Animal Keeper

Welsh Mountain Zoo – National Zoological Society of Wales

Wales – Closing date for applications: 10th Feb 2026

Salary: Starting at £26,171.00 (depending on experience)

Animal Keeper

Welsh Mountain Zoo, Colwyn Bay

Full-time

Salary: Starting at £26,171.00 per annum (depending on experience)

Working at the Welsh Mountain Zoo is more than just a job – it’s an opportunity to be part of a committed, expert team united by a shared passion: Bringing Conservation to Life. And there’s nowhere better to do that than in the breathtaking surroundings of North Wales.

For over 60 years, we’ve been caring for rare and endangered animal and plant species, engaging the public, and inspiring the next generation of conservationists. Now, as we enter an exciting period of growth and investment in our zoo, we’re looking for a skilled and motivated Cover Keeper with an interest in marine mammals, animal training and presentations.

You’ll work closely with our Head of Animals and Animal Team Leaders to ensure the highest standards of animal care and team coordination.

What you’ll bring

• Practical experience working with a wide range of species in a zoo or wildlife park setting
• Strong understanding of science- and evidence-based husbandry, behaviour, enrichment, breeding, and welfare
• Confidence in monitoring animal health and behaviour, including accurate record keeping
• Knowledge and practical experience of positive reinforcement training
• Experience delivering engaging animal talks and demonstrations
• Working towards or holding a relevant qualification (e.g., Diploma or higher in Animal Management)
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work as part of a team and unsupervised when required
• Physically able to carry out demanding tasks in all weather conditions
• Working towards/able to deploy firearms in emergency situations
• Commitment to providing excellent customer service

Key responsibilities

• Daily husbandry, feeding, and enrichment for a variety of exotic species
• Safe movement, catching, and restraint of animals
• Assisting with treatment and medication
• Cleaning and maintaining habitats to promote natural behaviours and breeding
• Monitoring and recording animal health and behaviour
• Delivering educational talks and demonstrations
• Positive reinforcement training with Californian sea lions and birds of prey
• Maintaining Life Support Systems for sea lion and penguin enclosures
• Supporting wider zoo operations as needed
• Working on a 7-day rota including weekends, bank holidays, and late lock-ups
• Completing all mandatory training and CPD

>Ensuring compliance with policies (Animal Welfare, GDPR, Health & Safety, etc.)

Benefits

• Working in one of the most beautiful visitor attractions in North Wales with amazing animals and a great team
• Training and development opportunities
• Free family admission to the Zoo
• Free admission to other zoos
• Free uniform and staff parking
• Employee Assistance & Wellbeing Programme
• Discounts in food outlets and gift shops
• Holiday scheme increasing with service (up to 33 days*)
• Company sick pay*
• Pension scheme*
• 10% off Conwy Gym Membership
• *After qualifying service

Apply now and help us Bring Conservation to Life

If you’re passionate about animal welfare and conservation, looking to take your next step, and excited to contribute to the future of a growing zoo, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply for this job

To apply: Send an expression of interest (max 2 pages) and your CV to Hannah Slaney, Head of Animals. Your expression of interest should explain your motivation and how you meet the requirements set out in this advert.

Closing date: 10th February 2026