ventura Wildlife Foundation is a non-profit organisation dedicated to worldwide wildlife conservation and education. We are involved in the conservation of rare and endangered species through breeding, habitat protection, community engagement and reintroduction programmes.

Our 15-acre private conservation centre and headquarters is situated in Watford, Hertfordshire and is home to a variety of lakes and forest areas. The centre is visited by a wide variety of native wildlife and within our facility we care for many different exotic species including zebra, ostrich, kangaroo, dingo, binturong, porcupine, tamarin, marmoset, lemur, mongoose, fossa, pelican, flamingo, macaw, Galapagos tortoise and dwarf crocodile.

The Role:

An exciting position has arisen for a new Head Keeper to join our team. This central role is key to the continued growth and development of the Ventura Wildlife Foundation into a successful and unique conservation organisation.

This role is split into three key areas;

Animal care- This position is suited to an individual who is prepared to be involved in daily animal husbandry whilst ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the centre. Tasks will include overseeing stock, animal care, record keeping and the upkeep of animal enclosures. This role is responsible for allocation of daily tasks and action plans for keepers, volunteers and interns.

The Centre- This position involves taking care of the overall site and the individual geographical zones within it. The role ensures the site is kept clean, presentable, well maintained and accessible at all times.

Guest engagement- To ensure anyone visiting the site is engaged in the appropriate manner. The role involves helping to plan member’s days and other on-site events. The successful applicant will be expected to be able to carry out educational talks, tours and private animal encounters/experiences for a variety of age groups both on and off site.

The Applicant:

We are looking for a professional and confident individual who has at least 3 years’ experience working within a zoo, conservation centre, farm park or similar type organisation.

The individual must be confident and have suitable knowledge to work directly with a variety of different animal species, this includes daily husbandry, whilst being able to effectively manage a team of keepers, volunteers and interns.

Key requirements-

· Meticulous attention to detail.

· High levels of responsibility, organisation and initiative.

· Be able to work individually and as part of a team.

· Genuine passion for wildlife, education and conservation.

· Good level of physical fitness.

· Full UK/EU driving licence and be able to drive a small van as a minimum requirement.

· Prepared to work outdoors all year round.

· Ability to use Microsoft Office.

Advantageous skills-

· Understanding of ZIMS.

· Ability to create risk assessments.

The Particulars:

Average of 40 hours per week, based on a five-day week including weekends and bank holidays. A flexible and adaptive approach to working hours is essential to help meet the needs of the Foundations daily operations.

All applicants must be permitted to work within the UK and have necessary documentation.

This role includes accommodation, which encompasses a double bedroom and separate private lounge, with a shared bathroom and kitchen. The accommodation is within walking distance of the Foundation and has good connections into London.

The head keeper will report to and receive support from Director level.

Closing Date: 21^st October 2022

To apply please email a CV along with a covering letter outlining your experience and interest in wildlife conservation.

careers@venturawildlifefoundation.org

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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