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- Tasks: Join our Hoofstock team to care for amazing animals like zebras and giraffes.
- Company: Be part of Merlin Entertainments, a leader in adventure and entertainment.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28 days holiday, annual passes, discounts, and ongoing training opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a difference in animal care while engaging with guests and promoting conservation.
- Qualifications: Animal-based qualification and at least 1 year of zoo experience required.
- Other info: This is a full-time, entry-level position with a fixed term until May 2026.
The predicted salary is between 26000 - 26000 £ per year.
Here at Chessington World of Adventures we are recruiting for a Zoo Keeper to join our Hoofstock team, on a fixed term contract until May 2026. The successful candidate will work alongside the rest of the Hoofstock Team and take an active role in the day-to-day running of the collection including delivery of the highest standards of animal husbandry required for species such as zebra, giraffe, rhino and a number of domestic species such as donkey, goat and sheep.
Other duties will include planning, evaluating and executing environmental enrichment for the animals under your care and delivering first-class and memorable experiences to our guests through educational talks and experiences. You will also be required to use positive reinforcement to train different species for a variety of husbandry behaviours. You will be part of a team that creates the most stimulating environment possible – for both animals and guests. You will ensure the health and safety of yourself, colleagues and our guests is your number one priority at all times. And since we’re big on conservation, education and research, you’ll have a big part to play in that too!
You will be keen to support other areas within our Zoo, which will in turn benefit your own personal development.
Qualifications & ExperienceOur ideal candidate will have completed an animal-based qualification, with a minimum of 1 year of relevant experience working in a Zoo environment or equivalent. You will be a clear and confident speaker, able to engage with the public, delivering fun and educational presentations and more importantly an alert listener, willing to learn and develop. You will have passion and excitement for your chosen field, with a keen drive to develop your career as an animal keeper.
Benefits- An annual salary of £26,000
- 28 days holiday (including bank holidays)
- ‘Enjoy the Ride’ Merlin Annual Passes - 6 in total per year, 1 for you, plus 5 to gift to loved ones!
- Merlin Magic Pass - 20 free tickets for you, your family and friends to enjoy all of our Merlin Attractions across the world rising to 40 after a year’s service
- Company bonus
- Private pension scheme
- 40% discount online off LEGO
- 25% discount in our on-site retail shops and restaurants
- Ongoing training and development opportunities
- Plus, many more...
Zoo Keeper - Hoofstock (FTC) employer: Merlin Entertainments
Contact Detail:
Merlin Entertainments Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Zoo Keeper - Hoofstock (FTC)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific species you'll be working with, such as zebras and giraffes. Understanding their behaviours and needs will not only impress during interviews but also show your genuine passion for animal care.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with current zoo keepers or professionals in the field through social media or local events. Networking can provide valuable insights into the role and may even lead to a referral, increasing your chances of landing the job.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to demonstrate your public speaking skills. Since the role involves delivering educational talks, practice engaging presentations about animal care or conservation topics to showcase your ability to connect with guests.
✨Tip Number 4
Highlight any experience you have with environmental enrichment activities. Be ready to discuss how you've previously created stimulating environments for animals, as this is a key aspect of the role and shows your proactive approach to animal welfare.
We think you need these skills to ace Zoo Keeper - Hoofstock (FTC)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Zoo Keeper for Hoofstock. Familiarise yourself with the specific species you'll be working with and the skills required for animal husbandry.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight your relevant experience in a zoo environment or similar roles. Emphasise any animal-based qualifications and specific experiences that relate to hoofstock care, training, and public engagement.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for animal care and conservation. Mention your enthusiasm for engaging with the public and any relevant experiences that demonstrate your ability to deliver educational talks.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial in a role focused on animal welfare and guest experiences.
How to prepare for a job interview at Merlin Entertainments
✨Show Your Passion for Animal Care
Make sure to express your genuine enthusiasm for working with animals, especially hoofstock. Share any relevant experiences or stories that highlight your dedication to animal welfare and conservation.
✨Prepare for Educational Presentations
Since engaging with the public is a key part of the role, practice delivering fun and informative talks about the animals you'll be caring for. Think about how you can make these presentations interactive and memorable.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
Emphasise your ability to work well within a team. Discuss past experiences where you collaborated with others to achieve common goals, particularly in a zoo or animal care setting.
✨Highlight Your Learning Mindset
Be ready to discuss how you approach learning and development. Mention any additional training or qualifications you are pursuing, and show your willingness to support other areas within the zoo to enhance your skills.
