Animal Keeper

Northumberland Zoo

North East England

Closing date for applications is: 22nd Feb 2026

Northumberland Zoo is a major animal attraction and wildlife conservation centre in the Northeast of England. With new exhibits added over recent years, we are expanding our species range, including several new species in 2026. We are a family‑run, not‑for‑profit zoo seeking a team player who shares our Zoo ethos and mission in conservation, education & sustainability to inspire positive change.

Overview

We have an exciting opportunity for an Animal Keeper to join our team. The animal department is currently split into 7 sections and will soon expand with new species. This role will work across multiple sections, dependent on experience, to maintain high standards of animal husbandry, enrichment & training, exhibit development and visitor education.

Main Duties & Job Responsibilities

• Day‑to‑day husbandry routines for various species, including health & welfare monitoring
• Researching & implementing behavioural & environmental enrichment opportunities
• Refurbishing & maintaining exhibits with species‑specific suitability to promote natural behaviour & high‑quality presentation
• Strict adherence to risk assessments, bio‑security & safe working practices
• Taking ownership of the presentation of the wider zoo site by maintaining high standards with a positive attitude & professional manner
• Carrying out animal experiences, talks & displays and assisting the education department in planning & delivering education sessions to school groups & visitors, ensuring the Zoo’s mission messages are delivered; may also include Zoo events

Skills & Experience

• At least 2 years professional zoo work experience working with animals in a zoo environment
• Qualified in an appropriate captive wild animal husbandry, biological or conservation discipline
• High animal welfare standards with regards to care & daily husbandry routines
• Experience implementing animal enrichment programmes with behavioural output in mind
• Great observational skills when working with the animals; understanding animal behaviour & keeping accurate welfare records
• Confident in presenting engaging, educational messages to audiences

General

• Full driver’s licence & access to vehicle required due to rural setting of Zoo
• Great team working & communication skills; adaptability to suit the needs of the role
• Able to work effectively & with minimum supervision within a timely manner
• Strong interpersonal skills & confident to interact with the public
• Physically fit & able to work outdoors in all weathers
• Take responsibility for own personal development, seeking out opportunities to learn new skills

Salary & Hours

• £12.52 per hour (subject to pay increase in April)
• 40 hrs per week across 5 days, includes weekends & bank holidays
• 28 days holiday per annum (includes Bank Holidays), increasing by 1 day each year after 12 months employment to a maximum of 33 days
• Enrolment in pension scheme with employer contributions of 3%
• £5 daily food allowance in the Zoo café & discount in Zoo shop
• Complimentary Zoo admission tickets for family & friends