Head of Animal Welfare and Development - Europe

 Head of Animal Welfare and Development - Europe

We are Merlin Magic Making and we are part of the magical Merlin Entertainments!

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the Merlin Animal Welfare and Development (MAWD) department, a division of Merlin Magic Making. MAWD is a central hub of expertise that leads SEA LIFE by driving and supporting Project Development, Animal Sourcing, High Standards, Expertise and Specialised Training.

We are currently recruiting for a Head of Europe for Animal Welfare and Development based at our offices in Weymouth. In this role you will work on the development and coordination of the essential expertise to maintain and develop world class, engaging and impactful aquarium displays and programmes.

You will maintain and improve existing displays as well as creating compelling new propositions, always ensuring project processes are realistic and completed on time and budget. You’ll also act as a facilitator, identifying and communicating specialist knowledge to support the operational and development of the region and global SEA LIFE network.

Working with the head of training and site staff to support and advise on specialist training to build local and regional technical skills. Ensuring the promotion and facilitation of production papers and presentations, develop staff and brand credibility and succession planning.

You will also work with key stakeholders to ensure the regions animal care protocols and programmes, new design specifications, meet or exceed the regional and Merlin standards, including care for life policies. Always leading the development of excellent working relationships with local, national and international organisations, representative groups and zoo & aquarium colleagues.

We are looking for the following skills and experience;

• Ideally a BSc in Marine Science
• Knowledge and experience in water chemistry saltwater and freshwater aquarium systems
• LSS – Design, component function and operation
• The understanding of fish health process
• Understanding of transport techniques for live fish of all sizes
• A creative designer of exhibits, including materials, lighting and sources of such for theming and construction
• Extensive industry experience, including experience as a Curator and Team Leader
• Experience working on projects large and small
• You’ll be solutions focused, a quick thinker and a real driver of change
• You’ll be a forward thinker with the ability to multi task and maintain a clear head when under pressure
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills at all levels
• Highly organised with excellent attention to detail

This is a Full Time, 2 year fixed term role and the hours of work are 9.00am – 5.00pm Monday to Friday; however, the need to be flexible is essential, as is the ability to travel, sometimes for extended periods, sometimes at short notice.

Alongside a competitive annual salary and paid holidays, you can look forward to enjoying a great benefits package including a Group Personal Pension Plan, Merlin Magic pass, Employee Assistance Programme, Childcare Vouchers, Life Assurance, 25% discount in our retail shops and restaurants, 40% discount online off of LEGO, and much more!

To apply and lean more please click HERE

Peter Dickinson Independent International Zoo Consultant +971 50 4787 122 | elvinhow@gmail.com | Skype: peter.dickinson48

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Aquarist

AQUARIST

The Bear Grylls Adventure

Have you got what it takes?

At The Bear Grylls Adventure guests can conquer epic mental and physical challenges inspired by the world’s greatest adventurer, Bear Grylls.

A destination for true adventure lovers, where they will be able to fly, dive, climb, learn the skills for adventure at Basecamp or take on some seriously high ropes.

We are currently recruiting for Aquarists to join our team to care for our aquatic creatures and their environment at the Bear Grylls Adventure located at the Birmingham NEC.

This is an outstanding opportunity to work in an exciting new attraction – unique in Merlin. In this role, you will report directly to the Lead Aquarist and you will work as part of a team of Aquarists to ensure both animal well-being and the proper care and maintenance of all filtration systems that are so vital to their well-being.

ABOUT YOU:

We are looking for the following skills and experience;

• You are a fun individual that loves working as part of a team
• You have experience in working in public aquariums
• If you have experience of working with small animals/reptiles this is a plus
• You have acquired over time a good understanding and working knowledge of Life Support Systems as employed on the site to ensure; correct maintenance is carried out in accordance with the manufactures recommendations and swift resolution of problems if they occur.
• You have a thorough knowledge of the Water Environment, which will allow the identification and resolution of problems with the environment for the animals
• You have a passion for all things aquatic and a commitment to conservation and animal issues
• You have the ability to deliver exceptional customer service in a fast paced environment
• You have excellent verbal and written communication skills
• You are adaptable and have the flexibility to work in a new openings environment, as per the business operational requirements

This role is Full Time, Permanent, averaging 37.5 hours per week and will include weekends and bank holidays as required.

 Alongside a competitive annual salary and 20 days holiday you can look forward to enjoying a great benefits package  including a Group Personal Pension Plan, Merlin Magic pass, Employee Assistance Programme, Childcare Vouchers, Life Assurance, 25% discount in our retail shops and restaurants, 40% discount online off of Lego, and much more!

To learn more or apply please click HERE

Peter Dickinson Independent International Zoo Consultant +971 50 4787 122 | elvinhow@gmail.com | Skype: peter.dickinson48

 To Advertise Vacancies on Zoo News Digest 
Please click
HERE

Head of Animal Welfare and Development - Europe

Head of Animal Welfare and Development - Europe

We are Merlin Magic Making and we are part of the magical Merlin Entertainments!

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the Merlin Animal Welfare and Development (MAWD) department, a division of Merlin Magic Making. MAWD is a central hub of expertise that leads SEA LIFE by driving and supporting Project Development, Animal Sourcing, High Standards, Expertise and Specialised Training.

We are currently recruiting for a Head of Europe for Animal Welfare and Development based at our offices in Weymouth. In this role you will work on the development and coordination of the essential expertise to maintain and develop world class, engaging and impactful aquarium displays and programmes.

You will maintain and improve existing displays as well as creating compelling new propositions, always ensuring project processes are realistic and completed on time and budget. You’ll also act as a facilitator, identifying and communicating specialist knowledge to support the operational and development of the region and global SEA LIFE network.

Working with the head of training and site staff to support and advise on specialist training to build local and regional technical skills. Ensuring the promotion and facilitation of production papers and presentations, develop staff and brand credibility and succession planning.

You will also work with key stakeholders to ensure the regions animal care protocols and programmes, new design specifications, meet or exceed the regional and Merlin standards, including care for life policies. Always leading the development of excellent working relationships with local, national and international organisations, representative groups and zoo & aquarium colleagues.

We are looking for the following skills and experience;

• Ideally a BSc in Marine Science
• Knowledge and experience in water chemistry saltwater and freshwater aquarium systems
• LSS – Design, component function and operation
• The understanding of fish health process
• Understanding of transport techniques for live fish of all sizes
• A creative designer of exhibits, including materials, lighting and sources of such for theming and construction
• Extensive industry experience, including experience as a Curator and Team Leader
• Experience working on projects large and small
• You’ll be solutions focused, a quick thinker and a real driver of change
• You’ll be a forward thinker with the ability to multi task and maintain a clear head when under pressure
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills at all levels
• Highly organised with excellent attention to detail

To learn more or to apply please click HERE

Peter Dickinson Independent International Zoo Consultant +971 50 4787 122 | elvinhow@gmail.com | Skype: peter.dickinson48

 To Advertise Vacancies on Zoo News Digest 
Please click
HERE

Sourcing and Logistics Coordinator

Sourcing and Logistics Coordinator

We are currently recruiting for a Sourcing and Logistics Coordinator based at our Merlin Animal Welfare and Development Department in Weymouth.

In this role you will be responsible for supporting the Animal Sourcing Manager in the development of the world leading ethical sourcing strategy which includes the development of a global animal supplier auditing program and assisting with the coordination of ground-breaking programs of positive environmental change. In addition to this you will be in charge of leading the sourcing and logistical aspects for key animal projects working in collaboration with the MAWD development team, involving global communication and keeping up to date government legislation changes.

 

We take great pride in our H&S performance so you will be trained to work within our H&S guidelines maintaining a safe place of work at all times.

We are looking for the following skills and experience;

• Background in animal sourcing and logistics
• Highly organised and self-motivated
• Strong communication skills with the ability to engage with people on all levels
• Strategic thinker
• Understanding of local, national and international government rules and regulations with regards to animal movements would be a benefit
• Experience in managing conservation projects

This is a permanent role and the hours of work are 8.30am – 5.00pm Monday to Friday (40 hours) but the need to be flexible is essential. Occasionally you will be required to work away from home.

Alongside a competitive annual salary and 20 days holiday you can look forward to enjoying a great benefits package  including a Group Personal Pension Plan, Merlin Magic pass, Employee Assistance Programme, Childcare Vouchers, Life Assurance, 25% discount in our retail shops and restaurants, 40% discount online off of Lego, and much more!

To apply please click HERE

Peter Dickinson Independent International Zoo Consultant +971 50 4787 122 | elvinhow@gmail.com | Skype: peter.dickinson48

 To Advertise Vacancies on Zoo News Digest 
Please click
HERE

Reptile Keeper

Reptile Keeper

  We are Hunstanton Sea Life Sanctuary part of the magical Merlin Entertainments!

An opportunity has arisen to join us as a Reptile Keeper (Herpetologist) working closely with the Aquarist’s in the displays team. In this role you will support all aspects of husbandry and welfare and have the ability to work with a wide variety of animals, specializing in reptiles. The list not only includes snakes, lizards, caiman, bugs and turtles but also seals, otters, penguins and a great diversity of fish and invertebrate life. By joining us at the Hunstanton SEA LIFE Sanctuary, you will help to care for the animals, as well as the life support systems that are so vital to their wellbeing. You will also play a vital role in maintaining the exhibits to the highest possible standards and ensuring that they surpass the expectations of our visitors. You will actively engage with visitors and communicate as an expert on matters arising around displays and the creatures or marine environment working with the rest of the displays teams to generate innovative ideas to enhance displays or husbandry.

Hunstanton is also one of the few marine rescue centres caring for seals that are found abandoned or injured from all over the local coastline. The rehabilitation work will form an integral part of the role along with a variety of other conservational activities.

We are looking for the following skills and experience;

•           Previous experience within a similar environment and have achieved a qualification in Animal Management, a related qualification, or equivalent.

•           A good level of understanding of natural sciences, and knowledge of the husbandry, welfare and ethical needs of our creatures.

• Excellent interpersonal, communication, listening and team working skills.

This role is full time, permanent, averaging 40 hours per week and will include weekends and bank holidays as required.

Alongside a competitive annual salary and 28 days holiday you can look forward to enjoying a great benefits package including a Group Personal Pension Plan, Merlin Magic pass, Employee Assistance Programme, Childcare Vouchers, Life Assurance, 25% discount in our retail shops and restaurants, 40% discount online off of LEGO, and much more!

Job Aquarist

Work Locations : SEA LIFE Sanctuary Hunstanton SEA LIFE Sanctuary Southern Promenade Hunstanton PE36 5BH

Closing Date (Period for Applying) - External : 07-Oct-16, 2:59:00 AM

To apply please click HERE

Peter Dickinson Independent International Zoo Consultant +971 50 4787 122 | elvinhow@gmail.com | Skype: peter.dickinson48

Advertising Vacancies on Zoo News Digest

Aquarist

Description

Behind every whoop of wonder at THORPE PARK Resort, every squeal of delight at LEGOLAND® Windsor, and every gasp of awe at Madame Tussauds is a team dedicated to making magic. Join us as an Aquarist and you’ll be at the heart of the action.

About the role

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Aquarist within the Concept & Development Animal Team, based in the Merlin Animal Welfare and Development Department in Weymouth.

This role will play a key part in supporting the development of new exhibit concepts and their role out across the global SEA LIFE group.

This is a salaried, full time position that will involve weekend working and on call commitments.

About you

The ideal candidate will be a highly motivated individual who has gained previous in animal husbandry and life support systems either through advanced studies or experience in the relevant field.

You will need to have a keen attention to detail, be innovative, adaptable and able to cope well under pressure with good time management skills.

Good communication and organisational skills are essential as is flexibility and a willingness to travel. You must also be able to relocate to Weymouth and have a full driving license is desirable.

About the benefits

Alongside a competitive salary, you can look forward to a great benefits package which includes 20 days’ holiday and, of course, a Merlin Magic pass which gives you free admission to all of our attractions worldwide. Perhaps the biggest benefits of joining us, however, are the outstanding opportunities for career development.

About us

We’re a place that makes magic. Magic that gives millions of people fun, thrills and memorable experiences. We’re the thinkers, dreamers, doers and achievers whose job it is to create and deliver world-class new attractions, hotels and major investment projects, as well as manage the extensive real estate assets of one of the most exciting companies in the world. Welcome to Merlin Magic Making, the creative heart of Merlin Entertainments plc.

Learn more HERE

Animal Facilities Coordinator

Animal Facilities Coordinator

Description

Behind every whoop of wonder at THORPE PARK Resort, every squeal of delight at LEGOLAND® Windsor, and every gasp of awe at Madame Tussauds is a team dedicated to making magic. Join us as A Displays Curator and you’ll be at the heart of the action.

About the role

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Animal Facilities Coordinator within the Concept & Development Animal Team, based in the Merlin Animal Welfare and Development Department in Weymouth.

This role will play a key part in the development of new exhibit concepts and the implementation of new projects across the global SEA LIFE group.

This role will be acutely involved from conception to acquisition, implementation and roll out of the new features and exhibits.

This is a salaried, full time position that will involve weekend working and on call commitments.

About you

The ideal candidate will be a highly motivated individual who has previous experience working in public aquariums and supervising the displays and displays team.

A high level of expertise in all aspects of animal husbandry and life support systems.

Proven experience and ability to design and implement world class exhibits and displays. 

You will need to have a strong attention to detail, be innovative, adaptable and flexible. You will need to cope well under pressure with excellent time management skills.

An ability to communicate well and develop relationships at all levels.

You must also be able to relocate to Weymouth and be willing to travel.

About the benefits

Alongside a competitive salary, you can look forward to a great benefits package which includes 20 days’ holiday and, of course, a Merlin Magic pass which gives you free admission to all of our attractions worldwide. Perhaps the biggest benefits of joining us, however, are the outstanding opportunities for career development.

Learn more HERE

Displays Curator of Transport

Displays Curator of Transport

The Displays Developments Department supports the 32 Public aquaria throughout the Merlin estate.

The department is responsible for the breeding, quarantine and transport of animals.
It also develops new sites, life support and innovative displays.

The Role: A fantastic opportunity for a full-time Display Curator position has evolved at Weymouth Displays Developments Department.
The main responsibility will be ensuring the successful transport of animals around the group.
This will include the innovation and research of new transport methods.
The role will involve international travel and representing DDD at external conferences.
A major part of the role will be fulfilling the sites stock requests.
This is a very varied role, one week you may be moving a hammerhead shark to Birmingham, the next week draining an ocean tank in Berlin.
You will also work in all the DDD quarantine sections.
The role requires being on call and working weekends on a rota basis.

The Person: The successful applicant must be able to demonstrate a high level of expertise in all aspects of creature husbandry and a good knowledge of plant and equipment.
In addition to this you will need, proven supervisory skills in aquaria with at least 12 months experience at Senior Aquarist/ Supervisor level and a high level of competence with marine fish and invertebrates.
Experience of transporting animals and an understanding of the different methods that can be used is essential.
Good communication and organisational skills, flexibility with working hours, excellent health and a full clean driving licence are essential, as is the ability and wish to relocate to Weymouth.
A 7.5 tonne licence is desirable but not essential.
A specialist training induction will be arranged around the needs of the individual.
Most of all we need a highly motivated and passionate individual who works well in a team.

Please apply with a CV and covering letter to:
Chris Brown
Curator Manager
Displays Developments
Lodmoor Country Park
Weymouth, Dorset, DT4 7SX.
Tel: 0044 (0)1305 761465
Fax:- 0044 (0)1305 782388
Email: chris.brown@merlinentertainments.biz
The closing date for this opportunity is the 30th April 2010.

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