At a Glance
- Tasks: Care for and manage a variety of animals in a wildlife park setting.
- Company: Join Askham Bryan College, a leading land-based college with a focus on conservation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 35 days annual leave, a generous pension scheme, and free parking.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in animal welfare and conservation while working with amazing species.
- Qualifications: Level 3 education in an animal-related subject; degree preferred.
The predicted salary is between 24767 - 24767 £ per year.
Salary: SP17 £24,767 per annum
Contractual hours: 37
Basis: Full Time
Package: 35 Days Annual Leave Plus Bank Holidays / Generous Pension Scheme / Free Parking / Various Staff Benefits
About the role:
Due to exciting new developments, we currently have an opportunity for a Wildlife Park Animal Keeper (based in the Zoo section) to join our Animal Sciences and Conservation Department here at our York campus. Askham Bryan Wildlife Park is a BIAZA Accredited Zoo, consisting of over 100 species, with a dedication to conservation, welfare, education and research.
We are looking for a highly motivated individual who can work with others and is responsible, passionate and knowledgeable about the overall animal management sector and has an enthusiastic approach to animal husbandry and welfare. The candidate will be responsible for the daily care, welfare, and presentation of the Wildlife Park Zoo facilities at Askham Bryan College. This role supports high standards of animal husbandry, conservation and education.
Reporting to the Animal Sciences and Conservation Manager, Deputy Manager and Zoo Teaching Lead Keeper, responsibilities include:
- The day-to-day care and management of the Zoo animal section
- General cleaning
- Feeding
- Maintenance
- Record keeping
We are especially interested in someone with a focus on Mammals and Birds.
Applicants should be educated to at least a level 3 in an animal related subject, and a degree in an animal related subject would be advantageous.
Interviews: TBC
Start Date: The College operates 2 starter/induction days per month to welcome and onboard new members. These are usually the first Monday and third Wednesday of each month (unless there is a bank holiday).
About the College:
Askham Bryan College is a specialist land-based college based across the North of England with centres in York, Middlesbrough, Saltaire, Wakefield and Gateshead. We offer a wide-ranging curriculum to our Further Education students, including Agriculture, Horticulture, Animal Management, Countryside and the Environment, Engineering, Equine, Floristry, Motorsport, Outdoor Adventure Sport, Sports Development, Coaching and Fitness, Uniformed Public Services and Veterinary Nursing.
Benefits of working with Askham Bryan College:
- On-site facilities including a fully functional farm, equine centre, wildlife park and VR suite
- Beautiful grounds for outdoor learning, meetings and well-being walks
- Generous pension scheme with generous employer contributions
- Options for flexible working arrangements (role dependent)
- On-site catering including a canteen and shop
- Highly discounted gym membership at the on-site gym
- Free car parking and cycle to work scheme
- Continuous support from our Recruitment and Employee Lifecycle Partner
- Enhanced sick pay and compassionate leave scheme
- Enhanced maternity/adoption pay
Safeguarding Statement:
The College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff, volunteers and partners to share this commitment. The Governors and Staff at Askham Bryan College regard each learner as a unique individual and therefore seek to support learner development in ways which will foster security, confidence and independence.
Specific measures relating to pre-employment checks:
- We may undertake online searches on internet activity as part of our pre-recruitment checks.
- We ask applicants for details of any convictions and cautions, regardless of whether these have been deemed as “spent”. It is a condition of employment that applicants provide these details.
- We undertake Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Checks for prospective employees.
Please note that it is an offence to apply for a regulated role if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity involving children or vulnerable adults.
Animal Keeper - Zoo employer: Askham Bryan College
Askham Bryan College is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises conservation, education, and animal welfare. With generous benefits including 35 days of annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and opportunities for professional growth within a BIAZA Accredited Zoo, employees can thrive in a supportive environment dedicated to their development and well-being. Located in the picturesque grounds of York, staff enjoy access to beautiful outdoor spaces and on-site facilities that enhance both work and leisure.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Animal Keeper - Zoo
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the zoo and its animals! Before your interview, spend some time researching Askham Bryan Wildlife Park. Familiarise yourself with the species they have and their conservation efforts. This shows your passion and commitment to animal welfare.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on LinkedIn or at local events. They can provide insider tips about the role and the team, which can give you an edge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for hands-on assessments! As an Animal Keeper, you might be tested on your practical skills. Brush up on your animal husbandry techniques and be ready to demonstrate your knowledge during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Askham Bryan College. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Animal Keeper - Zoo
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for animal care shine through! We want to see your genuine love for animals and conservation, so share any relevant experiences or stories that highlight your passion.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Animal Keeper role. Highlight your qualifications, especially if you have a level 3 or degree in an animal-related subject. We’re looking for specific skills and experiences that match what we do at Askham Bryan College.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read, so make sure to organise your thoughts logically.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our college there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Askham Bryan College
✨Know Your Animals
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the species you'll be working with, especially mammals and birds. Familiarise yourself with their behaviours, diets, and habitats. This will not only impress your interviewers but also show your genuine passion for animal husbandry.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
During the interview, let your passion for animal care shine through. Share personal experiences or stories that highlight your dedication to animal welfare and conservation. A positive attitude can make a huge difference in how you're perceived.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions that assess your practical skills and problem-solving abilities. Think about scenarios you might face as an Animal Keeper and how you would handle them. Being able to demonstrate your critical thinking in real-life situations will set you apart.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t hesitate to ask questions about the role, team dynamics, or conservation efforts at the zoo. This shows that you’re not just interested in the job, but also in contributing to the organisation's mission and values.
