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- Tasks: Join us as an Elephant Keeper, caring for Asian elephants and enhancing their welfare.
- Company: Chester Zoo is a leading conservation charity and award-winning visitor attraction.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days of annual leave, staff zoo passes, and discounts on various services.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team dedicated to preventing extinction and making a real impact.
- Qualifications: A degree in zoological science or equivalent experience with large mammals is required.
- Other info: Position starts on 25th August 2025; apply early as we hire on a rolling basis.
The predicted salary is between 22700 - 32700 £ per year.
Elephant Keeper – Permanent position
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. #J-18808-Ljbffr
Keeper - Elephants employer: Chester Zoo
Contact Detail:
Chester Zoo Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Keeper - Elephants
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Chester Zoo's conservation efforts and their approach to animal welfare. Understanding their mission and values will help you align your passion for wildlife with their goals during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Gain hands-on experience with large mammals, particularly elephants, if you haven't already. Volunteering or interning at a zoo or wildlife sanctuary can provide you with valuable insights and practical skills that will make you stand out as a candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the zoological field. Attend relevant workshops, seminars, or conferences where you can meet current zoo staff or other keepers. Building these connections can provide you with insider knowledge and potentially lead to recommendations.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with operant conditioning and how you've created positive environments for animals in past roles. Being able to articulate specific examples will demonstrate your expertise and commitment to animal welfare.
We think you need these skills to ace Keeper - Elephants
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the specific requirements and responsibilities of the Elephant Keeper position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with their needs.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasise your experience in caring for large mammals, particularly elephants, giraffes, or rhinos. Provide specific examples of your previous roles and how they relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Skills: Demonstrate your observational skills and attention to detail in your application. Mention any experience with operant conditioning and maintaining safe working practices, as these are crucial for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for animal care and conservation. Explain why you want to work at Chester Zoo specifically and how you can contribute to their mission of preventing extinction.
How to prepare for a job interview at Chester Zoo
✨Show Your Passion for Conservation
Chester Zoo is all about conservation and animal welfare, so make sure to express your genuine passion for these topics during the interview. Share any relevant experiences or projects you've been involved in that demonstrate your commitment to wildlife conservation.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous experience with large mammals, particularly elephants, giraffes, or rhinos. Provide specific examples of how you've cared for these animals and any techniques you've used to create positive environments for them.
✨Demonstrate Your Observational Skills
Outstanding observational skills are crucial for this role. During the interview, be ready to talk about how you’ve used these skills in past positions. You might even want to mention a time when your attention to detail made a significant difference in an animal's care.
✨Familiarise Yourself with ZIMS Software
While not mandatory, familiarity with ZIMS software can give you an edge. If you have experience using similar software or managing animal records, be sure to mention it. If you don’t, consider doing a bit of research on it before the interview to show your willingness to learn.
