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- Tasks: Care for and manage a breeding group of Asian elephants at Chester Zoo.
- Company: Chester Zoo is a leading conservation charity and award-winning visitor attraction.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days annual leave, discounted gym membership, and a staff pass for zoo visits.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team dedicated to preventing extinction and making a real impact on wildlife conservation.
- Qualifications: HND or degree in zoological science and experience with large mammals required.
- Other info: Position starts on 25th August 2025; apply early as interviews are ongoing.
The predicted salary is between 22000 - 30000 £ per year.
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Chester Zoo
North West Closing date for applications is: 16th Jul 2025
Contact: AlexMcGinn (recruitment@chesterzoo.org) Sector: Education Type: Paid Contract type: Full-time Salary: £27,307
We are Chester Zoo, and for over 90 years we’ve been a leading conservation and education charity, and an amazing, award-winning visitor attraction.
We’re also a team of passionate, talented, enthusiastic and expert people, doing everything we can to prevent extinction, from caring for animals to discovering new conservation ideas, and giving our visitors an inspirational day out.
We work hard because we love animals, we care about nature, we love Chester Zoo and despite all the recent challenges thrown at us, we still want to be the best zoo in the world! If you think you can help us to achieve that, then we’d love to hear from you.
We currently have an exciting opportunity for a permanent keeper to join us on the Elephant section. For the right candidate, this post offers a fantastic opportunity to work with a breeding group of Asian elephants, leading in the development of science and welfare for the species.
Our Requirements
- A HND or degree level qualification in a zoological related science or equivalent experience
- Proven experience in the care and management of large mammal species that may include Giraffe, Rhinos and Elephants, in a zoo or safari park setting, as well as the highest standards of exhibitory
- Outstanding observational skills with excellent attention to detail
- Experience creating positive environments for animals
- Experience of working within strict Safe Working Practices
- Experience of operant conditioning in a zoo setting
Competency in the use of computers and basic software packages, including ZIMS software, would be advantageous for this role in order to maintain accurate records.
The Package
- Permanent contract
- 40 hours per week, worked 10 days out of 14, including weekends and Bank Holidays as rostered.
- Salary of £27,307 per annum
- 33 days annual leave per year
- Staff pass so you can visit the zoo during your time off plus a number of complimentary tickets for your family and friends
- Employee assistance programme
- Discounted gym membership
- Discounts on cinema tickets, restaurants, high street shops and more via Perks
- Pension scheme with generous employer contributions of up to 9%
- Excellent training and career progression opportunities
We anticipate the position starting on 25th August 2025 for the successful candidate.
Shortlisting of applications and interviews for the role will take place while the advert is live; the advert will close once the successful candidate is found. Candidates are therefore encouraged to submit applications as soon as possible.
Closing date for applications is 16 July 2025
More About Us
We’re not just an amazing, award-winning visitor attraction that’s home to 20,000 incredible animals. We’re not just the UK’s most popular zoo. We’re a major wildlife charity that’s committed to the recovery of endangered species, globally. And, as the world faces an extinction crisis, we’re making a hugely significant contribution to conservation at a time when it’s needed most. We are Chester Zoo and we prevent extinction.
Apply For This Job
Apply online via Chester Zoo | Jobs | Search here for your perfect career – Job Information | Apply for Keeper – Elephants
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Keeper - Elephants employer: British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
Contact Detail:
British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Keeper - Elephants
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Chester Zoo's mission and values. Understanding their commitment to conservation and education will help you align your passion for animal care with their goals during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Gain hands-on experience with large mammals, especially elephants, if possible. Volunteering or interning at local zoos or wildlife sanctuaries can provide valuable insights and skills that will make you stand out.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the zoological field. Attend workshops, seminars, or events related to animal care and conservation to meet people who can offer advice or even refer you to job openings.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for potential interview questions by researching common practices in elephant care and management. Being knowledgeable about operant conditioning and safe working practices will demonstrate your expertise and readiness for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Keeper - Elephants
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in animal care, particularly with large mammals like elephants. Include any specific qualifications or training that align with the job requirements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for wildlife conservation and your commitment to animal welfare. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your skills in creating positive environments for animals.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, emphasise your observational skills, attention to detail, and experience with operant conditioning. If you have used ZIMS software, be sure to mention this as it is advantageous for the role.
Show Enthusiasm for the Role: Express your enthusiasm for working at Chester Zoo and your desire to contribute to their mission of preventing extinction. This can set you apart from other candidates who may not convey the same level of passion.
How to prepare for a job interview at British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA)
✨Show Your Passion for Conservation
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for wildlife conservation and animal welfare during the interview. Share any relevant experiences or projects that demonstrate your commitment to these values, as Chester Zoo is dedicated to preventing extinction.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Discuss your previous experience with large mammals, particularly elephants, giraffes, or rhinos. Be specific about your roles and responsibilities in those positions, and how they relate to the requirements of the Keeper - Elephants role.
✨Demonstrate Observational Skills
Prepare to discuss examples of how you've used your observational skills in past roles. This could include noting animal behaviour, health issues, or environmental changes. Being able to articulate these experiences will show your attention to detail.
✨Familiarise Yourself with ZIMS Software
If you have experience with ZIMS or similar software, be ready to talk about it. If not, do a bit of research on its functionalities. Showing that you're proactive about learning new tools can set you apart from other candidates.
